The United States, with its vast economy, diverse industries, and wealth of opportunities, remains an attractive destination for professionals looking to advance their careers. Whether you’re relocating to join a growing multinational firm or expanding your own company’s presence, early preparation is key. Understanding the US’s legal, tax, healthcare, and financial systems will help you settle in smoothly and make the most of your new environment.

Moving to the US involves addressing a range of practical matters. From obtaining the correct work visa to navigating a multi-layered tax structure, and from finding suitable healthcare coverage to opening a local bank account, each step benefits from informed guidance. An Employer of Record in the US specialises in supporting foreign companies and incoming professionals by managing these aspects, enabling you to focus on your career and integrating into American life.

Work permits and immigration

The US requires work authorization for foreign nationals who intend to be employed within its borders. Non-US citizens typically need a work visa sponsored by their employer or a related entity. Common categories include the H-1B (for skilled professionals), L-1 (for intra-company transfers), and E-series visas (for investors or certain treaty traders), among others.

Visa availability, quotas, and eligibility criteria can vary, so starting the application process well in advance is essential. Consulting with an immigration attorney or a knowledgeable advisor can help you select the right visa category and ensure that all required documentation is in order. A timely and well-prepared application can greatly influence whether you begin your new role on schedule.

I recall speaking with a Spanish marketing professional who landed a job at a New York-based tech firm. She felt overwhelmed by visa paperwork and deadlines, unsure which documents to submit first. Fortunately, her employer had partnered with an EOR that not only managed payroll and HR tasks but also guided her through each stage of the visa process. She told me how reassuring it was to have the EOR’s step-by-step instructions, timely reminders, and dedicated support. When she finally boarded the plane with her visa in hand, she was grateful that the EOR had helped her navigate the maze of immigration requirements, letting her focus on the excitement of starting a new role in a new country.

Tax considerations

The US tax system involves federal, state, and sometimes local taxes, creating a complex environment for new arrivals. While federal income tax applies nationwide, state tax rates differ significantly, and some states have no income tax at all. Most employees have income tax and payroll deductions withheld directly from their paychecks, simplifying certain aspects of compliance.

Key points to keep in mind include:

• Multiple tax levels: You may owe taxes to the federal government, your state of residence, and possibly local municipalities.
• Progressive tax rates: Higher earners typically pay a greater percentage of their income in federal taxes.
• Withholding and payroll deductions: Employers generally withhold the necessary amounts each pay period.
• Residency and foreign income considerations: Your US tax obligations depend partly on your residency status. If you have overseas assets or income, double taxation treaties and foreign tax credits may apply.

If you’re new to the US, familiarising yourself with tax rates, deduction rules, and filing deadlines is wise. Consulting a US tax advisor can clarify how local and federal regulations shape your overall tax position, ensuring you remain compliant from your first payday. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website is a valuable resource for official guidance on US taxes.

Social security and insurance

Unlike many countries with public healthcare systems, the US relies on a combination of private and public coverage. Many employees receive health insurance through their employer, often sharing premium costs. The quality, scope, and price of employer-sponsored plans can vary widely. In some cases, you may need to pay additional out-of-pocket expenses, such as deductibles and co-payments, before insurance fully covers certain treatments.

It’s important to review your employer’s health insurance offerings closely and consider whether you’ll need supplementary coverage. Some newcomers find it beneficial to compare plans, look into networks of doctors and hospitals, and understand the cost-sharing structure before choosing the best option for their needs. US healthcare can be expensive, so selecting the right plan and understanding its terms helps you avoid financial surprises.

A Belgian friend who joined a Californian startup once described feeling lost among the health plan options. Was a high-deductible plan worth it? Did he need dental coverage right away? His company’s EOR partner provided detailed comparisons, highlighting which plans other expats in similar roles had chosen and why. He found this guidance invaluable—almost like having a personal advisor. With the EOR’s support, he selected a plan that balanced his budget with the care he needed. Looking back, he said the EOR’s insights saved him from guesswork, allowing him to settle on a health plan confidently instead of confused.

Housing and residency considerations

The US housing market varies greatly from one city or region to another. Rental costs, neighbourhood characteristics, and transportation options differ significantly between, say, a flat in New York City and a suburban home in Texas. Many expats start with short-term housing arrangements or serviced apartments, giving them time to explore different areas and find a place that suits their lifestyle and commute requirements.

Landlords in the US often request a security deposit, references, and proof of employment or income. Having these documents ready can accelerate the rental process. Taking time to research neighbourhoods, school districts (if you have a family), and commute times can lead to a more satisfying housing decision down the line.

Opening a US bank account

A US bank account is essential for receiving your salary, handling routine expenses, and paying bills. Most banks require proof of identity (such as a passport), proof of address, and potentially employment verification. Some newcomers encounter initial hurdles when they lack local credit history or proof of residency, but a letter from your employer or temporary accommodation receipts can often help.

Once established, a US bank account allows you to set up direct deposit for your salary, schedule automatic bill payments, and possibly secure a credit card. Many banks offer online and mobile banking, simplifying money management and budgeting during your transition period.

A German IT consultant I know recounted how he struggled to open a US bank account without a local credit history. Initially, he worried he’d be stuck using a foreign card and paying high fees. However, the EOR supporting his employer stepped in, providing a letter confirming his employment, suggesting banks known for welcoming newcomers and advising him on which documents to bring. He said it felt as if the EOR had cleared a path through the red tape. After a short visit to the recommended bank with all the right paperwork, he had his account set up. Having the EOR’s guidance transformed a daunting task into a straightforward step in settling into his new life.

Simplifying your move with an Employer of Record in the US

Relocating to the US can feel overwhelming, given the complexity of immigration rules, tax structures, healthcare systems, and financial procedures. An Employer of Record in the US can make the process more manageable by handling HR and payroll tasks, ensuring that employment contracts comply with American laws, that taxes and payroll deductions are accurately processed, and that visa and work permit requirements are fulfilled.

This professional guidance not only prevents legal and administrative pitfalls but also frees you to focus on building your career, adjusting to your workplace culture, and exploring your new surroundings. With the support of an Employer of Record in the USA, you can settle into your role in the new country confidently, knowing that your employment-related details are under expert supervision.

Embracing the challenges and opportunities of life in the United States, you can then direct your efforts toward making the most of your new professional and personal environment—connecting with colleagues, discovering your neighbourhood, and progressing along your career path. Get in touch to learn how Employer of Record can simplify your relocation to the USA.