I've watched the Expat Facebook communities for over a year now and I've worked out that there are (at least) 9 questions that get asked almost every week for those who are moving to America and New York City.
So why not help out and answer them all in one place! What do you think?
Share it with your friends! Hopefully you can help them, too!
(Click to expand)
Q: “HOW DO I SEND/RECEIVE CASH TO THE U.S?”
A: Not through your bank. Yes, I know they said they have no fees but unless you REALLY know what you're doing, they're going to get you with the rates. Use TransferWise, or OFX, or WorldFirst, or a similar FX website. Compare lots, pick one.
Q: “HOW DO I GET MY STUFF TO/FROM THE U.S.?”
A: With great difficulty and expense. First, decide whether you REALLY need it (maybe you could gift or donate it, you're moving to NYC!). If you really do, then use SendMyBag, OSS WorldWide Movers, or Seven Seas. If it's a pet, look at PetFlyers, JetPets or Dogtainers (if going back to Aus, beware of Customs).
Q: “I HAVE/NEED AN APARTMENT TO RENT”
A: Great! This community is great for sharing accommodation. Be specific: Price range, neighborhood(s), short/long term, inclusions, exclusions, and photos that actually show the whole room and apartment (and clean your room first).
Q: “WHAT'S THE BEST PLACE TO GET MY VISA?”
A: It changes, a lot, and everyone's circumstances are different. Canada can be good, everyone loves the Bahamas and Barbados, the UK is a lovely adventure, and if it's your first: Go to Australia for extra ease.
Q: “DO I REALLY HAVE TO LEAVE THE COUNTRY TO ADJUST/RENEW/CHANGE/GET MY VISA?”
A: Yes. I know that you might have read that it can be done without leaving through a “Change of Status”. You don't want that. Nobody does. It takes forever.
Q: “I HAVE AN IMMIGRATION QUESTION ABOUT…”
A: You should never trust random people on the internet about important things like immigration. If you have a very specific set of circumstances, see a lawyer.
Q: “WHERE CAN I BUY…?”
A: Tim Tams? Pies? That brand of yoghurt you love? I promise you, this has already been asked more than once, so look around the page for the “Search this group” box and type in just the name of the product.
Q: “I’M VISITING NEW YORK FOR THE FIRST TIME. WHAT SHOULD I DO?”
A: Welcome! It's a great place but you aren't the first. Check out Trip Advisor, Yelp, Lonely Planet, TimeOut magazine, and CityPass for affordable tourist sights.
Q: “HOW CAN I MOVE TO NYC? IS IT EXPENSIVE?”
A: Woo! It's very exciting but know that yes, it's very expensive (think Inner West Sydney rent+). Getting a job is hard (but achievable) and you also need savings (think 3-4x rent). BUT, it can be done and with a proper plan and resume (strictly one page), you can do it!
