Updated on: February 13, 2026
This guide was written by the Editorial Team at emigrantes.eu, based strictly on official sources (USCIS, IRS, Social Security Administration, and state agencies) and updated as of February 2026 to ensure the accuracy of the information.
Official Guide to Immigration Procedures in the United States
Welcome to the guide for official procedures to be completed in the United States. Here you will find step-by-step explanations of the essential procedures for settling in: applying for a Social Security Number (SSN), opening a bank account, enrolling in health insurance, obtaining a driver’s license, school registration, verifying immigration status, and initial tax procedures.
All information is presented in Spanish and tailored to those arriving for work, study, or family reunification. We include requirements, necessary documents, deadlines, official links, and recommended steps based on your visa or legal status.
The goal is for you to complete all your procedures without errors and without needing an agent, even if you’re still working with your initial documents or have just arrived.
Choose a procedure
How to complete the procedures with your personal advisor and fill out the official forms:
- Select the procedure you need
- Click “Go to the official procedure” to open the actual procedure page in a new tab.
- Return to this page and click “View step-by-step guide” to follow the self-guided instructions while filling out the official form.
- We’ve left the fields to be filled out in their original language so you can easily match them with the official form.
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Based on official sources from the corresponding country.
For more information, see our
Editorial Policy .
- Official websites of government agencies and public administrations in the relevant country.
- Institutional portals for immigration, taxation, social security, and public services.
- Official documentation published by ministries, state agencies, and competent authorities.
Specific sources may vary by country and procedure.
It is always recommended to verify the information directly with the relevant official agency.
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User: “I want to renew my TIE while living in France.”
AE: “Here are the documents, an explanation of the EX-17 form, and completed examples.”
User: “I need a criminal record certificate.”
AE: “I’ll walk you through it step by step and show you how to fill out the application.”
User: “I don’t understand what to put on my tax return.”
AE: “Here’s the 2025 Income Tax Guide explained field by field.”
Recommended services to complete your procedures
- Wise – Send money abroad with very low fees. Open an account
- Coliving – 50,000 rooms in 2,000 co-living spaces in key locations around the world. More info
- BoursoBank – Open your European account with no paperwork. Create an account
- IATI Travel Insurance – Ensure a worry-free trip. Required for many procedures. The best travel insurance
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Official forms explained step-by-step
: international procedures
Settling in the United States involves completing several administrative processes that can be confusing if you’re not familiar with the system. In this guide, you’ll learn how to apply for your SSN, the requirements for health insurance, how to open a bank account without a credit history, and how to obtain your state driver’s license. We also explain how the tax system (IRS) works, what documents you need to rent a home, how to enroll your children in school, and how to verify your immigration status on official websites.
The guide summarizes all the essential procedures to start your life in the United States smoothly, with clear and up-to-date explanations for 2025, along with interpreted official forms and direct links.
What are the first official steps?
Apply for a Social Security Number, open a bank account, get health insurance, and apply for a state driver’s license.
What is a Social Security Number?
It is the number required to work, pay taxes, and access services in the United States. It is requested using Form SS-5.
Is health insurance mandatory?
Yes. Healthcare is private and very expensive; you should enroll in health insurance as soon as possible to avoid high costs.
How do I get a driver’s license?
You must pass a written and driving test, present valid identification, and provide proof of residency in the relevant state.
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Weekly summary of procedures – Week 47, 2025
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Italy – Registration at the Employment Center: Quick Step-by-Step Guide
If you live in Italy and need to complete the registration with the Employment Center process, here is a quick guide with the essential steps, documents, and updated official links. Where to go and useful links Official portal: Access the official site Other related resources may be added as needed. Practical tip: Always check the information directly on the official website before going to your appointment or sending documents, as requirements may change without prior notice. If you want more step-by-step guidance, use our online assistant for procedures in Italy.
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Germany – Anmeldung – Wohnsitz anmelden: quick step-by-step guide
If you live in Germany and need to complete the Anmeldung – Wohnsitz anmelden procedure, here is a quick guide with the essential steps, documents, and updated official links. Where to go and useful links Official website: Visit the official site Other related resources may be added as needed. Practical tip: Always check the information directly on the official website before going to your appointment or sending documents, as requirements may change without prior notice. If you want more step-by-step guidance, use our online assistant for procedures in Germany.
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France – Échange de permis de conduire étranger: quick step-by-step guide
If you live in France and need to complete the Échange de permis de conduire étranger procedure, here is a quick guide with the essential steps, documents, and updated official links. Where to go and useful links Official portal: Access the official site Other related resources may be added as needed. Practical tip: Always check the information directly on the official website before going to your appointment or sending documents, as requirements may change without prior notice. If you want more step-by-step guidance, use our online assistant for procedures in France.
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Spain – Vehicle Registration and Driver’s License: Quick Step-by-Step Guide
If you live in Spain and need to complete the Vehicle Registration and Driver’s License process, here is a quick guide with the essential steps, documents, and updated official links. What does this process involve? A guide to help you understand the information typically required when registering a vehicle and when applying for or obtaining a driver’s license in Spain. It does not replace the official DGT forms, but it explains, field by field, what each piece of information means and what kind of information you should have ready. Where to go and useful links Official website: Visit the official site Other […]
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Other Countries – USA – B1/B2 Visa (Tourist / Business): Quick Step-by-Step Guide
If you live in Other Countries and need to complete the USA – B1/B2 Visa (Tourist / Business) process, here is a quick guide with the essential steps, documents, and updated official links. Where to go and useful links Official website: Visit the official site Other related resources may be added as needed. Practical tip: Always check the information directly on the official website before going to your appointment or sending documents, as requirements may change without prior notice. If you want more step-by-step guidance, use our online assistant for procedures in Other countries.