articles

setting up 


NTNY is lining up specialists to break down practical advice and personal experience of moving and settling here in New York. Until that lands, if you are just beginning to think about a move to New York, this 101 guide gives you a clear, helpful place to start:

  • • Clarify your visa route
    Skilled Worker, L1, O1, family, student and ESTA for short stays. Early legal advice is valuable.
    https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states

    • Budget for NYC costs
    Rents, childcare and healthcare are the biggest shocks for UK movers.
    https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/New-York

    • Understand U.S. credit
    Arrivals normally start with no credit history. Consider secured cards and newcomer bank programs.
    https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/what-is-a-secured-credit-card-en-1067/

    • Gather key UK documentation
    Employment letters, payslips, references, school reports, vaccination records, driving licence history and financial statements all streamline onboarding, rentals and schools.

    • Check driving licence rules
    A UK licence is valid short-term, but many insurers require a U.S. or NY State licence for better rates.

    https://dmv.ny.gov/driver-license goes here

  • • Learn the NYC rental system
    Expect broker fees, income requirements and a fast decision cycle.
    https://www.streeteasy.com/blog/renting-in-nyc-guide/

    • Explore neighbourhoods that fit your life
    Commute, schools, local feel, access to parks, noise levels and budget.
    https://www.nyc.gov/site/planning/planning-level/nyc-neighborhoods

    • Prepare a strong application pack
    Passport, visa details, proof of income, UK references, bank statements, employment letter and a potential guarantor. UK families often use institutional guarantor services if needed.

    • Understand lease types
    Standard leases, co-ops, condos and rental buildings all have different approval processes.

  • • Secure health insurance before or immediately upon arrival
    Employer plans, ACA marketplace or private policies.
    https://www.healthcare.gov/quick-guide/

    • Choose a primary care doctor
    This is your equivalent of a UK GP. Ensure they 'take your insurance' and ideally are 'in network' to avoid unexpected charges.

    • Find a dentist, optician and urgent care
    Worth having established before emergencies and for regular check-ups.

    • Check in-network providers
    Costs vary dramatically. Confirm networks before appointments.

    • Transfer key medical records
    Immunisations for children, GP letters, prescriptions, maternity history and specialist notes. Note: These will be required by schools to register.

  • • Set up a U.S. bank account
    Some banks offer newcomer programs that accept foreign credit files.
    https://www.hsbc.com/who-we-are/our-global-network/united-states/new-to-the-us-banking

    • Understand tax basics
    NYC residents pay federal, state and city taxes. UK-US treaty considerations apply for some earners.
    https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers

    • Secure an SSN or ITIN
    Needed for work, credit, utilities and many rental approvals.
    https://www.ssa.gov/number-card

    • Set up mobile and internet
    Major carriers offer eSIMs and newcomer packages.
    https://www.tomsguide.com/us/best-phone-carriers

    • Build a digital toolkit
    Apps such as Uber, Lyft, Google Maps, and a food delivery service are essentials. 

  • • Get familiar with the NYC school landscape
    Public, private, charter and international options all work differently.
    https://www.schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/enroll-grade-by-grade

    • Start the process early
    Private school applications often open a year in advance. Waitlists are common.

    • Childcare varies by neighbourhood
    Daycare, pre-K, nannies, nanny-shares and after-school programs each operate with different costs and availability.

    • For older children, understand placement
    Academic transcripts, assessment reports and teacher references help smooth transitions.

  • • Transport essentials
    Subway, buses, ferries and Citi Bike. A MetroCard is still used in some places through December 2025, but OMNY tap-and-go is being rolled out, so your phone will be all you need.
    https://new.mta.info

    • Tipping culture
    Expect 18–20 percent in most service situations.

    • Utilities setup
    ConEd for electricity, National Grid for gas and a range of providers for internet.

    • Understand seasonal realities
    Extreme temperatures, snow, humid summers and strong AC everywhere.