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 visitor, you are a guest in the United States and while here, you must adhere to the laws of your own country and most certainly to the laws of the United States. 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 things of that nature. However, the U.S. visa policy does permit citizens from certain countries to enter without a visa. To get more information on whether you are required to have a visa for entry, please visit the Web site listed below.
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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 United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for further details. You may also contact Crown Washington DC or visit the Web sites below to find out more information.

Visa Types for Visitors:

  • Business

  • Visitor

  • Border Crossing Card - Mexican Travellers

  • Diplomatic

  • Inter-company transfer

  • Exchange Visitors

  • Students

  • Media and Journalists

  • Mexican and Canadian NAFTA Professional Worker

Visa Types for Permanent Residents:

  • Immediate relatives

  • Special Immigrants

  • Family sponsored

  • Employer sponsored

Please contact your local US embassy or consulate to obtain more information.
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What is required to obtain these visas?

The United States continually updates its visa policies on a regular basis to increase security of the nation. Therefore, you will find that it may take you longer to obtain a visa than in the past and you will find more stringent security measures in place. It is recommended that you contact your nearest US consulate or embassy or an Immigration Attorney to find out specific details for your country. This is a very detailed process and you should be confident that it has been done correctly and legally so that you do not incur any problems occur at a later date.
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Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

There are certain visa classes that will allow spouses to work in the United States. Please consult the local US embassy or consulate or an immigration attorney for further information.
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What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

On 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 for taxation purposes; to distinguish you from others who have a similar or the same name; and it will be needed for such things as opening bank accounts, obtaining your driver’s licence, etc. It is also recommended that you apply for a photo ID from the Department of Motor Vehicles (either a driver's license or simple ID) and, of course you will be travelling with your passport, which is a valid picture identification.
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Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

If you plan to work, the most important thing to have is a Social Security card. For further information contact your local consulate or embassy.
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What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

Please contact Crown Washington DC for complete assistance and ease of importing effects. Basic prohibited items 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 manufactured using forced labor, firearms and switchblade knives.

Motor vehicles also have specific restrictions. Imported motor vehicles are subject to lengthy standards testing ranging from safety to air pollution control standards. Foreign-made vehicles imported into the US are generally dutiable.

The U.S. Customs service has recently made changes to the requirements for Alcohol entry. Please contact your local Crown office to discuss this in advance of your relocation.
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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, you should be fine. Also, be mindful of the expiration date on your visa. Make arrangements, well in advance of its expiration date, to have it extended if you plan to stay beyond its initial term.
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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. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.