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Emigrating to America: Your Ultimate Guide for a Successful Fresh Start
Are you considering emigrating to the USA? The United States offers diverse opportunities, but the path there is often complex. Discover how GoMovin can support you at every step. We provide you with personalised advice and bespoke solutions for your emigration. Contact us for a non-binding consultation.
The topic short and concise
Are you considering emigrating to the USA? The United States offers diverse opportunities, but the path there is often complex. Discover how GoMovin can support you at every step. We provide you with personalised advice and bespoke solutions for your emigration. Contact us for a non-binding consultation.
Are you considering emigrating to the USA? The United States offers diverse opportunities, but the path there is often complex. Discover how GoMovin can support you at every step. We provide you with personalised advice and bespoke solutions for your emigration. Contact us for a non-binding consultation.
Are you considering emigrating to the USA? The United States offers diverse opportunities, but the path there is often complex. Discover how GoMovin can support you at every step. We provide you with personalised advice and bespoke solutions for your emigration. Contact us for a non-binding consultation.
Dreaming of a life in the USA? This comprehensive guide provides you with all the information you need for a successful emigration. Read now and make your dream a reality!
The dream of living in the USA is tempting for many Germans. However, emigrating to America requires careful planning and preparation. This guide provides you with a comprehensive overview of the key aspects you should consider when emigrating. We show you how to successfully take the first steps and how to optimally plan your new start in the USA.
Overview of the key aspects
Successful emigration begins with a clear target group analysis. Here, different groups should be considered:
Self-employed and freelancers: For this group, the E-2 Visa is an interesting option, although it requires an investment of at least 100,000 US dollars.
Employees with special skills: The H-1B Visa is relevant here, though the annual allocation is limited.
Investors and entrepreneurs: The EB-5 Visa offers the possibility of a Green Card through investments in American companies.
Pensioners and retirees: There are no specific visas for this group, which makes long-term planning necessary.
It is important to carefully analyse your personal situation and goals to find the right path for your emigration. Professional advice can help you make the right decisions.
Why choose the USA as an emigration destination?
The USA offers a variety of reasons that make it an attractive emigration destination. These include:
Economic opportunities: The USA is one of the largest economies in the world and offers numerous job opportunities in various sectors. There is especially high demand for skilled professionals in the fields of technology, finance, and healthcare.
Education system and research: The USA is home to some of the best universities and research institutions in the world. This makes the country attractive to students, scientists, and researchers.
Quality of life and cultural diversity: The USA is an immigration country characterised by great cultural diversity. This is reflected in its cuisine, music, and traditions. Additionally, the USA offers a high quality of life with numerous recreational opportunities and a varied landscape.
The decision to emigrate to America should, however, be well-considered. It is important to be informed about the advantages and disadvantages of living in the USA and to prepare for the challenges. Our relocation service will assist you with the planning and organisation of your move.
Visa Options for the USA: Find the Right Path
The choice of the right visa is a crucial step when emigrating to the USA. There are various visa categories, each differing in their requirements and purposes. Therefore, a careful consideration of your individual situation is essential to find the appropriate path for your stay.
Non-Immigrant Visas vs. Immigrant Visas
It is important to understand the difference between non-immigrant visas and immigrant visas. Non-immigrant visas are intended for temporary stays, whereas immigrant visas pave the way to permanent residency (Green Card).
B-1/B-2 Visas for Business Travel and Tourism: These visas are meant for short-term stays for business or tourism purposes. However, they do not permit employment in the USA.
H-1B Visa for Skilled Professionals: This visa is aimed at highly qualified professionals working in a specialised field. However, issuance is limited and requires sponsorship by a US employer.
F-1 Visa for Students: This visa enables foreign students to study at a US college or university. After completing their studies, there are options to convert the visa to a work visa.
The distinction between these visa types is crucial for your long-term planning. If you plan to live and work in the USA permanently, an immigrant visa is the right option.
The Path to the Green Card
The Green Card is the coveted permanent residency in the USA. There are several ways to obtain a Green Card:
Green Card Lottery: Requirements and Chances: The Green Card Lottery is a lottery process wherein Green Cards are annually awarded to randomly selected individuals from countries with low immigration rates to the USA. The prerequisites are a secondary school education or two years of work experience in the last five years.
Green Card through Employment (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-4, EB-5): This category targets individuals who wish to obtain a Green Card based on their qualifications or investments in the USA. The requirements vary by category.
Family-based Green Cards (IR-1/CR-1, F-2A/F-2B): This category allows US citizens and Green Card holders to bring family members to the USA.
The USCIS website provides detailed information on the different Green Card categories and their requirements. A careful evaluation of your individual situation is advisable to find the appropriate path.
Special Visa Options for Self-Employed and Freelancers
For self-employed individuals and freelancers, there are special visa options that can ease the path to the USA:
E-2 Visa for Investors: This visa is intended for investors who wish to start a business in the USA or invest in an existing one. An investment of at least 100,000 USD is generally required.
O-1 Visa for Individuals with Extraordinary Abilities: This visa is aimed at individuals with extraordinary abilities in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics. It requires evidence of exceptional achievements and recognition in your field.
These visa options provide self-employed individuals and freelancers the opportunity to continue their careers in the USA and benefit from the country's economic opportunities. Our planning assistance supports you in preparing your visa application.
Financial Security: How to Master Financial Planning for the USA
A solid financial plan is crucial for a successful relocation to the USA. It's important to address the financial aspects early and create a realistic budget. This includes not only moving and living expenses but also taxes and health insurance.
Demonstrate financial stability
To obtain a visa for the USA, you must demonstrate that you are financially stable and capable of supporting yourself in the USA. This can be achieved through various documents:
Required capital proof for various visas: The amount of required capital depends on the type of visa. For example, the E-2 visa requires an investment of at least 100,000 USD.
Building creditworthiness: Tips and tricks: Building creditworthiness in the USA is a challenge for many newcomers. It is advisable to apply for a credit card early and use it regularly to build a positive credit history.
Considering security deposits and living costs: Security deposits in the USA can be very high and may equal several months' rent. Additionally, you should consider the living costs in your target region, which can vary significantly depending on the city and state.
It is advisable to open a US bank account before relocating to ease the transfer of funds. Our information on money transfers can assist with this.
Understanding the US tax system
The US tax system is complex and significantly different from the German tax system. It's important to familiarize yourself with its specifics early on:
Taxation of worldwide income for US citizens and Green Card holders: US citizens and Green Card holders must report their worldwide income in the USA, regardless of where they live.
Special regulations for retirees and pensioners (DTA): There are special regulations for retirees and pensioners under the Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) between Germany and the USA.
Handling cryptocurrencies and other assets: Taxation of cryptocurrencies in the USA is complex and subject to constant changes. It is advisable to consult a tax advisor.
The website wohnausland.com offers detailed information about the US tax system and the tax implications of emigration.
Avoiding the "Boris Becker trap"
To be considered a tax resident in the USA, you must genuinely relocate your main place of residence to the USA. This means:
Giving up your German residence: You should completely give up your German residence and register in the USA.
Physical presence in the USA: You must primarily stay in the USA to be considered a tax resident.
The so-called "Boris Becker trap" describes the scenario where individuals do not fully relinquish their German residence and remain taxable in Germany. To avoid this, you should consult a tax advisor and ensure you take all necessary steps to genuinely relocate your main place of residence to the USA. Our logistics experts can assist with organizing your move.
Health Coverage: How to Navigate the US Healthcare System
The US healthcare system is fundamentally different from the German system. There is no mandatory statutory health insurance, and the costs of medical treatments can be very high. Comprehensive health insurance is therefore essential to protect yourself from financial risks.
The importance of comprehensive health insurance
Health insurance in the USA is crucial not only for protecting against high treatment costs but also for accessing medical care. There are various types of health insurance:
Employer-sponsored health insurance (Benefit): Many employers offer health insurance to their employees as part of their benefits package. You should review the insurance details before signing a contract.
Private health insurance and the ACA Marketplace: If you do not have employer-sponsored health insurance, you can take out private health insurance. The ACA Marketplace provides a platform where you can compare and take out different insurances.
Public programmes: Medicaid, CHIP, Medicare, Tricare: There are also public programmes that support certain groups of people, such as Medicaid for low-income individuals, CHIP for children, Medicare for seniors, and Tricare for military personnel.
The lingoking Website emphasises that health insurance is often linked to the employment contract. Therefore, it is important to carefully examine the details of the employment contract.
Challenges and costs in the US healthcare system
The US healthcare system poses some challenges and can be very expensive:
High treatment costs and co-payments: Treatment costs in the US are very high compared to Germany. In addition, you usually have to bear some of the costs yourself (e.g., co-payments, deductibles).
Translation of medical documents: It is advisable to have your medical documents translated into English, so you can present them if needed.
It is important to inform yourself about the various health insurance options before emigrating and to take out insurance that suits your needs. Our planning guide supports you in choosing the right insurance.
Living in the USA: How to Find Your Home
Finding an apartment in the USA can be challenging, as the real estate market is greatly influenced by regional differences. It is important to familiarise yourself with the specifics of your target region early and to create a realistic budget.
The Real Estate Market: Renting and Buying
Whether to rent or buy depends on your financial situation and long-term plans:
Regional Differences: Costs and Availability: Rental and purchase prices vary greatly depending on the region. In major cities like New York or San Francisco, prices are significantly higher than in rural areas.
"1 Bedroom" vs. Two-Room Apartment: In the USA, a two-room apartment is referred to as a "1 Bedroom." This should be taken into account when searching for a flat.
Consider Utilities: Utilities in the USA are generally not included in the rent and must be paid separately.
The lingoking website points out that rental costs vary considerably by location. In rural areas, there are often opportunities to purchase property at lower prices than in Germany.
School System and Education for Children
If you have children, the school system is an important factor in choosing your place of residence:
Compulsory Education and Public Schools: In the USA, compulsory education begins at the age of five, six, or seven, depending on the state. Most children attend public schools funded by taxes.
An Overview of the US School System: The US school system includes various levels: Nursery School, Elementary/Primary School, Junior High/Middle School, and High School.
Grading System (A to F): The grading system in the USA ranges from A to F, with E not being used.
It is advisable to inform yourself about the quality of schools in your target region before emigrating. Our planning guide will assist you in selecting the right school district.
Driving Licence and Traffic Rules
In the USA, having a car is often essential for mobility. Therefore, it is important to familiarise yourself with the driver's licence regulations and traffic rules:
Validity of the EU Driving Licence and International Driving Permit: Many states accept the EU driving licence, but it is advisable to apply for an international driving permit.
Traffic Rules and Conduct at Traffic Stops: Traffic rules can differ from state to state. It is important to inform yourself in advance. The Foreign Office recommends specific conduct at traffic stops.
The lingoking website recommends thoroughly researching the traffic rules in your target state. Our logistics experts will assist you in organising the transport of your vehicle.
Overcoming Legal Hurdles: How to Succeed in Communication with Authorities
When emigrating to the USA, numerous legal aspects must be considered. It is important to familiarise yourself early with the relevant laws and regulations and to prepare the necessary documents.
Important Documents and Translations
For immigration to the USA, you will need various documents, which you may need to have translated and certified:
Birth certificates, marriage certificates, school diplomas: These documents are usually required for the visa application.
Certified translations: Documents that are not in English must be translated and certified by a certified translator.
The lingidoo website emphasises the importance of certified translations for documents such as school diplomas and medical records.
Dealing with Authorities and Forms
When emigrating to the USA, you will need to interact with various authorities and forms:
USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services): The USCIS is the American immigration authority responsible for processing visa and Green Card applications.
Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN): The Social Security Number (SSN) is a social insurance number that you will need for various purposes, e.g. for starting work, opening a bank account or signing a rental agreement.
The USCIS website offers detailed information on the various forms and applications. It is advisable to familiarise yourself early with the requirements and to fill out the applications carefully.
Employment Law Particularities
US employment law differs in some respects from German employment law:
"At-will" Employment and Dismissal Protection: In the USA, the "At-will" employment principle applies in most states, meaning that employers and employees can terminate the employment relationship at any time without providing reasons.
Holiday Entitlement and Sick Days: There are no statutory regulations for holiday entitlement or sick days in the USA. These are usually negotiated individually between employer and employee.
The lingoking website points out that there is no statutory dismissal protection and no statutory regulations for holiday entitlement in the USA. It is therefore important to carefully check the working conditions before signing a contract.
Mastering Integration: How to Quickly Settle in the USA
Successful integration into American society is crucial for a fulfilling life in the USA. It's important to actively engage with the new culture, make connections, and get involved in the community.
Linguistic and Cultural Adaptation
Linguistic and cultural adaptation is an important step towards integration:
Improve English skills: Good English skills are essential for navigating daily life and making connections.
Understand and respect cultural differences: The USA has a different culture than Germany. It is important to become familiar with and respect these cultural differences.
There are numerous ways to improve your English, such as language courses, language exchange partners, or attending English-speaking events. Our planning guide offers tips for linguistic preparation.
Networks and Communities
Building a network and participating in communities can help you settle in faster and make connections:
Expat communities and clubs: There are numerous expat communities and clubs in the USA, providing you with opportunities to meet other Germans and share experiences.
Social media and online forums: Social media and online forums can help you make connections and find information.
Joining an expat community can ease your transition into life in the USA and help you overcome homesickness. Our information on homesickness offers tips on how to cope with it.
Checklist for Emigration
A checklist can help you keep track of the most important tasks and preparations:
Planning and preparation: Visa application, house hunting, health insurance, moving arrangements.
Move and transport: Shipping furniture and personal belongings, organizing flights and accommodation.
Arrival and settling in: Registering with authorities, opening a bank account, applying for a Social Security Number.
Our planning guide includes a detailed checklist to help you prepare for your emigration.
Embracing Challenges: How to Avoid Common Mistakes
Emigrating to the USA comes with several challenges. It's important to prepare for these challenges and avoid common mistakes.
Unexpected Costs and Financial Difficulties
Unexpected costs and financial difficulties can be a significant burden:
Budget Planning and Financial Reserves: Create a realistic budget and allocate sufficient financial reserves to cover unexpected expenses.
It's advisable to research the cost of living in your destination region before emigrating and to prepare a realistic budget. Our information on money matters can assist you with this.
Loneliness and Homesickness
Loneliness and homesickness can be a major challenge:
Maintain Social Contacts: Maintain social contacts with other Germans and Americans to avoid feeling isolated.
Seek Support: Seek support from friends, family, or professional advisors if you feel overwhelmed.
It's important to be aware that homesickness is a normal reaction to emigrating. Our information on homesickness offers tips on how to handle it.
Bureaucratic Hurdles and Legal Issues
Bureaucratic hurdles and legal issues can be time-consuming and nerve-wracking:
Seek Professional Advice: Seek professional advice if you encounter bureaucratic hurdles or legal problems.
It's advisable to familiarize yourself with the relevant laws and regulations before emigrating and to seek advice from a lawyer or tax advisor if necessary. Our planning assistance includes contacts for professional advisors.
New Beginning in the USA: Seize the Opportunity for a Better Life
Emigrating to the USA is a great opportunity for a new life. It is important to prepare for the challenges, but also to seize the opportunities and make the most of your fresh start.
The USA as an Opportunity for a New Life
The USA offers numerous opportunities for a new life:
Pros and Cons of Emigrating: Carefully weigh the pros and cons of emigration and make an informed decision.
It is important to be aware that emigrating to the USA is not always easy, but it also has many positive aspects. Our relocation assistance supports you in planning and organising your move.
Future Trends and Developments
Immigration policy and technological developments can influence emigration to the USA:
Changes in Immigration Policy: Immigration policy in the USA is subject to constant changes. It is important to stay informed about the latest developments.
Technological Innovations and Their Impact: Technological innovations can change the working world and life in the USA. It is important to adapt to these changes.
It is advisable to regularly keep informed about the latest developments in immigration policy and technological innovations. Our planning guide includes links to relevant information sources.
Emigrating to America can be an exciting and fulfilling adventure. With careful planning and preparation, you can realise your dream of living in the USA. We at GoMovin are happy to support you every step of your move. From the initial planning to your arrival in your new home, we are at your side with our expertise.
Are you ready for your fresh start in the USA? Contact us today for a non-binding consultation. We help to make your move stress-free and efficient. Get in touch now!
Further useful links
On the USCIS website, you will find detailed information about the various Green Card categories and their requirements, as well as forms and applications.
FAQ
Welche Visumoptionen gibt es für Selbstständige, die in die USA auswandern möchten?
Für Selbstständige ist das E-2 Visum eine interessante Option, die jedoch eine Investition von in der Regel mindestens 100.000 US-Dollar erfordert. Alternativ kann das O-1 Visum für Personen mit außergewöhnlichen Fähigkeiten in Frage kommen.
Wie kann ich meine finanzielle Stabilität für den Visumantrag nachweisen?
Sie müssen nachweisen, dass Sie Ihren Lebensunterhalt in den USA bestreiten können. Dies kann durch Kapitalnachweise, Kontoauszüge und Gehaltsabrechnungen erfolgen. Die Höhe des erforderlichen Kapitals hängt von der Art des Visums ab.
Welche steuerlichen Aspekte muss ich bei der Auswanderung in die USA beachten?
US-Bürger und Green Card Inhaber müssen ihr Welteinkommen in den USA versteuern, unabhängig davon, wo sie leben. Es gibt jedoch Sonderregelungen im Rahmen des Doppelbesteuerungsabkommens (DBA) zwischen Deutschland und den USA, insbesondere für Rentner und Pensionäre.
Wie funktioniert das Gesundheitssystem in den USA und welche Krankenversicherung benötige ich?
Es gibt keine gesetzliche Krankenversicherungspflicht in den USA. Sie benötigen eine umfassende Krankenversicherung, entweder durch Ihren Arbeitgeber (Benefit) oder eine private Krankenversicherung. Der ACA Marketplace bietet eine Plattform, um verschiedene Versicherungen zu vergleichen.
Was muss ich bei der Wohnungssuche in den USA beachten?
Die Miet- und Kaufpreise variieren stark je nach Region. Beachten Sie, dass eine Zwei-Zimmer-Wohnung in den USA als "1 Bedroom" bezeichnet wird. Die Nebenkosten (Utilities) sind in der Regel nicht in der Miete enthalten.
Wie lange ist mein EU-Führerschein in den USA gültig und benötige ich einen internationalen Führerschein?
Viele Bundesstaaten akzeptieren den EU-Führerschein, aber es empfiehlt sich, einen internationalen Führerschein zu beantragen. Informieren Sie sich über die spezifischen Bestimmungen in Ihrem Zielbundesstaat.
Welche Dokumente benötige ich für die Auswanderung in die USA und müssen diese übersetzt werden?
Sie benötigen verschiedene Dokumente wie Geburtsurkunden, Heiratsurkunden und Schulzeugnisse. Dokumente, die nicht auf Englisch verfasst sind, müssen von einem zertifizierten Übersetzer übersetzt und beglaubigt werden.
What does "At-will" Employment mean in US employment law?
In the USA, the "At-will" Employment principle applies in most states, meaning that employers and employees can terminate the employment relationship at any time without giving a reason. There is no statutory job protection like in Germany.
