Reflections on a Visa Journey
Jan 18th 2021 | 4:08 am
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Reflections on a Visa Journey
Its been quite a journey from our initial DCF application (Mar 20) to finally receiving my Green Card (Jan 21).
Been reflecting on some of the issues which became obstacles when we arrived.
I thought it may be of use to some if these obsticles were aired, so here goes.
Banking - I had to get a bank account but at the time I didnt have any US Financial History or a permanent address. Chase were not interested and it was only after seeking advice from some who had arrived before, that I was advised to try Wells Fargo. I did approach them and managed to get a bank account in my name. An alternative maybe to open an account with a UK bank with US affiliations (Barclays?) Or maybe open a Joint Account at the bank used by your US Spouse. Not sure if a non US Citizen can do that.
Credit Score - again, with no US Financial history, my Credit Rating was zero. All UK scores dont apply. No Credit Score can cause problems getting a Tenancy and its a no-go trying to lease a car. Make sure your US Spouse is in a good place credit score wise. Do what you can to improve that score BEFORE you arrive.
Driving - after driving in UK for more than 40 years, my licence became void in Florida. As soon as you take employment, sign a Tenancy Agreement you are considered a resident of Florida. At that point I needed a Florida Driving Licence. I need to do both a Theory and Practical Test. Whilst you wait for your Visa or wait to travel, get online and do what ever practice you can for tge Theory. That way you are ready to do the Theory as soon as you arrive.
Education Qualifications - why not get your quals evaluated before you arrive. Suggestions https://www.wes.org/ or https://www.naces.org
it saves time and hassle. Also DO NOT PACK YOUR QUALS CERTS in the stuff that is being shipped. You wont see them for weeks! (ask me how I know!!!🥴)
If I think of anything else I will update.
These were the main obsticales I recall when I arrived. I hope it gives some food for thought.
Good luck
Been reflecting on some of the issues which became obstacles when we arrived.
I thought it may be of use to some if these obsticles were aired, so here goes.
Banking - I had to get a bank account but at the time I didnt have any US Financial History or a permanent address. Chase were not interested and it was only after seeking advice from some who had arrived before, that I was advised to try Wells Fargo. I did approach them and managed to get a bank account in my name. An alternative maybe to open an account with a UK bank with US affiliations (Barclays?) Or maybe open a Joint Account at the bank used by your US Spouse. Not sure if a non US Citizen can do that.
Credit Score - again, with no US Financial history, my Credit Rating was zero. All UK scores dont apply. No Credit Score can cause problems getting a Tenancy and its a no-go trying to lease a car. Make sure your US Spouse is in a good place credit score wise. Do what you can to improve that score BEFORE you arrive.
Driving - after driving in UK for more than 40 years, my licence became void in Florida. As soon as you take employment, sign a Tenancy Agreement you are considered a resident of Florida. At that point I needed a Florida Driving Licence. I need to do both a Theory and Practical Test. Whilst you wait for your Visa or wait to travel, get online and do what ever practice you can for tge Theory. That way you are ready to do the Theory as soon as you arrive.
Education Qualifications - why not get your quals evaluated before you arrive. Suggestions https://www.wes.org/ or https://www.naces.org
it saves time and hassle. Also DO NOT PACK YOUR QUALS CERTS in the stuff that is being shipped. You wont see them for weeks! (ask me how I know!!!🥴)
If I think of anything else I will update.
These were the main obsticales I recall when I arrived. I hope it gives some food for thought.
Good luck
