Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Dallas

What is special or unique about your city?

Dallas, Fort Worth and the surrounding cities are collectively known as "The Metroplex" -- one of the largest metropolitan centers in the United States. Over five million people reside in this area. If one word could define the Metroplex, it is opportunity. Opportunity for businesses to grow and for people to make good lives for themselves and their families. The cities of Dallas and Fort Worth are also home to many famous museums and a wide variety of cultural and recreational activities.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

Many foreign newcomers to the Metroplex seem a bit surprised that the locals don't ride horses to work! Well, they would, except that the freeways are packed with cars (and are tough on the horse's hooves). Plus, the skyscrapers don't have underground stables! The Metroplex is a vibrant, highly mobile and fast-moving area. It offers a wide range of housing choices in every price range. No matter where you choose to live, you'll always be close to shopping, schools, parks, entertainment and medical facilities. However, keep in mind that the high heat in the summer can be a bit overwhelming to newcomers at first.

Are these impressions likely to change?

Most newcomers adjust to the heat and traffic as time goes by.

What is the local language?

English is the main language, with Spanish being the second most commonly-spoken language.

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

Without knowledge of English or Spanish, a newcomer will face some challenges. However, Dallas and Fort Worth are very internationally oriented, and with help from English speakers, one may be able to get by in his or her native tongue.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

Be aware that in Dallas and many of the surrounding communities, smoking bans have been implemented in shops, restaurants, bars and public facilities. Also, Texans are very proud of their state, so it would be impolite to make fun of Texan ways. You should also avoid making fun of someone's accent (or "drawl" as it's called) -- as this can be offensive. Many books are available to help you decipher the unique colloquialisms of Texas.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

With a pleasant 288 days of sunshine per year, you'll always be able to enjoy many outdoor activities in the Metroplex. The summer months (June through August) can boast temperatures of 100+ degrees Fahrenheit, but this won't cause many problems due to the wide availability of air-conditioning in homes, restaurants, shops, public facilities and of course in your own personal vehicle. The spring months (March through May) tend to be rainy and wet with temperatures around 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. During the fall months (September through November), temperatures are typically around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The winter months (December through February) can be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit -- with even some occasional snow and ice.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

The Metroplex -- and the entire state of Texas -- are widely known for having the friendliest people around, offering true Southern hospitality. The prevalent statewide "ya'll come" attitude makes everyone feel welcome. In addition, as a newcomer, you will generally always find that the local folks are more than willing to lend a helping hand.

Useful Links

Greater Dallas Chamber of Commerce www.gdc.org Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce www.fortworthchamber.com Dallas Morning News - local newspaper www.dallasnews.com Fort Worth Star Telegram - local newspaper www.star-telegram.com

 

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

Millions of foreigners travel to the U.S. every year. In most cases, to enter the United States you must obtain a visa. As a visa holder, you will have full access to most basic rights with the exception of the right to vote in elections, hold public office and other things of that nature. However, the U.S. visa policy does permit citizens from certain countries to enter without a visa. To find out more information on whether you are required to have a visa for entry, please visit the website listed below or contact Crown Dallas.

What kinds of visas are available?

There are numerous visas available. There are visas for visitors and visas for permanent residents. Please review the lists below for the types of visas available in both categories. It is strongly recommended you contact an Immigration Attorney and/or the Immigration and Naturalization Service for further details. You may also contact Crown Dallas or visit the websites listed below to find out more information. Visa Types for Visitors: Business Tourist/visitor Border Crossing Card - Mexican Travelers Exchange Visitors Students Temporary Workers Overview Media and Journalists Visa Renewals Mexican and Canadian NAFTA Professional Worker Visa Types for Immigrants: Immediate relatives Special Immigrants Family sponsored Employer sponsored

What is required to obtain these visas?

The United States has updated its visa policies to increase security. It will most likely take you longer to get a visa than it used to and you will find security measures in place. It is recommended that you contact your nearest consulate or embassy or an Immigration Attorney to find out specific details for your country. This is a very detailed process and you will want to be very sure that it is done correctly and legally so that no problems occur at a later time. If you need further assistance please contact Crown Dallas.

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

Typically, a partner is not entitled to work, but there are some instances where the spouse is allowed to apply for a work permit. For further information, contact your attorney or Crown Dallas for further advice.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

Upon arrival, you should apply for your Social Security card, which is obtained at your local Social Security office. Your Social Security number is used to keep a record of your earnings. It is also recommended that you apply for a picture ID from the Department of Motor Vehicles (either a driver's license or simple ID). And, of course you will be traveling with your passport, which is a valid picture identification.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

If you plan on working, the most important thing to apply for after you get settled in is a Social Security card. For further information contact your local consulate or embassy.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

Please contact Crown Dallas for complete assistance and ease of importing effects. Items that are prohibited to come into the country include lottery tickets, narcotics and illegal drugs, obscene articles and publications, seditious and treasonable materials, pirated copies of articles, endangered animals and items made from them, unprocessed plant or livestock products, firearms unless permitted, hazardous articles (fireworks and the like), products made by forced labor, and switchblade knives. Also, alcohol and motor vehicles have specific restrictions. One liter of an alcoholic beverage may be brought in free of duty and Internal Revenue Tax for personal use. Quantities above the one liter limitation are subject to duty and internal revenue tax. Imported motor vehicles are subject to lengthy standards ranging from safety, bumper, to air pollution control standards. Foreign-made vehicles imported into the U.S. are generally dutiable.

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

As long as your visa is valid and you stay in good standing, your stay should not be questioned. Please contact Crown Dallas if you have any questions.

Useful Links

Texas Department of Public Safety www.txdps.state.tx.us Social Security Administration www.ssa.gov

 

What is the local currency?

Local currency is the U.S. dollar ($), which can be divided into 100 cents.

What denominations does it come in?

Coins (cents) come in denominations of one (penny), five (nickel), 10 (dime), 25 (quarter) 50 (half dollar) and 100 (silver dollar); the last two are rarely used. Bills (dollars) come in $1, $2 (rare), $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100.

What is the best way to exchange currency?

Typically, banks offer the best exchange rates, but you will also find that most airports and hotels offer currency exchange services. Additionally, there are also many licensed money changers and foreign exchange offices available throughout the city.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

The most commonly-used forms of payment are: Credit cards, debit cards, cash and personal checks.

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

Yes, credit and debit cards are widely accepted around the city. In some cases, you may find that smaller businesses only accept cash so it is recommended that you carry a small amount of cash on you.

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

Bills are usually paid by personal check or money order. However, most banks now offer online bill pay services using your credit or debit card. Some companies will also allow you to set up an automatic payment which can be deducted from your bank account or paid with your credit card.

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

It is advisable to open an account as soon as possible so that you can receive your checks to begin paying bills. To do so, you will need to present your passport and work visa. Most banks will also require a nominal deposit. In addition, some banks may require you to show your Social Security card, although others may allow you to open the account and then return with the Social Security card when you receive it.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

There are many banks that can assist with Spanish. Also, many banks have staff available who speak additional languages such as Chinese or Vietnamese.

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

Foreign residents may be asked to provide proof of residency and a work permit. In addition, certain types of loans may not be available to foreign residents.

What are typical banking hours?

Most banks are open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays. Many banks also offer drive-through facilities that normally open earlier than the bank lobby and remain open until around 6 p.m. Generally these are also open on Saturdays until noon.

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

Yes. ATM machines are located at area banks as well as at grocery stores and convenience stores. Please be aware that if you use an ATM at a bank where you do not have an account, you will be charged a fee which ranges from $1.25 to $2 per transaction. This fee will be charged both by the bank hosting the ATM as well as your own bank. Most major banks in the Metroplex also offer internet banking for their customers.

Is there any other money information that might help me?

Please contact Crown Dallas with any questions.

Useful Links

Bank of America www.bankofamerica.com Wells Fargo www.wellsfargo.com Chase www.chase.com

 

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

Driving distance to your work location and whether or not you have school-aged children will generally determine where you will want to live.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

For the Dallas area, the neighborhoods of Plano, Richardson, Frisco, Las Colinas, Southlake and Rockwall are very popular with expats. In the Fort Worth area, the most popular neighborhoods for expats are in Southwest Fort Worth and in the central downtown area. Single family homes (both for rent and purchase) and courtyard-style apartments are readily available in both cities and surrounding suburbs. No matter which neighborhood you live in, you'll always have access to major sports and entertainment venues, as well as quality schools and shopping areas.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

It would depend on your company's relocation policy. There are many homes both for sale and rent in the Metroplex. Most expats who are not going to reside in the area for more than about three years typically do not buy homes. Useful Links ExecuStay.com www.execustay.com Candlewood Suites Corporate Housing www.candlewoodsuites.com

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

Deposits for leased or rental housing are always required. The typical deposit is equal to one month's lease or rent payment, but can sometimes be more or less.

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

Utilities are in addition to the rent with single family homes, but some utilities (such as water or gas) may be included in the price of rent for apartments.

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

Many single-family homes and apartments have security systems that are monitored by the local police and fire departments. These provide a deterrent to intrusions or other problems you may encounter.

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

The electric current in the United States is 110 volts. The electrical Hertz (Hz) is 60. Do note: It is not recommended that you bring appliances from overseas. Although there are converters available, the appliance will probably not function properly. Below are examples of the types of plugs that are used in the U.S.: Type A - Flat blade attachment plug Type B - Flat blades with round grounding pin

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

Please contact Crown Dallas with any questions about accommodations in the Metroplex.

Useful Links

 

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

There are many excellent public, private and charter schools available in Dallas and its surrounding areas. Public schools are publicly funded, free, and adhere to a standard curriculum. Private schools charge a fee for attending and usually offer a more specialized curriculum. Charter schoolsare non-profit, self-managed public schools, operating under a performance contract with the local school board. Although charter schools are authorized and monitored by the local school district, they operate independently. They are sometimes referred to as independent public schools. Most parents choose a school for their children dependent on the child's needs and interests. For more information on all the schools that are located close to where you are moving to, contact Crown Dallas, check the local yellow pages or visit the websites listed below.

What are some examples of these schools?

Dallas International School: International Montessori Unlimited: Dallas-area private school Dallas Christian School: Dallas-area private school Trinity Valley School: Fort Worth-area private school Fort Worth Country Day School: Fort Worth-area private school

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

If your child will be attending a public school, there is no competition. Public schools are zoned so they have to accept all children within the school zone in which you live. Private schools however, typically have entrance requirements and waiting lists. If you plan to send your child to a private school, it is recommended that you apply as soon as you arrive in the area to guarantee a spot on the waiting list. And, Charter schools are like private schools in that you have to register, but instead of entry requirements, they have a "random selection" policy. If you decide this is the choice for your child, it is also recommended that you register as early as possible.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

Yes.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

Most children ride yellow school buses to the public schools, but there also some children who may be driven to school by their parents.

When does the typical school year start and end?

Depending on the particular school or school district, the typical school year begins in mid- to late August and ends in late May or early June.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

Please contact Crown Dallas with specific questions or to arrange a school search.

Useful Links

Dallas International School www.dallasinternationalschool.org Trinity Valley School www.trinityvalleyschool.org Fort Worth Country Day School www.fwcds.org Montessori Unlimited www.montessori.com Dallas Christian School www.dallaschristian.com Great Schools - general school information www.greatschools.net School Match - general school information www.schoolmatch.com

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.