[Caislean Soilse]

Hi folks,

First post here and I hope you don't mind me mining you all for information. I've had a read over many of the threads here but haven't found any which match my issues. I apologise in advance if they have been covered, however (and would be thankful for some pointers to any relevant threads.)

I'm relocating to the Vegas metro area in the new year. As a non-US citizen moving from abroad (but a lawful permanent resident), there are quite a few questions and issues my research has encountered.

I've visited Vegas many times so am familiar enough with the city and surrounds, but obviously living there poses a whole different set of challenges.

First: accommodation

I'm a quiet, single, self employed professional in my late 30’s. I'd consider myself a pretty ideal tenant. However as a new arrival to the US, I'll have no credit record, former landlord references etc, initially. I'd be looking for a studio/1 bed apartment max, and flexible in terms of location.

How much of a problem will finding accommodation be? I don't want to end up paying application fees on multiple properties only to be declined, thus costing me time and money.

I know there are properties such as Siegel Suites etc who specialise in flexible rentals but I assume one pays a premium for them. I've no problem covering this for the initial period, but would like to minimise expenses and get a more permanent place asap.

Second: Driving.

I'm a fully licenced driver outside of the US..alas that doesn't carry over from my home country to the US, and will have to pass the driving test etc again.

I'll have a rental car for the first few weeks, and technically my non-US licence gives me a grace period to drive in Nevada.

However I'd prefer to get my NV licence as quickly as possible. Does anyone know if I can apply for the licence without a waiting period, or do I need to get a learners permit first, then apply for a licence etc? I didn't find the DMV site particularly clear, and the application forms for a licence seem to require learner permit numbers etc.

Car insurance seems to be an issue also. I'd like to be as mobile as possible. I can buy a car, and drive on my non-US licence (at least initially) but to get an auto insurance quote requires a US licence (as far as I can see).

This puts me in a catch 22 as I can't get a licence until I get a car with insurance (from my research, the DMV won't let you do a test on a rental, even with insurance). Does anyone know of/can recommend an agent which specialises in this area that might be able to help.

Finally: (for now, anyway!)

Can anyone recommend a good credit union/regional bank for day to day checking? I'd like to avoid the larger institutions, and would prefer to support credit unions etc.

I hope folks here might be able to help me out. I'd certainly appreciate any assistance!

[OmegaSupreme]

Go though craigslist for accommodation without credit checks, but read up on how to avoid scams

DMV you just take a written test and a driving test. No learners permit needed

Look at getting a secured credit card to start building your credit score, you should also get an SSN ASAP

If you have a history with Amex from another country, you should be able to get an Amex here, this will help immensely with establishing credit

[andy197883]

Sorry to OP for hijacking his thread. Just an offtopic discussion. I'm new to US what's the best way to build credit history here?

[BBMW]

^
Deposit some money in a bank, and ask the bank for a secured credit card. Use the card, and pay reliably on time.

[ChinkChink]

Do Siegel Suites for a week or 2. Hit the pavement is the only way to go looking for permanent apartment.

[yellowsnow]

Siegel will cost you @ $800 per month. Considering it is all bills paid it's not bad. Much better in the summer when you can keep the place at 70 degrees though. But it's not really a safe, comfy place to live. It can be scary! I would probably rent there for a short time till I found a job and knew where I wanted to live.

[Caislean Soilse]

Appreciate the input so far folks. Many thanks!

[BBMW]

Can you get an international drivers licence wherever you are? That might make the transition easier, driving-wise.

[Caislean Soilse]

Originally Posted by BBMW

Can you get an international drivers licence wherever you are? That might make the transition easier, driving-wise.

Alas no. Would that it could!

[binionrat]

How did you get a lawful permanent residence exception? As Canadians we have looked into all possibilities of staying over the 183 days per rotating calender year, and short of us retirees getting a student visa, LOL, we can't find anything to make Borders/Immigrations happy. We own property, don't work so we aren't taking aways any jobs, have a spotless record, and would just like to stay and spend our pension checks in Vegas at our condo. Do you have refugee status? Are you marrying an American?