When you decide to move to a new country, you should do some research beforehand. Think about whether you will fit in the culture and with the people. This is especially true if you are moving from Japan to USA. These two countries are very different, as well as the lifestyles of the citizens. Moving from Japan can be very stressful because you are leaving friends and family behind. On the other hand, you are starting a new adventure in the United States. However, before you start your relocation, there are some things you should know. Using our guide, you can move to the USA stress-free.

Do research before moving from Japan to USA

What you do before the actual move is the most important part of the relocation. The more you know about your destination, the easier it will be to fit in. During the months before the move, buy some guide and travel books. These are excellent for those who wish to learn more about the USA. While you prepare for moving internationally, you should also think about where you would like to live. Make a list of at least five places and do research on them. See if there are any job opportunities for someone of your skillset. You can even contact the company you want to work for to see if they are hiring.

It would also be helpful to learn the language before you relocate. Not many Americans speak Japanese, so you should learn at least some basic phrases to help you meet people and find a job more easily. This will take time, so try to do this several months in advance or even a year.

Take a trip to the USA

Many foreigners picture America as it is portrayed in Hollywood movies. However, this is not the reality of the situation. For this reason, you should learn as much as you can about the country. Once you decide you are moving from Japan to USA, you should organize a trip there. This will help you see if you can fit in within this environment. Moreover, take a look at the real estate market. Figure out whether you would like to live in a house or in an apartment. This is also an opportunity to see where you would like to live. Due to its immense size, the US offers something for everyone, you just have to find it.

Make sure you have a visa before moving from Japan to USA

One of the most complicated parts about moving to the USA is obtaining a visa. You need to start this process at least three months in advance. There are several stages to receiving a visa, and you should not wait until the last minute. If you are relocating for work, your employer can help you. Having a job before you move will make the process significantly easier for you.

On the other hand, if you have family in the USA, they can help as well. Finally, many students decide to relocate to America for their college degrees. Some of the best universities in the world are located in this country. If you want to study in the USA, there is a special F1 visa meant only for international students. This is also much easier to obtain than a regular visa or green card. Keep this in mind if you are relocating with kids because they can apply for these visas.

Have a place to stay temporarily

Having friends or family in the United States is also helpful when you are looking for temporary accommodation. You can stay with them until you find your permanent residence. Moreover, they can help you decide which neighborhood to move to and find some interesting places. On the other hand, you can stay in a hotel or rent an apartment for short-term. Keep in mind that you will need to book these rooms several months in advance. You don’t want to run around looking for a place when you arrive there.

When you are looking for a house or an apartment, don’t hesitate to ask around. Since you will be living here for a long time, you don’t want to end up moving after a couple of months. Take the time to really research the area before you make your decision. An investment of this size should not be rushed into.

Take care of things in Japan before you move

While there are many things to do in America, you should also take care of everything before you leave Japan with family. This means that you pay all of your bills, redirect your mail, tell people that you are moving, etc. Moreover, you should make sure that you have all the documents you need to enter the USA and live there. For example, don’t forget to pack your birth certificate, medical records, school records, etc.

You will also need your Japanese driver’s license in order to obtain an American one. Have the original as well as two copies with you. When you pack your documents, don’t put them in the suitcases or the boxes you are shipping. Instead, sort them into folders and carry them with you. That way, you will always know where they are in case you need to present them to border officials. Finally, make sure that your passport is up to date. You won’t be able to enter the United States if it is expired.

Move your things when moving from Japan to USA

Packing for relocation can be very hectic and it can be hard to keep track. That is why you should start packing a couple of months before moving from Japan to USA. When it comes to smaller things such as clothes and small household items, you can pack them into your suitcases. On the other hand, large furniture and appliances will likely need to be shipped via a freight forwarder. Make sure that you know the time and date when your items will arrive so that you are ready to receive them.