For many international nurses, arriving in the United States is the moment when years of preparation finally becomes reality. After completing exams, gathering documents, and waiting through the immigration process, you're stepping into the next chapter of your career. It's normal to feel excited, nervous, and even a little overwhelmed. 

The good news is that knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident from the moment your plane lands. Here's a realistic look at what your first 48 hours in the U.S. may look like, from immigration and customs to settling into housing and preparing for your new life. 

Before You Travel 

A smooth arrival starts before you even get to the airport. Taking time to organize your documents and review travel requirements can make your journey much easier 

Keep Important Documents in Your Carry-On 

Do not pack important documents in your checked luggage. Keep them with you throughout your journey in case immigration officers need to review them. WWHS recommends traveling with: 

• Passport/Visa 
• Unopened Visa Packet 
• Immigration and Academic documents 
• Driver's license or International Driving Permit (IDP) 
• Prescription medications and supporting documentation 
• Credit card for hotel check-in 
• Arrival instructions and emergency contact information 

Complete Pre-Departure Requirements 

Before you travel, be sure to complete any required exit clearance or pre-departure requirements in your home country. Requirements vary by country. For example, nurses departing from the Philippines may need to complete the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) before departure. 

Prepare Your Finances 

It's also a good idea to notify your bank that you'll be traveling internationally and ensure you have access to funds after arrival. 

You may also want to consider opening a U.S. bank account before you arrive. WWHS partners with Advancial Credit Union, which allows many international nurses to open an account before receiving their Social Security Number (SSN), helping make your transition smoother and giving you a place to transfer funds before arrival. 

Plan to Stay Connected 

If your phone is eSIM-compatible, consider setting up a U.S. eSIM plan before you travel. Providers such as MobiMatter, Mint Mobile, and Visible can help you stay connected upon arrival, making it easier to communicate with your WWHS Relocation Advisor, access transportation, and stay in touch with family and friends. 

What Not to Pack 

Certain items may not be permitted when entering the United States. Bringing restricted items can lead to delays during customs inspections and may result in the items being confiscated. 

Before packing, review your airline's prohibited items list and avoid bringing: 

• Fresh meat or fish 
• Fruits or seeds 
• Plants 
• Herbal medications that may not meet U.S. import requirements 
• Other restricted items prohibited by your airline or U.S. authorities 

Day of Travel Reminders 

Travel days can be stressful, especially when you're making an international move. Give yourself plenty of time at the airport by arriving two to three hours before your flight. If a flight is delayed or canceled, contact the airline immediately and notify your WWHS Relocation Advisor as soon as possible. 

Arriving in the United States 

Congratulations, you've landed! 

Your first stop will be Immigration or Passport Control at your first U.S. port of entry. Follow airport signs for international arrivals and have your documents ready. 

Note: Some U.S. ports of entry are located outside of the United States through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Preclearance program. This means you may complete immigration and customs inspections before boarding your flight to the United States. If you are traveling through a preclearance location, your arrival process in the U.S. may be different. You can view the current list of CBP Preclearance locations here: CBP Preclearance Locations 

You may be asked to submit your unopened visa packet to the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officer. Before proceeding, make sure your passport and visa have been properly processed. Do not leave the CBP inspection area until the officer has completed your entry processing and collected your unopened visa packet. These are important steps in completing your entry into the United States. 

Many international nurses feel nervous about this part of the process, especially if it's their first time traveling to the United States. That's completely normal. In most cases, the process is straightforward, and the officer is simply verifying your documents and travel plans. Answer any questions honestly and confidently. 

The immigration officer may ask questions such as: 

• What is the purpose of your visit? 
• Which healthcare facility will you be working for? 
• Where will you be staying? 
• Is this your first time in the United States? 

Collecting Your Luggage and Clearing Customs 

After completing immigration, you'll proceed to baggage claim to collect your luggage before moving through customs. Most travelers move through this process quickly, but customs officers may inspect luggage or ask additional questions if necessary. 

One important reminder: If you are carrying more than $10,000 USD in cash, you are required to declare it to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Once you've cleared customs, you'll officially enter the airport arrivals area and begin the next stage of your journey. 

Getting to Your Temporary Housing 

After a long international flight, you're probably ready to rest. 

To help make the transition easier, WWHS provides an Uber voucher prior to departure for transportation from the airport. Candidates are encouraged to download the Uber app and create an account before arriving in the United States. A credit card is required to create an account. 

If you're traveling with children and need car seats, be sure to communicate that in advance. Infants and young children require a car seat when traveling in a taxi, Uber, or other vehicle in the United States, so it's important to plan ahead for your transportation needs. 

Check In 

Communication during travel is important. 

After arriving, your relocation team may ask you to confirm: 

• Your arrival at the airport 
• Any transportation or pickup issues 
• Your arrival at temporary housing 

These updates help ensure you arrive safely and allow the team to assist quickly if any issues arise. 

Your First Night in the U.S. 

After a long international journey, don't feel pressure to accomplish everything immediately.   

Your first night should focus on: 

• Settling into your housing 
• Staying hydrated 
• Eating a meal 
• Letting family and friends know you've arrived safely 
• Getting adjusted to the local time zone 

It's normal to experience jet lag and fatigue after international travel. Don't worry if you don't feel fully adjusted right away.

Day 1: Settling In and Getting Oriented 

Your first full day in the United States will likely be focused on getting organized, becoming familiar with your surroundings, and preparing for the weeks ahead. 

One of your first priorities may be scheduling a post-arrival call with your WWHS Relocation Advisor. This is an opportunity to review next steps, ask questions, and ensure you're on track for onboarding and orientation activities. 

You may also want to spend some time getting familiar with your new community by: 

• Visiting a local grocery store 
• Locating nearby pharmacies and healthcare services 
• Finding banks and ATMs in your area 
• Exploring transportation options 
• Identifying your route to work 
• Researching permanent housing options 
• Exploring local school districts, if you're relocating with children 
• Purchasing household essentials 

Taking care of these simple tasks early can help you feel more comfortable and confident in your new surroundings. 

Don't feel pressure to accomplish everything immediately. The goal is simply to begin settling into your new environment and adjusting to life in the United States.

Day 2: Preparing for Life in the U.S. 

By your second day, you may begin focusing on the practical steps that will help you establish yourself in your new community. 

Planning for Your Social Security Number 

Obtaining your Social Security Number (SSN) is an important step in working and living in the United States. For many nurses entering on an EB-3 immigrant visa, the SSN application process is typically initiated automatically after completing inspection with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at their port of entry. Candidates entering on other visa types, such as H-1B visas, may need to apply for an SSN in person at a local Social Security Administration (SSA) office after arrival. 

Because requirements can vary based on your visa category and individual circumstances, be sure to work closely with your WWHS Relocation Advisor, who will guide you through the next steps and help ensure you have the information needed to obtain your SSN. 

Understanding Transportation Options 

Transportation needs vary across the United States. Some communities have reliable public transportation, while others may require access to a personal vehicle. 

While many transportation decisions won't be made immediately, your first few days are a good time to begin learning about transportation options in your area and planning for future needs. 

Before and after arrival, it's helpful to research: 

• Public transportation options in your area 
• State driver's license requirements 
• Vehicle ownership costs 
• Auto insurance requirements 

WWHS strongly recommends obtaining a driver's license and International Driving Permit (IDP) before arrival whenever possible. 

If you plan to purchase a vehicle after arrival, don't be discouraged if you haven't yet established U.S. credit. WWHS partners with organizations such as Advancial and International AutoSource (IAS) to help eligible candidates explore financing, vehicle purchasing, and insurance options. Your WWHS Relocation Advisor can provide additional information. 

For additional guidance, check out these resources: 

• Guide to Public Transportation in the U.S. 
• International Nurse Guide to Driving in the U.S. 
• Buying A Car in the U.S. 

Setting Up Your Finances 

If you haven't already opened a U.S. bank account, now may be a good time to begin exploring your options. Having a U.S. bank account can make it easier to receive payments, pay bills, establish credit, and manage everyday expenses as you settle into your new community. 

If you opened an account before arrival, consider taking time to familiarize yourself with online banking features, debit card access, and local ATM locations. 

It's also common to have more than one bank account. As your needs change, you may choose to open additional accounts for savings, shared expenses, or other financial goals. 

Beginning Your Housing Search 

If you're staying in temporary housing, your next step may be to search for a permanent place to live. Many international nurses are surprised to learn that U.S. apartments often require credit checks. 

Without an established U.S. credit history, some landlords may request: 

• Additional security deposits 
• Advance rent payments 
• A guarantor or co-signer 

Starting your research early can help you compare neighborhoods, understand rental requirements, and find housing that fits your budget and lifestyle. 

Give Yourself Time to Adjust 

Moving to a new country is more than navigating airports and paperwork. 

During your first few weeks, you'll likely notice differences in: 

• Food 
• Transportation 
• Weather 
• Communication styles 
• Healthcare systems 
• Banking processes 

Some moments will feel exciting. Others may feel challenging. That's completely normal. Building a new life takes time, and every international nurses transition is different. 

You're Not Navigating This Journey Alone 

At WorldWide HealthStaff Solutions (WWHS), we've helped more than 12,000 international healthcare professionals build careers in the United States. For more than 25 years, we've supported candidates through recruitment, immigration, and relocation. 

Your journey doesn't end when your plane lands. In many ways, it's just the beginning. With preparation, patience, and the right support, you can approach your first 48 hours in the U.S. with confidence and focus on what matters most: building your future and beginning the next chapter of your nursing career. 

Ready to start your U.S. nursing journey? Sign up with WWHS today and let us guide you every step of the way.