Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Los Angeles

What is special or unique about your city?

One of the world's most culturally diverse cities, Los Angeles (also known as the "City of Angels," or just LA), is home to people from 140 countries speaking 96 different languages.The area is a renowned cultural center, with outstanding museums, theaters, dance companies and music venues. LA is also the home of Hollywood - the center of the entertainment industry. Amusement parks such as Disneyland, Universal Studios, Six Flags Magic Mountain, and Knott's Berry Farm lure you with their offerings. For sports fans, there are many teams, including baseball's LA Dodgers and California Angels, basketball's Lakers and Clippers and hockey's Mighty Ducks.

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

The weather is warm and wonderful and the sandy beaches and palm trees tempt many from their responsibilities. No matter how much time one has available, there's so much to do and so little time! Truly, two of the biggest challenges in adjusting to life in LA is getting used to the traffic and managing your entertainment options.

Are these impressions likely to change?

Positively not!

What is the local language?

English is the local language. However, the Spanish influence is strong throughout Southern California in language, street names (Mission Viejo and Loz Feliz Boulevard) and the foods enjoyed (tacos, enchiladas, burritos, etc).

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

It is highly recommend that you learn American English in order to make your stay more comfortable. Most residents speak only English, although there are pockets of immigrant communities where other languages are prevalent.

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

Because of the diverse nature of the LA area and the acceptance of other customs and values, it is very difficult to offend the locals. Using certain hand gestures (eg, displaying your middle finger) can be considered offensive.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

It is typically sunny and mild in LA. The weather offers no barriers to everyday living. Winter can bring heavy rain but it doesn't last for long. Summer and fall bring warmer temperatures which can reach into the 100 degree range but, again, it does not last for long. Brush fires are a danger during the dry summer and fall, but constant clearing of dead vegetation helps keep things safe.

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

With the diverse nature of residents and communities, LA has the resources to suit the needs of most anyone. From the less populated suburbs to the busy and fully occupied city, the LA area is a great place to work and play.

Useful Links

City of Los Angeles www.cityofla.org Caprica Internet Service www.caprica.com The Los Angeles Times www.latimes.com The Orange County Register www.ocregister.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 Los Angeles.

What kinds of visas are available?

There are numerous visas available. There are visas for visitors and visas for immigrants. 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 Los Angeles or visit the Web sites 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 Los Angeles.

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 Los Angeles or 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 Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles if you have any questions.

Useful Links

Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Online www.immigration.gov Department of Motor Vehicles www.dmv.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?

Pre-authorized debit withdrawals are an efficient way of paying gas, water and electricity bills. By this method, your bills are automatically deducted from your bank account. The various utility companies can help you with the arrangements. Also, many bills can be paid on-line via agency websites and with personal checks.

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

Banking arrangements should be handled as soon as possible upon arriving to Los Angeles. You will need a photo ID, social security number, and money for deposit. A permanent address is not a requirement.

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

Typically, no.

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

Typically, no.

What are typical banking hours?

Monday through Friday - 9am until 6pm. Saturday - 10am until 3pm.

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

Yes.

Is there any other money information that might help me?

Banks charge a nominal fee to exchange currency.

Useful Links

Currency Converter www.oanda.com Citibank www.citibankonline.com HSBC www.hsbc.com

 

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

Neighborhood characteristics, amenities, proximity to public transport, schools, work, shops, cinemas, churches and type of accommodation. It's best to consult with a person knowledgeable of the areas that you are interested in. It is not difficult to find housing, as long as you are willing to pay for it. Rental living is at a premium in Southern California. Tenancy is at 2 percent right now, and the market greatly favors landlords and not the tenants. For the most part, people live on the outskirts of Los Angeles. The city itself is mostly business and commercial and not conducive to family living.

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

Los Angeles and Orange Counties are very large geographical areas and it's best to consult with an experienced real estate professional or Crown Los Angeles when considering a move to the area. There are several neighborhoods that people migrate to (whether they're expats or native Californian). They are selected for their sense of community, citizens and standard of living. Some of these neighborhoods include Westwood, Brentwood, Thousand Oaks, Bixby Knolls, Irvine and Mission Viejo. These cities are planned communities with newer housing, plenty of parks for family outings and convenient shopping for daily needs. They are designed with family living in mind.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

When unfamiliar with the area, they tend to rent for a short term before leasing or purchasing, depending on the length of stay. If they plan to stay at least three to five years, purchasing a home is more common.

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?

Typically, one month's rent and a security deposit equal to one month's rent can be requested up front. The costs vary depending on the amount of monthly rent required. If the rent is $2,000 a month, the property manager may require first month's rent of $2,000, plus an additional security deposit of up to $2,000. California State Law limits the security deposit to no more than two months' rent for an unfurnished apartment and three months' rent for a furnished apartment.

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

Generally, utilities are not included when renting homes, condos and townhouses. Sometimes, apartments have utilities included. Utilities can include gas, electricity, phone, DSL (high speed internet), trash and water.

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

As is common in most cities, certain areas are less desirable than others. It is a very good idea to consult with friends, co-workers, and Crown Los Angeles help you select the area that suits you best.

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?

Be prepared for the rental management company representative to perform a credit check when you apply to rent a home. It is recommended that you have your employer prepare a letter for you indicating your financial stability. This does not present a problem for expats coming to the area. LA encompasses a very large geographic area. Single family homes without common walls are available for rent or purchase as well as units sharing common walls (referred to as apartments, condos, and townhouses). Most homes do not come with appliances other than an oven/stove. Some units offer a number of amenities (eg, pool, recreational facilities) and others offer merely the accommodations. Pet friendly accommodations are not plentiful.

Useful Links

Fannie Mae www.fanniemae.com

 

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 Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles, check the local yellow pages or visit the Web sites listed below.

What are some examples of these schools?

Because of the expansive size of the Los Angeles area, the large number of both public and private schools and the diverse educational needs of children, it would not be in the best interest to provide a list schools here. Please consult with Crown Los Angeles who can assist with providing a list of schools to meet your childrens' needs. Selecting a school here depends on the city you reside in (city boundaries determine the public school that will be attended), and the private schools are determined by living arrangements as well. Lycee French Schools are available for French expats, but they are in only a few cities Monrovia, Tustin and Anaheim. All told, it is generally a good idea to research homes and schools at the same time, as one may affect the other.

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. There are many preschools available, from public such as YMCA to private, like Montessori and Carden Academy. Most preschools charge for enrollment tuition.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

Most schools operate school bus transportation or parents bring their children to and from school.

When does the typical school year start and end?

Most schools operate from the first week of September to mid-June.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

Please consult with Crown Los Angeles to obtain additional information about the local schools.

Useful Links

Los Angeles United School District www.lausd.K12.ca.us Orange County Department of Education www.ocde.k12.ca.us National Parent Information Network www.npin.org

 

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.