Took this awesome pic of i-10 and i-45 right at the northern ed…

The Territorial acquisitions of the United States, such as the …

The Rotunda at the University of Virginia. Charlottesville, Vir…

John Trumbull's painting, Declaration of Independence, depictin…

United States

Arctic Ocean, Atlant…

Climate

USD

Currency

Moderate

Safety

High

Cost of Living

English

Language

Arctic Ocean, Atlant…

Climate

USD

Currency

Moderate

Safety

High

Cost of Living

English

Language

Country Information United States

The United States is a vast country located in North America, characterized by a remarkable diversity of geographic features and climates. It spans from the Arctic conditions in Alaska to subtropical environments in Florida and Hawaii, encompassing n...

Cost of Living

vs EU Average46% more expensive

Rent

$2,643Apartment (1 bedroom) in City…

Meal

$26.00Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant

Groceries

$1.40Milk (regular), (1 liter)

Transport

$2.63One-way Ticket (Local Transpo…

Read the full cost-of-living guide

Your United States Roadmap

40+ page relocation analysis tailored to your profile.

Custom Tax & Cost Projection
District Matching for your Lifestyle
Vetted Local Partner Directory

With a safety index of 51/100, United States offers moderate safety conditions for expats and their families.

Safety & Security in United States

Overall Safety Score

Calculated from crime, safety, and healthcare indices

Moderate

/100

Worldwide Average

Moderate54/100

North America Average

Moderate52/100

Crime & Safety Metrics

Index

Compare:

United States

North America Average

Safety Index

Moderate

Safety from Crime

Moderate

Safe Alone (Day)

Good

Safe Alone (Night)

Low

Safety from Violent Crime

Moderate

Safety from Property Crime

Concerning

Healthcare & Emergency Response

Index

Healthcare Index

Adequate

Healthcare Quality

Adequate

Emergency Response

Adequate

Emergency: 911| Police: 911

Full guide

Data Completeness: Complete

Visa Requirements for United States

Entry Requirements & Visa Options

Foreign nationals seeking to enter the United States generally must obtain a U.S. visa prior to travel, except those eligible for visa-free entry under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The most common visa types for temporary visits include the B-1 visa for business, the B-2 visa for tourism, and the combined B-1/B-2 visa for both purposes. Applicants must complete the DS-160 online nonimmigrant visa application, pay the application fee (currently $185 for tourist visas), and attend an interview at a...

Work permits available

Read full guide

Discover Cities in United States

Create your free profile to see personalized match scores.

View all cities in United States

Country Risk Intelligence

Political StabilityN/A

Stable

Disaster Activity100/100

Stable

DisplacementNo significant displacement

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Last updated: Apr 17, 2026

Location Intelligence for United States

Cost of Living68.7

46% above EU avg

Safety50.8

22% below EU avg

Quality of Life190.2

23% above EU avg

Purchasing Power161.8

131% above EU avg

Baselines based on EU averages. Source: Numbeo indices.

Capital

Washington, D.C.

Timezone

UTC-12:00

Area

9,372,610 km²

Population

329,484,123

United States shows a purchasing power index of 162/100, indicating excellent economic conditions for expats.

Economic Overview in United States

Index

GDP

$27.72T

HDI

0.9

Quality of Life

82/100

+39 vs NYC

Purchasing Power

67/100

+25 vs NYC

Understanding the economic landscape is essential for evaluating living costs and opportunities in United States. This comprehensive overview covers key financial indicators including cost of living, housing markets, income levels, and fiscal policies that shape daily life and long-term financial planning.

Compare:

United States

Continent Avg

Cost of Living Index

Moderate

Moderate cost of living with a CPI of 65.35 (NYC=100 baseline). Groceries index at 73.95 and restaurant price index at 66.47 reflect moderately high daily expenses.

Housing Market

Excellent

Very affordable housing market with property prices averaging 3.43 years of income, indicating good accessibility for residents.

Average Income Levels

Excellent

Excellent purchasing power index of 155.67, indicating strong income levels relative to living costs across the country.

Tax System

Moderate

Progressive federal income tax rates range from 10% to 37%, plus state and local taxes varying widely; sales tax averages around 6-7%, with property taxes varying regionally.

Business Environment

Good

Ranked #6 in the World Bank 2024 ease of doing business report, with a large startup ecosystem and generally favorable regulatory environment.

Social Security

Good

Comprehensive social security including Social Security retirement benefits, Medicare, Medicaid, and unemployment insurance, though healthcare coverage varies by insurance.

Work & Business in United States

Business ClimateSee full guide for details

Work PermitsRequirements vary by nationality

Key IndustriesExplore opportunities

Read full guide

Education SystemInternational schools, universities & curricula

Explore Guide

Climate

The United States features highly diverse climates due to its vast size exceeding 9 million km², spanning from tropical zones in Hawaii and South Florida to polar conditions in northern Alaska. Köppen classifications include tropical, arid, Mediterranean, humid subtropical, continental, and polar types, creating varied living conditions across regions.

Climate

Tropical, Arid

Summer

20–35°C

Winter

-15–20°C

Sunshine

3500+ hrs/yr

6 distinct climate regions — see full guide for details

Read full guide

Demographics in United States

Life Expectancy

77.0

Population

329,484,123

Religions

Christianity (Protestant)

46.5%

Non-religious

22.8%

Christianity (Catholic)

20.8%

Judaism

1.9%

Islam

0.9%

Ethnic Composition

By race: 61.6% White 12.4% Black 6% Asian 1.1% Native American 0.2% Pacific Islander 10.2% two or more races 8.4% other

N/A

What Expats Say About United StatesBETA

Research in Progress

We're currently analyzing expat perspectives for United States. Check back soon for insights from real experiences!

We're gradually rolling out this feature and continuously improving the insights. The data is based on real expat discussions and will become more comprehensive over time.

Transportation & Infrastructure in United States

Public TransitAvailable in major cities

AirportsInternational connectivity

InfrastructureRoad & rail networks

Read full guide

Long-term Expat Guide for United States

Visa Requirements

Relocating to the United States involves navigating a complex immigration system. Understanding the various visa categories and residency pathways is crucial for long-term expats.

Visa-Free Entry and Tourist Stay Limits

Many passport holders, including citizens of the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and numerous other countries, may be eligible to enter the U.S. for tourism or business purposes without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This requires obtaining an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to travel. An ESTA allows for stays of up to 90 days per visit. Overstaying the 90-day limit can lead to serious immigration consequences, including future travel bans.

Temporary Residency Tracks

Temporary residency in the U.S. is typically granted through non-immigrant visas, each designed for specific purposes:

Work Visas: These are employer-sponsored and category-specific:
- H-1B (Specialty Occupations): For professionals in fields requiring a bachelor's degree or higher. Subject to an annual cap and lottery system, making it highly competitive. (As of April 2026, the H-1B cap remains in place, and demand continues to exceed supply).
- L-1A/L-1B (Intra-company Transferee): For managers, executives, or employees with specialized knowledge transferring from an overseas office to a U.S. affiliate.
- O-1 (Extraordinary Ability): For individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics.
- TN (NAFTA Professionals): For Canadian and Mexican citizens in specific professional occupations.
- E-1/E-2 (Treaty Trader/Investor): For citizens of countries with which the U.S. maintains treaties of commerce and navigation, engaging in substantial trade or making a significant investment.
Study Visas:
- F-1 (Academic Student): For full-time students pursuing academic degrees at accredited U.S. institutions.
- M-1 (Vocational Student): For students pursuing vocational or non-academic training.
Family Visas:
- K-1 (Fiancé(e) Visa): Allows a U.S. citizen's fiancé(e) to enter the U.S. to marry within 90 days.
- K-3 (Spouse Visa): For the spouse of a U.S. citizen while their immigrant visa petition is pending.
Investment Visas: Beyond the E-2, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers a path to permanent residency for foreign investors who make a significant capital investment (typically $800,000 or $1,050,000 USD, depending on the target employment area) in a U.S. commercial enterprise and create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.

Permanent Residency (Green Card)

Permanent residency, commonly known as a Green Card, grants the holder the right to live and work permanently in the U.S. Eligibility pathways include:

Family-Sponsored: For immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, unmarried children under 21, parents) or certain other family members (e.g., adult children, siblings) of U.S. citizens and Green Card holders. Processing times vary significantly based on the relationship and country of origin, ranging from several months to over a decade for some categories.
Employment-Based: For individuals with specific job skills, advanced degrees, or extraordinary abilities, often requiring a U.S. employer sponsor. Categories include EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-4, and EB-5. Processing times can range from 1-2 years to many years, depending on the category and country of origin's visa bulletin priority dates.
Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (Diversity Lottery): An annual lottery making up to 55,000 immigrant visas available to persons from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the U.S.

Process: Generally involves filing an immigrant petition (e.g., Form I-130 for family, Form I-140 for employment) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once approved and a visa number is available, applicants either adjust status within the U.S. (Form I-485) or undergo consular processing at a U.S. embassy/consulate abroad.

Citizenship

After obtaining permanent residency, individuals may apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization. Key requirements include:

Being at least 18 years old.
Having been a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
Demonstrating continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S.
Being a person of good moral character.
Demonstrating an understanding of English (reading, writing, speaking).
Passing a civics test on U.S. history and government.
Taking an Oath of Allegiance to the U.S.

Timeline: The naturalization process typically takes 6-18 months after filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.

Work Permits and Employment Authorization

Most non-immigrant visas (e.g., H-1B, L-1, O-1) inherently grant employment authorization tied to a specific employer. Other categories, such as F-1 students (for Optional Practical Training - OPT) or certain dependents (e.g., H-4 spouses of H-1B holders with approved I-140), may need to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), Form I-765, from USCIS. An EAD is a physical card that proves eligibility to work in the U.S.

Digital Nomad or Remote Worker Visa Programmes

As of April 2026, the United States does not offer a specific digital nomad or remote worker visa program. Individuals wishing to work remotely for a foreign employer while residing in the U.S. generally need to qualify for an existing work visa category (which typically requires a U.S. employer sponsor) or a visa that permits incidental business activities (like a B-1 business visitor visa for very short-term, specific business purposes, but not for performing productive work for a foreign employer while residing in the U.S.). For long-term stays, a traditional employment-based visa or a Green Card is usually required.

Student Visas

F-1 Visa: For academic studies. Requires acceptance into a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved school. Students must maintain full-time enrollment.
M-1 Visa: For vocational studies. Similar requirements but for non-academic programs.

Family Reunion and Dependent Visas

Many non-immigrant visa categories have corresponding dependent visas for spouses and unmarried children under 21 (e.g., H-4 for H-1B dependents, L-2 for L-1 dependents, F-2 for F-1 dependents). These visas allow family members to reside in the U.S. with the primary visa holder, though work authorization for dependents varies by category.

Application Process

Where to Apply: For most non-immigrant visas, applications are made at a U.S. embassy or consulate in the applicant's home country. For petitions (e.g., I-130, I-140, I-485, I-765), applications are filed with USCIS within the U.S.
Documentation: Varies significantly by visa type but commonly includes a valid passport, visa application forms (e.g., DS-160), photographs, proof of funds, educational/professional qualifications, employer letters, birth/marriage certificates, and police clearance certificates.
Fees: Visa application fees vary (e.g., $185 USD for most non-petition-based non-immigrant visas as of early 2026, but subject to change). USCIS petition and application fees can range from hundreds to thousands of USD. Always check the official USCIS and Department of State websites for the most current fee schedules.
Timelines: Can range from a few weeks for certain non-immigrant visas to several years for some immigrant visa categories, depending on demand, country of origin, and processing backlogs. Check the USCIS website for current processing times and the Department of State's Visa Bulletin for immigrant visa availability.

Renewal Procedures

Non-immigrant visas typically have expiration dates and may be renewable, often requiring a new application process. Green Cards must be renewed every 10 years (Form I-90), or earlier if conditional (e.g., 2-year conditional Green Cards for spouses of U.S. citizens or EB-5 investors require filing Form I-751 or I-829, respectively, to remove conditions).

Common Pitfalls and Refusal Reasons

Misrepresentation or Fraud: Providing false information is a severe offense.
Overstaying a Previous Visa: Can lead to bars from re-entry.
Criminal History: Certain convictions can render an applicant inadmissible.
Inadmissibility: Health-related grounds, security grounds, public charge concerns (insufficient financial resources).
Lack of Strong Ties to Home Country (for non-immigrant visas): Failure to convince the consular officer of intent to return home after a temporary stay.
Incorrect Documentation: Incomplete or incorrect applications are a common cause for delays or refusals.

It is highly recommended to consult with an experienced immigration attorney for personalized advice, especially for complex cases or long-term residency plans.

Tax Obligations

Understanding U.S. tax obligations is critical for foreigners, as the system is complex and applies to residents and non-residents differently. The U.S. tax year runs from January 1st to December 31st.

Tax Residency Rules

A foreigner generally becomes a U.S. tax resident if they meet one of the following criteria:

Green Card Test: You are a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) at any time during the calendar year.
Substantial Presence Test: You are physically present in the U.S. for at least 31 days during the current year AND 183 days over a three-year period, calculated as:
- All days in the current year.
- 1/3 of the days in the first preceding year.
- 1/6 of the days in the second preceding year. Certain individuals (e.g., F, J, M, Q visa holders for limited periods) may be exempt from counting days for the Substantial Presence Test.

U.S. tax residents are taxed on their worldwide income, regardless of where it is earned. Non-residents are generally only taxed on income effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business, and certain U.S. source passive income.

Income Tax Rates and Brackets

Federal Income Tax: The U.S. has a progressive federal income tax system with multiple brackets. For 2025 (filing in 2026), the rates range from 10% to 37% for individuals, depending on income level and filing status. These brackets are adjusted annually for inflation. Non-residents are generally subject to a flat 30% tax on certain U.S. source passive income, unless reduced by a tax treaty, and progressive rates on effectively connected income.
State Income Tax: Most states also impose their own income taxes, which vary widely. Some states have no income tax (e.g., Florida, Texas, Washington), while others have progressive rates (e.g., California, New York) or flat rates. Local income taxes may also apply in some cities or counties.

Double Taxation Treaties

The U.S. has comprehensive income tax treaties with many countries (e.g., Canada, Mexico, UK, Germany, France, Japan, Australia, China, India). These treaties aim to prevent double taxation of income by allowing residents of one country to be taxed at a reduced rate or be exempt from U.S. taxes on certain types of income. Treaties can also affect tax residency status. It is crucial to consult the specific treaty between the U.S. and your home country.

Social Security and Pension Contributions (FICA Taxes)

U.S. tax residents (and some non-residents) are generally subject to Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) taxes, which fund Social Security and Medicare. For 2025, these are:

Social Security: 6.2% on earnings up to an annual limit (e.g., $168,600 USD for 2024, adjusted annually).
Medicare: 1.45% on all earnings, with an additional 0.9% Medicare tax on earned income above certain thresholds ($200,000 for single filers). Employers match these contributions, so the total FICA tax is 15.3% (12.4% Social Security, 2.9% Medicare). Self-employed individuals pay both employer and employee portions (self-employment tax).

Totalization Agreements: The U.S. has Totalization Agreements with several countries (e.g., Canada, UK, Germany, Japan) to prevent double taxation of Social Security contributions for individuals who work in both countries during their careers. These agreements determine which country's social security system an individual is subject to.

Tax Filing Requirements, Deadlines, and How to File

Filing Deadline: The federal income tax filing deadline is generally April 15th of the year following the tax year (e.g., April 15, 2026, for the 2025 tax year). If April 15th falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline shifts to the next business day. Extensions can be requested, typically extending the deadline to October 15th, but this does not extend the time to pay taxes due.
How to File: Most individuals file Form 1040 (U.S. Individual Income Tax Return) with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Non-residents typically file Form 1040-NR. Many taxpayers use tax software or engage a tax professional. The IRS offers free e-filing options for eligible taxpayers.

Tax Deductions and Allowances Available to Expats

Expats who are U.S. tax residents can claim standard deductions or itemized deductions (e.g., for state and local taxes, mortgage interest, charitable contributions). They may also be eligible for various tax credits (e.g., child tax credit). For U.S. citizens or Green Card holders living abroad, the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) and Foreign Tax Credit can reduce or eliminate U.S. tax on foreign income.

Property Ownership Tax for Foreigners

Property taxes in the U.S. are levied at the state and local levels (county, city, school district) and vary significantly. They are generally based on the assessed value of the property. Foreigners owning property in the U.S. are subject to these taxes, just like U.S. citizens. Additionally, the sale of U.S. real property by a foreign person is subject to the Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA), which requires withholding a portion of the sales price (typically 15%) to ensure U.S. tax obligations are met.

Capital Gains Tax

Capital gains (profits from the sale of assets like stocks or real estate) are subject to federal income tax. The rates depend on how long the asset was held:

Short-term Capital Gains: For assets held one year or less, taxed at ordinary income tax rates.
Long-term Capital Gains: For assets held more than one year, typically taxed at preferential rates of 0%, 15%, or 20% for 2025, depending on the taxpayer's income bracket. State capital gains taxes may also apply.

VAT and Other Indirect Taxes Affecting Daily Life

The U.S. does not have a federal Value Added Tax (VAT). Instead, sales tax is levied by most states and many local jurisdictions on the sale of goods and some services. Sales tax rates vary widely, from 0% in some states (e.g., Delaware, Oregon, Montana, New Hampshire) to over 10% in others when state and local rates are combined. Other indirect taxes include excise taxes on specific goods (e.g., gasoline, tobacco, alcohol) and hotel occupancy taxes.

Wealth or Net Worth Taxes

The U.S. does not impose a federal wealth or net worth tax. Some states may have specific taxes on certain types of property, but a broad annual tax on an individual's total net worth is not part of the U.S. tax system.

When to Engage a Local Tax Advisor

It is highly recommended to engage a qualified U.S. tax advisor (e.g., a Certified Public Accountant - CPA) if you:

Are a U.S. tax resident with foreign income or assets.
Are a non-resident with U.S. source income.
Own a business in the U.S.
Have complex investment portfolios.
Are unsure about your tax residency status or treaty benefits.
Are subject to FIRPTA rules.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with U.S. tax laws can result in significant penalties, including:

Failure-to-File Penalty: Typically 5% of the unpaid taxes for each month or part of a month that a tax return is late, up to 25%.
Failure-to-Pay Penalty: Typically 0.5% of the unpaid taxes for each month or part of a month that taxes remain unpaid, up to 25%.
Accuracy-Related Penalties: For underpayments due to negligence or substantial understatement of income, typically 20% of the underpayment.
Interest: Charged on underpayments and unpaid taxes.
Criminal Charges: In cases of willful tax evasion, severe fines and imprisonment are possible.

Additionally, there are significant penalties for failing to report foreign bank accounts and other foreign financial assets (e.g., FBAR, Form 8938).

Healthcare

The U.S. healthcare system is predominantly private, complex, and can be very expensive without adequate insurance. Understanding how it works is crucial for any expat.

Healthcare System Overview

The U.S. healthcare system is a mix of private and public programs, but primarily relies on private health insurance. It is funded through a combination of employer-sponsored plans, individual private insurance purchases, and government programs like Medicare (primarily for those 65 and older, or with certain disabilities) and Medicaid (for low-income individuals and families). There is no universal public healthcare system that covers all residents.

Access Rights for Foreigners

Tourists and Short-Term Visitors: Generally have no access to public healthcare programs. They are expected to have comprehensive travel health insurance from their home country or purchase a short-term private policy for their stay. Without insurance, they are responsible for 100% of medical costs, which can be exorbitant.
Residents (Green Card Holders) and Long-Term Workers: Are generally required to have health insurance. They can obtain coverage through their employer (the most common route), purchase a plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace (established by the Affordable Care Act - ACA), or directly from private insurers. Eligibility for Medicare or Medicaid is typically limited to specific criteria (e.g., age, income, disability, length of residency) and generally not available to new expats immediately.

Health Insurance: What is Required, What Public Coverage Covers

Requirement: Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most U.S. residents are required to have health insurance that meets minimum essential coverage standards. While there is no longer a federal penalty for not having coverage, some states may have their own mandates.
Public Coverage (Medicare/Medicaid): As mentioned, these are generally not options for new expats. Medicare is primarily for seniors and certain disabled individuals. Medicaid is for low-income individuals and families, with eligibility varying by state. Neither is a general 'public healthcare system' for all residents.

How to Register with the Public Healthcare System as a Foreigner

For most new expats, there is no direct 'registration' with a public healthcare system in the way many European countries have. Instead, the focus is on securing private health insurance. If an expat eventually qualifies for Medicare or Medicaid (e.g., after becoming a senior citizen or meeting specific income/disability criteria), they would apply through the Social Security Administration or their state's Medicaid agency, respectively.

Private Health Insurance: Recommended Providers, Typical Costs

Private health insurance is the primary way most expats will access healthcare. Plans vary widely in terms of premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and coverage.

Recommended Providers: Major national providers include Blue Cross Blue Shield (various state plans), Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Kaiser Permanente (in specific regions), and Humana. Many international insurance providers also offer plans for expats in the U.S.
Typical Costs: Premiums for individual private health insurance plans can range significantly, from $300 to over $1,000 USD per month (as of April 2026), depending on age, location, plan type (e.g., HMO, PPO), deductible, and coverage level. Family plans will be considerably more expensive. These costs are for premiums only; out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles (e.g., $1,000 - $10,000+ USD annually) and co-pays are additional.

Quality of Public vs Private Care in Practice

The quality of medical care in the U.S. is generally very high, with advanced technology, highly trained professionals, and world-renowned hospitals. There isn't a significant difference in the quality of care between facilities that accept public vs. private insurance, but rather in access, choice, and wait times. Private insurance often provides greater flexibility in choosing doctors and specialists and may lead to shorter wait times for non-emergency appointments and elective procedures.

Emergency Services

In an emergency, call 911 for an ambulance, fire, or police. Emergency rooms (ERs) in hospitals are legally required to treat anyone regardless of their ability to pay. However, emergency care is extremely expensive, and without insurance, patients will receive a substantial bill. It is critical to have insurance that covers emergency services.

Prescription Medications

Prescription medications require a doctor's prescription. Costs vary dramatically depending on the drug, pharmacy, and insurance coverage. Many insurance plans have a 'formulary' (list of covered drugs) and different tiers of co-pays. Generic medications are significantly cheaper than brand-name drugs. Without insurance, medication costs can be prohibitive.

Dental and Vision Care

Dental and vision care are generally not included in standard health insurance plans. They typically require separate, additional insurance policies or are paid for out-of-pocket. Dental insurance plans usually cover preventative care (cleanings, check-ups) fully or mostly, with partial coverage for fillings, extractions, and major procedures. Vision plans cover eye exams and contribute towards glasses or contact lenses.

Mental Health Services Available to Expats

Mental health services are increasingly recognized and covered by many health insurance plans, thanks to parity laws. Coverage can include therapy, counseling, and psychiatric services. However, finding providers, especially those who accept specific insurance plans, can sometimes be challenging. Many therapists operate on an out-of-network basis, requiring patients to pay upfront and seek reimbursement from their insurer.

Maternity Care and Childbirth Options

Maternity care and childbirth are covered by comprehensive health insurance plans. However, without insurance, the costs are extremely high, potentially tens of thousands of USD. Expats planning to have children in the U.S. must ensure their insurance plan has robust maternity coverage, as some plans (especially short-term ones) may exclude it or have waiting periods. Options include hospital births, birthing centers, and home births, with hospitals being the most common.

Vaccinations and Travel Health Requirements

There are no specific vaccination requirements for entry into the U.S. for most travelers, beyond standard immigration health checks. However, it is highly recommended that expats ensure their routine vaccinations (e.g., MMR, Tdap, influenza, COVID-19) are up-to-date. Consult with a healthcare provider for personalized vaccination advice based on your health history and planned activities in the U.S.

Gallery for United States

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Living Costs in United States

Moderate cost of living with significant regional variations; generally 20-30% cheaper than major coastal cities like New York or San Francisco.

Crime & Safety in United States

Safety varies by region, with suburban and rural areas generally safer than urban centers. Moderate crime rates with lower violent crime in most metropolitan areas.

Safety Index: 50.80 | Crime Level: 49.20

Health System in United States

Mixed private-public healthcare system with high-quality medical services but complex insurance landscape and higher out-of-pocket costs compared to universal healthcare countries.

Quality Rating: 7.5/10

Advantages in United States

Diverse job market with opportunities across multiple industries
High technological innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem
Cultural diversity and global connectivity
Advanced higher education and research institutions

Disadvantages in United States

Expensive and complex healthcare insurance system
Limited public transportation outside major cities
High income inequality and regional economic disparities
Significant student loan and education debt challenges

Retirement & Benefits in United States

Retirement VisaCheck eligibility

Healthcare AccessPublic & private options

Pension RecognitionSee guide for details

Read full guide

Legal & Administrative in United States

Residency OptionsMultiple pathways available

Property OwnershipForeign buyers welcome

Legal SystemSee full guide

Read full guide

Political Landscape & Stability

The United States is governed as a federal republic with a bicameral legislature and a president serving as both head of state and government. The 2025 administration under President Donald J. Trump has initiated Project 2025, aiming to centralize executive power and reshape federal agencies, leading to increased tensions between federal and state governments and significant policy shifts in immigration, civil rights, and governance.

System

Federal republic

Stability

Moderately Stable

Democracy

Flawed Democracy

Legal System

Common law system with federal and state jurisdictions

Read full guide

Environment & Sustainability in United States

Air QualitySee detailed assessment

Green SpacesParks & nature areas

SustainabilityEnvironmental policies

Read full guide

Your United States Roadmap

40+ page relocation analysis tailored to your profile.

Custom Tax & Cost Projection
District Matching for your Lifestyle
Vetted Local Partner Directory

United States at a Glance

Capital

Washington, D.C.

Languages

English

UN Member

Yes

Major Cities

New York,Los Angeles,Brooklyn,Chicago

Quick Facts for United States

Population

329,484,123

Currency

USD

Timezones

UTC-12:00 to UTC-04:00, UTC+10:00, UTC+12:00

Calling Code

Week starts on

Sunday

Gini Coefficient

41.4 (2018)

Traffic side

right side

Location

Map coordinates not available for this location

Data Source: Safety, crime, and quality metrics are sourced from Numbeo, a crowd-sourced global database of reported data.

All scores are relative comparisons on a 0-100 scale, where 50 = global average. Higher scores mean better than average, lower scores mean worse than average.

Relocating to the United States involves navigating a complex immigration system. Understanding the various visa categories and residency pathways is crucial for long-term expats.

Visa-Free Entry and Tourist Stay Limits

Temporary Residency Tracks

Temporary residency in the U.S. is typically granted through non-immigrant visas, each designed for specific purposes:

Work Visas: These are employer-sponsored and category-specific:
- H-1B (Specialty Occupations): For professionals in fields requiring a bachelor's degree or higher. Subject to an annual cap and lottery system, making it highly competitive. (As of April 2026, the H-1B cap remains in place, and demand continues to exceed supply).
- L-1A/L-1B (Intra-company Transferee): For managers, executives, or employees with specialized knowledge transferring from an overseas office to a U.S. affiliate.
- O-1 (Extraordinary Ability): For individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics.
- TN (NAFTA Professionals): For Canadian and Mexican citizens in specific professional occupations.
- E-1/E-2 (Treaty Trader/Investor): For citizens of countries with which the U.S. maintains treaties of commerce and navigation, engaging in substantial trade or making a significant investment.
Study Visas:
- F-1 (Academic Student): For full-time students pursuing academic degrees at accredited U.S. institutions.
- M-1 (Vocational Student): For students pursuing vocational or non-academic training.
Family Visas:
- K-1 (Fiancé(e) Visa): Allows a U.S. citizen's fiancé(e) to enter the U.S. to marry within 90 days.
- K-3 (Spouse Visa): For the spouse of a U.S. citizen while their immigrant visa petition is pending.
Investment Visas: Beyond the E-2, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers a path to permanent residency for foreign investors who make a significant capital investment (typically $800,000 or $1,050,000 USD, depending on the target employment area) in a U.S. commercial enterprise and create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.

Permanent Residency (Green Card)

Permanent residency, commonly known as a Green Card, grants the holder the right to live and work permanently in the U.S. Eligibility pathways include:

Family-Sponsored: For immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, unmarried children under 21, parents) or certain other family members (e.g., adult children, siblings) of U.S. citizens and Green Card holders. Processing times vary significantly based on the relationship and country of origin, ranging from several months to over a decade for some categories.
Employment-Based: For individuals with specific job skills, advanced degrees, or extraordinary abilities, often requiring a U.S. employer sponsor. Categories include EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-4, and EB-5. Processing times can range from 1-2 years to many years, depending on the category and country of origin's visa bulletin priority dates.
Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (Diversity Lottery): An annual lottery making up to 55,000 immigrant visas available to persons from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the U.S.

Citizenship

After obtaining permanent residency, individuals may apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization. Key requirements include:

Being at least 18 years old.
Having been a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
Demonstrating continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S.
Being a person of good moral character.
Demonstrating an understanding of English (reading, writing, speaking).
Passing a civics test on U.S. history and government.
Taking an Oath of Allegiance to the U.S.

Timeline: The naturalization process typically takes 6-18 months after filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.

Work Permits and Employment Authorization

Digital Nomad or Remote Worker Visa Programmes

Student Visas

F-1 Visa: For academic studies. Requires acceptance into a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved school. Students must maintain full-time enrollment.
M-1 Visa: For vocational studies. Similar requirements but for non-academic programs.

Family Reunion and Dependent Visas

Application Process

Where to Apply: For most non-immigrant visas, applications are made at a U.S. embassy or consulate in the applicant's home country. For petitions (e.g., I-130, I-140, I-485, I-765), applications are filed with USCIS within the U.S.
Documentation: Varies significantly by visa type but commonly includes a valid passport, visa application forms (e.g., DS-160), photographs, proof of funds, educational/professional qualifications, employer letters, birth/marriage certificates, and police clearance certificates.
Fees: Visa application fees vary (e.g., $185 USD for most non-petition-based non-immigrant visas as of early 2026, but subject to change). USCIS petition and application fees can range from hundreds to thousands of USD. Always check the official USCIS and Department of State websites for the most current fee schedules.
Timelines: Can range from a few weeks for certain non-immigrant visas to several years for some immigrant visa categories, depending on demand, country of origin, and processing backlogs. Check the USCIS website for current processing times and the Department of State's Visa Bulletin for immigrant visa availability.

Renewal Procedures

Common Pitfalls and Refusal Reasons

Misrepresentation or Fraud: Providing false information is a severe offense.
Overstaying a Previous Visa: Can lead to bars from re-entry.
Criminal History: Certain convictions can render an applicant inadmissible.
Inadmissibility: Health-related grounds, security grounds, public charge concerns (insufficient financial resources).
Lack of Strong Ties to Home Country (for non-immigrant visas): Failure to convince the consular officer of intent to return home after a temporary stay.
Incorrect Documentation: Incomplete or incorrect applications are a common cause for delays or refusals.

It is highly recommended to consult with an experienced immigration attorney for personalized advice, especially for complex cases or long-term residency plans.