Moving to USA From UK Checklist

Last Updated: 6th August 2025 by Martha Lott

Are you dreaming of swapping grey skies in the UK for endless road trips across the US? From sorting out visas and shipping your belongings to understanding healthcare, taxes, and local life, there’s a lot to plan before you can settle into your American dream. 

1st Move International have created a detailed checklist to help with your move to the US. Our scannable, easy-to-read moving to USA from UK checklist will help you tick off those jobs that you might have overlooked. 

1. Visas and Passports

• Apply in advance for the correct visa, as the process can take a while
• Prepare all essential documents for your visa interview 
• Make sure your passport is valid for 6 months AFTER you move
• Prepare your ESTA if you are visiting before making the move

2. Sort Employment

• Begin your job hunt early to avoid any visa delays
• Ensure your visa allows employment: H1B, L1, E2, Green Card
• Gather your Employment Authorisation Document if on a work visa
• Get to know US employment laws, e.g annual leave allowance and maternity pay

3. Securing Mortgage or Rental Accommodation

• Understand local state laws on foreigners buying property 
• Look at renting before you buy to try out different areas 
• Make sure you understand the requirements and eligibility
• Prepare proof of income or an employment letter

4. Get your US Social Security Number

• You need a Social Security Number to open a US bank account, get a job, and pay taxes
• Start the application early to avoid delays in using vital services
• Go to your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office with your passport and visa/green card
• Receive in the post within 2-4 weeks

5. Organise Your Finances

• Open a bank account in the US. There are some expat-friendly banks
• Let HMRC know you will be moving through the P85 form
• Create a moving budget to not spend more than you need
• Review the UK-US Double Taxation Agreement to avoid paying tax twice

6. Arrange Healthcare in the US

• Organise health insurance for arrival; there is no free healthcare in the USA
• Register with your local doctor. You can find your nearest GP online
• Price up the costs of your prescriptions and have medical copies ready 
• Be prepared for high out-of-pocket costs

7. Secure Your Child’s School Place in the US

• Discover your local school district in the US
• Find out when terms start and get your application in early
• Prepare school reports from the UK and vaccination records
• Make sure they can offer subjects and activities your kids enjoy

8. Book Your International Removal Company

• Start decluttering your belongings for a cheaper move to the USA
• Fill out 1st Move International’s form to get an accurate quote
• Check US customs regulations for personal imports and restricted items
• Make an inventory of everything you’re shipping to make it easy for customs

9. Set Up Utilities 

• Cancel your utilities in the UK and take meter readings before leaving
• Set up broadband, TV, gas, electric, and any other essential utilities
• Take meter readings on move‑in day to ensure accurate billing
• Certain states may ask for an SSN or a deposit to set up utilities

10. Prepare Your Pets

• Understand US pet import rules 
• Prepare your pet with a microchip, vaccinations, and a health certificate
• Look at travel options and get them prepared 
• Organise pet insurance to cover you in the US

11. Sort Life Admin

• Cancel any subscriptions and memberships you have in the UK 
• Redirect your UK mail or have it forwarded to family if you plan to be back and forth
• Update your address with online accounts and change the default delivery address
• Sort out your mobile so you’re not paying roaming charges. Consider getting a US SIM card

12. Secure Your US Driving License

• Visit your local DMV to get your state’s driving license 
• You must apply within 30-90 days, as you can no longer use your UK one after this
• Take your UK license, visa, passport, SSN, and proof of address
• Take a vision, written, and road test if required

 13. Arrange Insurances 

• Get the correct home or renters insurance cover
• Organise or transfer life insurance 
• Sort out a new car insurance policy 
• Travel and removals insurance are recommended 

14. Settling In the US

• Understand the tipping culture 
• Create a budget based on the cost of living in your state
• Find local expat groups and activities 
• Familiarise yourself with driving rules 

Ready to Move to the USA From the UK?

When you’re ready to make the move to the States, get in touch with 1st Move International, and we’ll take care of the hard work. We’ll give you a free, tailored quote for your move to the USA to help you budget for the big move. 

Our team of experts have been helping UK expats relocate to the USA for over 25 years. 1st Move’s professional shrink-wrap packing technique ensures the protection of your items, giving you peace of mind throughout the move. We also help you safely and quickly navigate the US customs control with our Fast Track customs clearance.