How to Settle in USA from India - Visa, Eligibility & Step-by-Step Process

The number of Indians planning to settle in the USA is increasing day by day. They want better jobs, better education, and a good lifestyle. The USA is a popular country for Indian students, skilled workers, and families who are looking for new opportunities. But settling in the USA is not as simple as it sounds. One has to plan many things before going to the USA and settle down.

The process of settling in the USA from India includes choosing the right US visa, getting your documents ready, arranging money, and maybe finding a job or getting into a university. After reaching, you must learn about the USA culture, open a bank account, get health insurance, and know how daily life works there. If not planned well, small things can go wrong and cause big stress later.

The articles have all details on how to move to USA from India in 2025, including details on visa types, cost of living in USA, what to pack, what to do after landing, and also how to apply for a Green Card if you want to stay for a long.

Step 1: Choose the Right Visa

First thing is, you need a visa to go to the USA. There are many types of US visas for Indians, depending on why you are moving. The right visa depends on your purpose, higher education, employment, investment, or family reunification. 

Each visa category has specific eligibility criteria, required documents, and processing times. Choosing the right one ensures a smoother transition.

Popular US Visa Types: 

1. Student Visa (F-1 Visa)

• For people who want to study full-time in USA
• You need an admission letter from a US university
• A Form I-20 from the university is mandatory for the application.
• You can work part-time on campus (up to 20 hours)
• After studies, you can do OPT (Optional Practical Training)

Understanding the complete eligibility criteria and required documents is essential for a successful application. For a detailed breakdown, check out: USA F-1 Visa Requirements for Indian Students

2. Work Visa (H-1B Visa)

• For skilled workers with a job offer from a US employer
• Company will sponsor your visa
• Valid for 3 years, can be extended to 6 years
• It is hard to get because only 85,000 visas are given every year

3. L-1 Visa (Intra-Company Transfer)

• For people working in big companies with offices in USA
• You must work for the company outside the USA for 1 year
• Can help you apply for Green Card later

4. Green Card (Family or Job-Based)

• Gives you permanent residency
• You can apply if your family is in the USA or if your job sponsors you
• It can take many years for Indians, especially under job categories

Also Read: PR in USA – How to Apply & Obtain PR in USA with Types of Visas

5. Investor Visa (EB-5 Visa)

• For people who want to invest $900,000 to $1.8 million in a US business
• You and your close family get Green Card
• Must create at least 10 jobs in USA

Step 2: Get Ready Before You Move

Getting a visa is only the first step. You also need to take care of other things before going. You need to complete legal, financial, and administrative formalities before and after arrival. Proper preparation ensures a stress-free transition.

Important Documents

• Passport (should be valid for 6 more months)
• Visa approval letter
• Job offer letter or university admission letter
• Social Security Number (SSN) / ITIN – Required for employment, banking, and taxation in the USA.
• Copies of important papers like certificates, ID, etc.

Money & Banking

• Show proof of funds (bank statements or sponsor letter)
• Carry an international credit or debit card
• After reaching, open a US bank account (Chase, Bank of America, etc.)

Health & Travel

• Buy health insurance (required for students, useful for others)
• Carry your medical reports and vaccination records
• Book your flight tickets early
• Find a place to stay, even temporary, like Airbnb or student housing

Step 3: Find a Job or Get Admission in USA

You should have a job offer or university admission before applying for a US visa. It is essential before moving to the USA. The process differs for students and professionals:

For Students

• Check top universities in USA
• Apply for US scholarships or financial aid
• Be ready for the student visa interview

For Working Professionals 

• Apply to companies who sponsor H-1B
• Make a good resume that matches US style
• If you’re in fields like medicine, law, you may need extra license or exams

If you're exploring visa options, it's important to understand how different work visas compare. 

Check this guide out: Key Difference Between L1 and H-1B Visa issued by the USA.

Step 4: Plan Your Money and Budget 

Living in the USA is expensive. So, make a good financial plan. The cost of living in the USA varies by city and state. One can check the monthly living costs in USA below. 

Average Monthly Cost of Living in USA 

Expense Category	Cost for Students (USD/INR)	Cost for Professionals (USD/INR)
Rent (Shared Apartment)	$600–$1,200 (₹50K–₹1L)	$1,200–$2,500 (₹1L–₹2L)
Groceries	$300–$600 (₹25K–₹50K)	$400–$800 (₹33K–₹66K)
Eating Out	$150–$400 (₹12K–₹33K)	$300–$700 (₹25K–₹58K)
Public Transport	$80–$150 (₹6.5K–₹12K)	$100–$200 (₹8K–₹16K)
Utilities & Internet	$100–$200 (₹8K–₹16K)	$150–$300 (₹12K–₹25K)
Health Insurance	$150–$400 (₹12K–₹33K)	$200–$600 (₹16K–₹50K)
Entertainment	$100–$300 (₹8K–₹25K)	$200–$500 (₹16K–₹41K)
Miscellaneous	$50–$200 (₹4K–₹16K)	$100–$400 (₹8K–₹33K)
Total Estimated Cost	$1,500–$3,500 (₹1.2L–₹2.9L)	$2,500–$6,000 (₹2L–₹5L)

Open Bank Account in USA

• Open both checking and savings account
• Get a credit card to start building credit history (very important in USA)

Step 5: Learn the Culture and Adjust

Life in USA is very different from India. You will need some time to adjust.

• Try to meet Indian community groups or join local events
• Learn about US work culture – it’s formal, on time, and people speak directly
• Respect local customs and rules – small things matter a lot

Step 6: Apply for Green Card (Permanent Residency)

If you want to live long-term in USA, you need a Green Card. Many Indians moving to the USA aim for a Green Card (permanent residency) to enjoy job flexibility, lower tuition fees, and social security benefits. However, the process is lengthy.

Types of Green Cards: 

1. Employment-Based Green Card (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3)

• You need job sponsorship
• EB-1 is for top-level people like researchers
• EB-2 is for professionals with advanced degrees
• EB-3 is for skilled workers

2. Family-Based Green Card

• If your spouse, parents, or children are US citizens
• Other family categories take longer

3. EB-5 Green Card (Investor)

• You invest money and create jobs in USA
• Good for business people

Green Card Application Process Steps: 

• Employer files PERM Labor Certification (if job-based)
• Then file Form I-140
• Wait for priority date (this can take years for Indians)
• Finally, file Form I-485 or go through Consular Processing

It is a long process, so start early and keep all documents ready.

Given the complexity of the process, understanding the most efficient pathways can be crucial. To explore the easiest ways to get a Green Card and settle in the USA, check out our detailed guide: How to Get Green Card & Settle in USA?

Checklist: How to Settle in the USA from India in 2025?

Moving to the USA requires careful planning and organization. This checklist ensures you don’t miss any essential steps, covering visa procedures, financial arrangements, job search, and cultural adaptation. 

Pre-Departure Checklist: 

• Choose the Right Visa – F-1 (Student), H-1B (Work), L-1 (Intra-Company Transfer), EB-5 (Investor), or Green Card options.
• Apply for a Passport & Visa – Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.
• Book Flight Tickets – Plan in advance to get the best deals.
• Secure Accommodation – Research housing options, whether temporary or permanent.
• Financial Planning – Open an international bank account, carry a forex card, and understand US banking.
• Get Health Insurance – Mandatory for students and highly recommended for professionals.

After You Reach USA:

• Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) / Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) – Essential for employment and taxation.
• Open a US Bank Account – Recommended banks: Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo.
• Get a US SIM Card – T-Mobile, AT&T, or Verizon for connectivity.
• Understand Public Transport – Metro, buses, Uber, and Lyft are commonly used.
• Apply for a Driver’s License – Required for identification and transportation.
• Familiarize Yourself with US Work & Social Culture – Learn workplace etiquette, networking, and cultural norms.

For Long-Term Stay: 

• Apply for a Green Card (if eligible) – Employment, family sponsorship, or investment-based options.
• Build Your Credit Score – Apply for a credit card and pay bills on time.
• File Taxes in the USA – Learn about IRS tax filing requirements.
• Explore Career Growth & Upskilling – Enroll in courses or certifications to enhance job prospects.
• Join Indian Communities – Helps in networking, cultural adaptation, and emotional support.

Conclusion

Moving from India to USA in 2025 is a big step. But with the right visa, proper planning, and clear documents, you can make the move smooth.

This guide is to help you at every step, from getting a visa to settling down, finding a job, and even applying for a Green Card.

Just stay prepared, stay positive, and take things one step at a time. You will do great. 

If you are still having difficulties with the complex process of USA immigration, connect with upGrad experts. The experts here will guide you on the easiest way to settle in the USA.