The Global USA Green Card Organization (GUSGC) is proud to provide you with our third ebook, Adjusting to your New Life in the United States, as a helpful guide to your new life should you win the Green Card Lottery. While you are likely interested in immigrating to the United States on account of the country’s democratic values, freedoms, and wealth of opportunities, we understand that leaving your friends and family in your home country is no easy task. In addition to highlighting important procedures, organizations, laws, and more, we will also provide you with tips on how to stay connected to your loved ones. Thankfully, the world is much smaller than it used to be, and it is easier than ever to communicate with people all over the world. GUSGC wishes you the best of luck and happiness in establishing your new American life. Note: The facts and figures in this ebook are accurate and up to date upon its publication in March 2017, but are subject to change in the future.

Rights & Responsibilities: A Brief Review As a legal permanent resident (LPR) of the United States, you are entitled to the majority of the rights that are granted to American citizens, including the rights to:

● live anywhere in the US with the freedoms of movement and relocation ● work and establish a new business ● own a car, house, and associated assets ● enroll in public school ● receive Social Security and Medicare benefits (if eligible) ● apply for spousal and child visas ● enlist in certain branches of the US military ● acquire a driver’s license (nationally recognized proof of identity) ● travel internationally with the security of accepted return ● apply for American citizenship after five years of permanent residency

These benefits of legal permanent residency come with responsibilities on your part. In order to uphold good standing and retain your Green Card, you must:

● obey local, state, and federal laws ● pay local, state, and federal taxes ● carry your un-expired Green Card at all times ● inform USCIS of any changes to your address

Introduction to the US Government The United States of America is a democratic republic “for the people, by the people” (as indicated in former President Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address).

Public officials are voted for by American citizens in general elections on the federal, state, and local levels. Three Branches The United States federal government is divided amongst three branches of power, all of which are based in the nation’s capital of Washington, DC:

● Executive: in charge of maintaining the law of the land. Powers are granted in the following descending order:

○ United States President ○ United States Vice President ○ Executive Office (which includes the President’s Chief of Staff and the White

House Press Secretary) ○ Cabinet members (which includes department heads such as the Secretaries of

State, Defense, and the Treasury) ○ Heads of federal agencies (which includes bodies such as the Central Intelligence

Agency, Federal Reserve Commission, and the Environmental Protection Agency).

● Legislative: comprised of the Senate and House of Representatives; also known as “Congress.” Senators and representatives are elected by voters in their respective states. Members of Congress hold the power to impose legislation, declare war, approve or reject the President’s election, and conduct investigations for security measures.

● Judicial: explains and upholds laws. The most senior judiciary in the United States is the Supreme Court in Washington, DC. Courts also exist on the state, district, and local levels.

Finding a New Home As an American citizen/legal permanent resident, you have the freedom to settle anywhere in the United States with complete freedom of movement. Upon immigration, some people will opt to live with friends or family members before finding a place of their own. A temporary option may be advisable if you have neither the proper time nor funds to settle into a permanent home. Adults living in the United States typically spend around 25% of their income on housing, and it is advisable not to exceed spending over one third of your income on rent or a mortgage. Renting a House or Apartment Rent checks are typically paid monthly to your landlord/a property manager, and leases are generally signed on a yearly basis. There are many accessible options in your search to find a house or apartment to rent:

● http://www.craigslist.org is a popular website of classified listings, including a section specifically for housing.

● Keep an eye on bulletin boards in your community (markets, parks, municipal centers, etc.) advertising real estate vacancies

● Browse your neighborhood of choice and look for “For Rent” signs on properties ● Make an appointment with a local real estate agent (be sure to know the realtor’s fees

before proceeding with his/her assistance)

You have the right to live comfortably, safely, and in livable conditions. It is illegal for a landlord to discriminate against prospective tenants based on race, ethnicity, gender, religion, and disability. Check your local laws and/or contact your local housing office if you believe that you are being taken advantage of by your landlord/property manager, or if your living conditions are unsafe or not up to standard. You may find more information on your rights and obligations at http://www.hud.gov (the official US Department of Housing and Urban Development website). Applications & Leases You will need to provide proof of income and a government-issued identity card (e.g. Green Card or Social Security card) upon filling out your rental application, which must be processed and approved before you proceed to sign a lease. If you do not earn (enough) income, you may still be able to rent a property by having a co-signer, a person close to you who pledges financial and legal responsibility should you fail to pay rent. Additionally, you may be asked to pay an application fee and/or a small deposit. A lease is a legally binding contract. Be sure to read everything thoroughly, and enlist the help of a professional/confidante if you have trouble understanding its contents. You may also be asked to pay a security deposit — typically in the amount of one month’s rent — which will be returned once you move out, so long as the property is in the same condition as it was upon moving in. To avoid losing your security deposit, be sure to inform the landlord of any issues with the property before moving in. There may be a penalty cost if you terminate your lease earlier than what was agreed upon. In most cases, you must give a month’s notice before vacating the property. Additional Costs Unless certain utilities are included in your rent, you will be required to pay for additional services in addition to your rent, including but not limited to gas, water, electricity, and heat. Be sure to factor these costs into your housing budget. Supplementary services such as cable, phone, and internet will be at your own cost. Many providers offer introductory and combination packages to help you save money on these services.

You may be able to purchase renter’s insurance, which will secure your personal belongings and protect you from liabilities should certain events threaten your home’s condition (fire, flood, etc.). Buying a House or Apartment Property ownership is one of the major tenets of the American Dream. If your finances permit, you may seek a house or apartment to buy the same way you would for rentals (online ads, community bulletin boards, surveying neighborhoods, word of mouth, hiring a real estate agent, etc.). Most people have to take out a mortgage (loan) in order to buy a home. Check your options to find the best mortgage plan to align with your financial standing, as you must pay a predetermined interest rate in addition to the cost of your mortgage alone. Your mortgage application is legally binding, and will outline the “closing costs” of the terms of your agreement. Beware of loans that are “too good to be true,” as scammers may take advantage of you, especially if you are not informed about housing laws and/or your English needs improvement. Keep in mind that you must also buy homeowner’s insurance to protect your home against natural disasters, theft, and other unforeseen events that may damage your home and property. You must also pay property taxes determined by your municipality. Finding a New Job For a comprehensive guide to American employment — including but not limited to resume assistance, interview tips, methods for job hunting, and the best cities/regions for certain fields of work — please refer to the GUSGC ebook, Finding a Job in the United States. Staying in Contact with Friends and Relatives We know that it isn’t easy leaving your former life and loved ones behind in your native country. As new technologies and programs continually emerge, it’s become easier than ever to see and stay in touch with your friends and relatives around the globe. Read on for tips on how to stay connected.

Technology

● Set up internet access in your new home. Stay in touch via email and social media (both free).

● Download Skype, FaceTime (Apple users), Viber, and/or WhatsApp on your computer, tablet, and/or phone for (mostly) free international calls, texts, and video chat.

● Enroll in a special phone plan that offers discounts on international calls and/or provides family plans.

Visiting As a Green Card Holder, you are permitted to leave and reenter the country so long as you follow protocol mandated by the US government. Whether you leave the country to visit your home land or your loved ones receive visas to travel to the United States, here are a few tips on how to save money on flights:

● Sign up for email price alerts on your prospective flight routes. Off-season flights (peak periods include summer and major holidays) will often be less expensive.

● Browse aggregate airline sites such as http://www.kayak.com, http://www.skyscanner.com, and http://www.kiwi.com to compare deals from competing airlines and save.

● Enroll in frequent flyer programs to earn points towards future free/discounted travel. When booking flights, try to stay within this airline and/or its global partner alliance to maximize your point intake.

● If applying for an American credit card, look into one that provides airline points/miles for each regular purchase made. Points may often be transferred or bought in order to accumulate enough mileage for free/discounted reward travel.

Social Security Permanent residents and American citizens alike receive a personal Social Security number and card. This number is highly important, as it serves as a government-issued number for identification purposes (for school, banking, etc.). It keeps track of your earnings and potential future benefits for you and your family members. Social Security benefits may kick in upon retirement, disability, and/or death. You do not need to file an application or contact a Social Security branch if you have already requested a Social Security number/card upon visa filing. If you’ve already make your request, your card should arrive in the mail to the residential address you listed to receive your Green Card. If you have not received your Social Security card after a three week period, contact the Social Security Administration right away. If you are going to a Social Security office, remember to bring your

● Birth certificate ● Official document proving immigrant status (e.g. Green Card, visa label, immigration

stamp) Social Security contacts: http://www.socialsecurity.gov - “Other Languages” section for non-English speakers http://www.segurosocial.gov/espanol 1-800-772-1213 (7 AM-7 PM) - Free interpreting services are available Healthcare It is essential to arrange healthcare as soon as possible upon immigration.

Payment Healthcare must be paid for independently (“out of pocket”) or through an insurance plan. Some employers offer their employees special healthcare packages as part of their work agreement, which may allow that employee’s family members to receive coverage under that plan as well. The monthly cost of insurance is called a “premium,” all or part of which may be paid for by your employer. A payment directly to your doctor (through insurance) is called a “co-payment,” while some doctors may bill your health insurance provider directly. Health insurance is vital, as you may fall into debt from large costs for services and medicine; additionally, you may run the risk of not being able to properly care for your own health as well as that of your family. Additional assistance may be available and varies by state. Certain populations including the disabled, low-income children, and pregnant women can often benefit from this governmental aid. For low-income families, most communities have access to a low-cost or free healthcare facility in the area. Visit http://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov to find one in your neighborhood. To adequately research your healthcare options, visit http://www.healthcare.gov and http://www.healthfinder.gov. Emergencies If you or a family member need(s) care urgently, go to the nearest emergency room. By law, hospitals must treat patients with medical emergencies, regardless of their ability to pay. You will be charged for the visit, however, and may have to take a significant amount of time to pay the bill in full. Medicare Medicare is a federally subsidized program that provides healthcare to citizens and permanent residents over the age of 65 and under the age of 65 with specific disabilities, as well as those suffering from kidney failure.

Coverage varies with the following parts of Medicare:

● Part A: covers inpatient care (at hospitals, nursing facilities, home healthcare). Eligible candidates for Medicare may receive Part A at no cost if you have worked over 10 years in the United States and have paid your Medicare taxes. Part A may also be available by paying a premium.

● Part B: covers services, outpatient visits, and certain medical equipment. It is available by paying a premium.

● Part D: covers prescription drugs to help reduce the cost of medicine. This part is voluntary yet can be available by paying an extra premium each month.

To see if you qualify for Medicare coverage or to learn more about the program, visit http://www.medicare.gov. Medicaid Medicaid is sponsored by both the federal and state governments, and covers low-income residents. New immigrants do not qualify to receive Medicaid until they have lived in the US for over five years and meet specific criteria. To learn more about the program, visit http://www.medicaid.gov. Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) CHIP may be available to teenagers, children, and infants who do not have health insurance and whose parents’ income is within a predetermined range. CHIP accessibility varies by state, yet the program usually covers the cost of visits to the doctor, hospital, and pharmacy. To learn more about CHIP in your state, visit http://www.insurekidsnow.gov.

Additional Federal Benefits Depending on your income level, immigration status, and time spent as a permanent resident in the US, you and your family members may qualify to receive other services and benefits provided by the federal government. These include the following:

● Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): provides funds to help purchase food at grocery stores. (http://www.fns.usda.gov/snap)

● Temporary Assistance for Needy Families: provides aid and job opportunities to low-income families (http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ofa/programs/tanf)

● Aid for Survivors of Domestic Violence: services including access to shelters and/or SNAP. (http://www.womenshealth.gov/violence-against-women)

● For Disabled Immigrants: may receive benefits from Medicaid, SNAP, and Supplemental Security Income. (http://www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi)

● Career Centers: offer training referrals, career advice, access to job listings, and more. English classes and skills trainings may also be available. (http://www.careeronestop.org, http://www.doleta.gov)

Childcare Babies and infants must be properly cared for and supervised, as well as older children who need adult supervision before and/or after school and on weekends. Legal consequences may arise for improper childcare, which vary by each state’s child protective services agency. There are many types of childcare that vary in cost and specialized attention, including the following:

● Private care in your home or the caregiver’s ● Sharing childcare responsibilities with family members, friends, and/or local families ● Day care in the caregiver’s home with other children ● Centers run by schools, community centers, religious organizations, etc. with larger

groups of children supervised by multiple caregivers meeting state standards (https://www.usa.gov/child-care#item-37262)

● “Early Start” and “Head Start” - federally sponsored programs for children of low-income families (https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/hslc)

Don’t forget that you have the right to ensure the quality of caregivers, no matter if they are privately hired in your home or sponsored by a federal program. It’s wise to supervise initial visits and ask for references. Immediately report wrongdoing and safety hazards.

Personal Finance Banking You should open a bank account locally for easy access to funds, and so that your money is protected by a registered institution. Upon registration, you must provide proof of identity (i.e. Green Card or a state-issued driver’s license). You may open an account on your own or with your spouse. The most popular types of bank accounts are checking accounts and savings accounts. Checking accounts are for funds that can be easily deposited and withdrawn (via checks, debit cards, ATMs, and in-person or digital withdrawals), while savings accounts are typically for long-term planning that may yield interest as time passes. In lieu of or in addition to banks, your employer may provide access to a credit union. Credit unions are very similar to banks, but some may offer additional services. Both institutions have a variety of options and offerings that differentiate themselves from one another (hours, locations, fees, international resources, wire transfers, etc.). It’s wise to do proper research and adequate planning to see which option best works for you and your own financial needs. It’s highly suggested to enroll with an institution that is a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or is insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), as your money will be protected up to the amount of $250,000. Credit Cards Certain high-cost purchases must be made by a credit card (from a private company such as Visa or MasterCard) rather than a debit card (which is directly linked to your bank account). Credit cards are a viable option for many people, yet for some it may be tempting to spend more than your budget allows. Credit card companies make interest off of your purchases, which will not negatively affect your financial well-being if you pay off your balance in full each month. Research different cards and providers to see what options work best for you. Many credit cards offer special rewards, including but not limited to cash back, airline miles, and credit for certain retailers.

Credit Ratings Your credit rating is very important, and will be linked to your identity in the US for your whole life. Your credit score will be impacted by your ability to pay bills on time, how many credit cards you have, how many loans you take out, etc. Your credit score will improve if you pay all your bills by their respective due dates, and by keeping a low ratio of credit card expenses compared to your maximum credit limit. A healthy credit score may allow you to borrow money or apply for credit at a lower interest rate, while an unhealthy credit score may prevent you from such activities, as well as your ability to buy a car or rent/purchase a home. For more tips on financial safety in the United States, visit http://www.mymoney.gov. Financial Protection Protect the money you earn by being wise about your financial standing and the services you use. Keep all of your information confidential, and always look over relevant financial documents, balances, and recorded activity. Beware of scams that may ask you for money or access to your funds, especially online and for deals that seem “too good to be true.” Identity theft is a major issue (especially when making purchases or sharing data over the internet), so secure your money wisely by keeping a close eye on your funds. Moreover, if your wallet is lost or stolen, cancel and reorder any banking or credit cards immediately.

Paying Taxes Income Tax The payment of taxes is mandatory for any and every person working in the United States. Taxes exist on the federal, state, and local levels in order to fund services and serve the public. Taxes increase as your salary rises. Each year by April 15, you must file “Form-1040,” also known as the US Individual Income Tax Return, which declares your amount of income from the previous calendar year. Income tax is overseen by the federal Internal Revenue Service (IRS). As taxes are often deducted from your paychecks, the IRS will determine if you have not paid enough (and will have to pay more), or if you overpaid (and will thus receive a tax refund). You may qualify for certain tax cuts and/or credits based on a variety of factors. For more information, visit http://www.benefits.gov. Many people decide to enlist the help of accountants and tax professionals for a fee. Online services, including but not limited to http://www.turbotax.com, may walk you through the filing procedures if you wish to do it yourself. Free help may also be provided by your local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center. To find the nearest location, visit http://www.irs.gov/localcontacts/index.html. Social Security and Medicare These taxes are withheld from your paychecks in order to fund the two aforementioned federal programs. You may start to receive the benefits of these programs after a certain amount of time depending on specific circumstances. Sales Tax Sales tax varies by state, and is added onto purchased items at the point of sale. These taxes help pay for state and local services and offerings including infrastructure, police departments, and fire squads.

Property Tax Property tax must be paid for by those who own a house or land, and will vary by your area, the property’s value, and other factors. These taxes often help state and local services including public schools. Illegal Activity Improper handling or false filing of your income and/or tax information is punishable by law, and may lead to a fine and/or imprisonment. Keep in mind that honesty is always the best policy.

K-12 Public education is offered free of charge in the United States from kindergarten through grade 12 (approximately from age 5-18). Certain school districts may also offer free preschool for toddlers.

US School System

Type of School Age Grade

Elementary School 5-11 Kindergarten-5/6

Junior/Middle School 11-14 6-8 / 7-8 / 7-9

Senior/High School 14-18 (21 & under, by case) 9-12 / 10-12

Postsecondary/Higher Education

Eligible adults College, University, Trade School

The majority of public schools are coeducational and nondenominational, meaning that boys and girls learn alongside each other, and they do not adhere to any religious institution(s). Private high schools (that charge tuition) may vary by gender, religion, abilities, and other criteria. Charter schools are public schools that follow their own courses and methods of teaching independent from government mandates. Homeschooling is another option, in which your child(ren) can learn at home from a private instructor, adhering to certain governmental regulations.

Successful completion of an American K-12 education will earn you a high school diploma, which may serve as a stepping stone for college/university, trade school, or starting a career. A well-rounded high school education typically includes the study of math, science, literature, history, and elective courses (including the arts and foreign languages) based on students’ personal interests. You must enroll your child(ren) in school by calling and/or visiting your local school district. You must bring proof of certain immunizations and your child(ren)’s proof of identity. Check with your local school district for any other requirements. Schedule Schools are in session generally around late August/early September through May/June. A typical day in school will generally commence between the hours of 8 AM-3 PM, and regular classes take place Monday through Friday. There is most often a designated time period in which to eat lunch, as well as free periods for recess or study hall. Attendance School attendance for children is mandatory by law; age restrictions vary by state. In some cases, teenagers ages 16-18 may be exempt from mandatory attendance. Most districts restrict the number of days of school your child can miss per year. In a standard 180-day school year, the maximum number of days allowed to be missed averages at around 20 days. Exceeding your school district’s permitted number of days may result in your child being held back a grade and/or having to attend summer school. Behavior & Discipline Every child is granted the right to learn in a safe, nonthreatening environment. Violence and other reprimandable behavior will be handled with disciplinary action, resulting in detention (remaining under supervision after normal school hours), suspension (a period in which your child is not permitted to attend school), or expulsion (permanent removal from the school or district entirely). You may be notified of breaches in your child’s behavior by his/her teacher, guidance counselor, vice principal, or principal (head of the school).

Bullying Bullying is a serious threat to the safety and wellbeing of children. Bullying includes unwanted and unprovoked abuse, whether it be physical, emotional, or mental and based on gender, sexuality, religion, physicality, or any other arbitrary criteria. Bullying may take place inside school, during breaks, and/or on the internet. It is highly recommended for parents and children alike to perceive threats and abuses before they escalate. To learn more about bullying and its prevention, visit http://stopbullying.gov. Books, Supplies, Fees Textbooks are most often paid for by the school district, and are given out on a yearly loan to each student. School supplies (including notebooks, pens, etc.) most often must be bought privately. Additional fees may apply for special/nonmandatory trips, programs, lessons, and after-school care. Assessment American public schools evaluate your child(ren)’s progress by giving out grades each semester or marking period (about 2-4 each school year). Grades may be based on a combination of tests, quizzes, classwork, participation, attendance, and behavior. A minimum grade or grade point average (GPA) may be required in order to graduate or proceed to the next school grade.

Guide to Grading Assessments*

Numerical Grade Letter Grade Categorical Grade

100-90 A+ / A / A- Excellent, Good

89-80 B+ / B / B- Satisfactory

79-70 C+ / C / C- Needs Improvement

69-60 D+ / D / D- Unsatisfactory

59 and below F Fail

*This table is only a general guide to grading, which may vary by state and/or district.

Transportation If your child’s school is not within walking distance, free school buses or discounts on public transportation may be available. “Carpools” are also a popular option, wherein parents share driving responsibilities with other families in the community. English as a Second Language (ESL) If your child needs special attention for his/her comprehension of English, your school district must provide adequate care to ensure that he/she can successfully integrate into the American public school system. If English is not your native language, your child will undergo an evaluation for proper grade/class placement. Children with Disabilities If your child has a disability, special measures will be taken to ensure that he/she will have an equal right and opportunity to earn a full education as per the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). For more information, visit http://idea.ed.gov. College & University If you have completed an American education or equivalent or earned a GED (General Educational Development) certificate, you may qualify to pursue higher education at the college/university level. Distinguishing Colleges from Universities In the United States, institutions of higher education may have the words ‘college’ or ‘university’ in their names. A student can earn his/her degree from a specific college, which may or may not be part of a larger university system. For instance, a student may attend the College of Liberal Arts within University XYZ, thus technically being a student of both institutions. There is no real difference in the level of quality between a college and a university. Universities, however, offer postgraduate degrees (higher than a bachelor’s degree), whereas colleges do not.

Course of Study Since higher education is a sizeable lifetime investment, it is wise to think carefully about your course of study. Some students pursue degrees for the sake of establishing a career, while others do it for the passion of learning. Certain degrees (e.g. math, engineering, biology, business, etc.) may be more profitable and attractive to employers than others (e.g. liberal arts such as history and literature), so it’s recommended to do adequate research to make sure that you’re on the path you truly want and can foresee living with. As an “undergraduate” earning your Bachelor’s degree, you will choose a “major” (and perhaps a “minor”), which comprises your main area of coursework.

Types of Higher Education in the United States

Type of Degree School Length of Study (in years)*

Trade Certificate Trade School/Community College

1/2-2

Associate’s Community College 2

Bachelor’s Four-Year College/University 4

Master’s University 2

Doctorate University 2-8

Professional Specialty School (by field) 2-8

*Different programs may vary in length of study. Paying for Studies Though higher education in the United States can be costly (ranging from a few thousand dollars per year to upwards of $50,000), there are various resources to lower the cost of studies. For extensive and specific information, visit http://www.studentaid.gov or call +1-800-433-3243.

Public vs. Private Public institutions are funded by the government and generally cost less than private ones. Furthermore, public colleges/universities within your state most often will cost less than public institutions in another state. Scholarships Certain institutions may offer scholarships (sums of money for school that directly pay for all or partial tuition) based on grades, athleticism, qualifying essays, etc. Private entities such as churches and nonprofit groups may also award scholarships based on specific criteria after an applicant goes through an application process. You may ask school administrators for guidance and/or independently search for scholarships on the web. Student Loans Students may apply for loans given by the government or a private entity. You must pay back a loan once you finish your studies (whether or not you have earned a degree) with interest. Interest rates are typically higher with loans from private companies. Grants & Work Study The federal government provides other options that can help reduce the cost of higher education. “Grants” are sums of money for school that do not have to be repaid (often earned by merit, an application, interview, etc.). “Work study” is another option that allows students to work at their school part-time while studying, thus crediting/lowering the cost of his/her tuition. Housing Some students may commute from their parents’ home in order to save money while studying. Additionally, at some institutions you may apply to be an “RA” (resident advisor), which offers free to low-cost accommodations in a “dorm” (student housing) in exchange for supervising and advising fellow students within your dorm.

Adult Education Even if you have not earned a high school degree in your home country, your status as an LPR (legal permanent resident) in the United States can provide you with opportunities to complete basic education and vocational training. GED Adults aged 16 and up may attend Adult Secondary Education (ASE) classes. Successful completion of these courses and satisfactory test scores will grant you a GED, which is most often considered to be equivalent to a high school diploma. From there, you may continue your studies or search for a low-to-moderate skilled job. Your assessment will be based on four categories:

- Reading and writing - Social studies - Math - Science

ASE classes are often available locally at a low cost. To find these classes in your area, contact your local school district or community college. Perfecting Your English Working knowledge of the English language is essential to successfully adjusting to your new life in the United States. English language skills will improve your chances of finding a rewarding job, integrating into your community, and adapting to American culture. If you would like to work on improving your English, adults may enroll in ESL (English as a Second Language) or ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) courses at a community center or private language school. Community courses will typically be available at a lower cost than at a private institution. You may also wish to find a tutor for extensive studies and personal attention. Furthermore, perhaps an English speaker would be interested in mutual tutoring, wherein he/she would teach you English as you teach him/her your native language. You may also find computer programs and/or audiotapes that can help you self-teach English.

To find an English language program near you, visit http://www.literacydirectory.org. To self-study online, visit http://www.usalearns.org.

American Holidays Upon immigration, it is recommended to become accustomed to American culture, including nationally recognized holidays. The US government observes the following holidays, wherein federal employees and workers across many fields are given the day off. Public schools, banks, post offices, and associated institutions are closed on these days. January 1 New Year’s Day Third Monday in January Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (honoring the civil rights leader) Third Monday in February President’s Day (honoring America’s historic presidents) Last Monday in May Memorial Day (honoring fallen soldiers) July 4 Independence Day (celebrating the country’s establishment) First Monday in September Labor Day (honoring the history of American workers) Second Monday in October Columbus Day (honoring Columbus’s 1492 expedition to the Americas) November 11 Veterans Day (honoring veterans of the US armed forces) Fourth Thursday in November Thanksgiving (harvest celebration) December 25 Christmas (Christian holiday honoring Jesus Christ) Other notable holidays include but are not limited to the following (work, school, etc. may or may not take place on such days):

February 14 Valentine’s Day (annual day celebrating love) March 17 St. Patrick’s Day (Irish cultural and religious observance) Sunday following first full moon after March 21

Easter (Christian holiday recognizing Christ’s resurrection) June 14 Flag Day (honors the birth of the American flag) Varies by 10 days each year Ramadan (holy ninth month of the Islamic calendar) October 31 Halloween (festive secular/children’s holiday with costumes and candy) Contacts Emergency Response (police, fire department, ambulance) Dial 911 United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) https://www.uscis.gov http://www.welcometousa.gov (serves new immigrants) 1-800-375-5283 Social Services http://www.211.org Dial 211 (available in many states) Immigrant Protection

● Organizations and representatives recognized by the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA): http://www.justice.gov/eoir/recognition-accreditation-roster-reports

● Free legal advisors for immigration matters: www.justice.gov/eoir/free-legal-services-providers

Country-Specific Resources Below, you can find contact information on GUSGC’s most prevalent applicant pools by country. Of course, many more resources exist for these countries as well as countries not listed. It is recommended to contact your native country’s embassy and/or government offices to request additional resources.

South Africa South Africans Abroad South Africans in the USA Facebook Saudi Arabia/Lebanon/Egypt/UAE/Jordan/Qatar/ Arab American Institute Saudis in USA Facebook Lebanese in USA Facebook Venezuela/Argentina/Guatemala/ Venezuelan American Chamber of Commerce Argentinians in the USA Guatemalans in the USA Latin American Community Center Israel Israel life USA Israel In USA Facebook Russia Russian USA

The Global USA Green Card Organization thanks you kindly again for choosing us as your immigration service advisors. GUSGC hopes that this eBook has provided you with beneficial advice and actionable information concerning your new status as a Green Card holder and American resident, should you win the Green Card Lottery. We wish you and your family health, happiness, and good fortune in the event of a Green Card Lottery win and your subsequent relocation to the United States. The information included in this eBook is intended to provide information for general purposes only, should not be construed as legal advice on any subject matter and should not be relied upon as such. AlgoSeller Ltd. accepts no responsibility for any consequences whatsoever arising from use of such information. Any content in this "Adjusting to your new life in the united states" shall under no circumstances be considered as immigration advice, and shall remain the sole property of AlgoSeller Ltd. No reproduction, transmission, publication or any other form of dissemination shall be permitted unless the prior written consent of AlgoSeller Ltd. has been obtained.