If you are (or plan to be) an expat living in the United States, please find below a list of expat clubs, schools, general links for women living in the United States, country information and more...
- Expat Clubs
- Schools
- Country Information
- Expat Voting Rights
- Resident and Work visa information
- How to get a driving license
- Where to live and about the accomodation types
- Healthcare information including Hospitals and Insurance
United States Features
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Going the Distance for Love
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The Top Ten Tourist Atttrcations to see in Orlando
Orlando is the dream destination of many. With the gorgeous Florida sunshine available all year round, beautiful landscapes and plenty tourist attractions you are spoilt for choice with what to do.
Thankfully EW has put together a list of the top 10 tourist attractions that are a MUST when visiting sunny Orlando.
Read more here >>
Expat Clubs
American Australian Association- Australian Women In New York
Australian Women In New York (AWNY) was established in June 1999. From small beginnings the group has expanded steadily and in 2004 has over 200 American Australian Association members on the mailing/email list. While the majority of members live in New York City, there is also a good number from New York State, Connecticut and New Jersey. Our members come from a broad range of age groups and occupations.
Website: http://www.americanaustralian.org/
Berkeley Wives
Berkeley Wives is for women who leave their home country behind to accompany their partners to study and do research at UC Berkeley or whose partners are studying or researching here. The Berkeley Wives don't like to sit at home and play the housewife - we like to get out there and discover our new home, work on our careers, make new friends, go out and have a good time.
Website: berkeleywives.jimdo.com/
British American Society
Welcome to the British American Society (BAS), San Diego Website. BAS headquarters is located in San Diego, California and we are networked with other British groups, via our BAS Network, in cities throughout the USA and Canada.
Website: www.britishamericansociety.com
Canadian Association of New York
The purpose of the association to promote friendly and positive social relations between Canadians and Americans.
Website: www.canadianassociationny.org
Canadians Abroad in Southern California
Formed in 1998 by a group of enthusiastic Canadian expats with the support former Prime Minister Kim Campbell, Canadians Abroad has grown to more than 3,500 members. Dedicated to connecting Canadians and Americans in Southern California for social and professional networking, Canadians Abroad hosts a variety of events each year, including Canadian holiday celebrations, sport and cultural events, and academic speaker series.
Website: www.canadiansabroad.com
Daughters of the British Empire USA
Daughters of the British Empire USA has Chapters in 38 states and are a meaningful, friendly, social, and philanthropic organization for women of British, Commonwealth birth and heritage.
Website: www.dbenational.org
Expat Contact - Los Angeles
A club for young expat professionals and former expats.
Website: www.expatcontact.com/?id=8&ty=ci
International Connections of Houston (ICH)
A non-profit organization which serves as a meeting point for networking through informative programs, activities and discussion groups. We invite members to share their global experiences. If you are living in the United States as an expatriate or have repatriated to the United States after living abroad and you desire to connect with others who have had similar experiences, ICH welcomes you.
Website: www.internationalconnectionshouston.org/
International Professionals Inc.
A premier network of professionals in the greater Madison (WI) international community. Founded in April 2005. Has more than 250 members from 60+ countries.
Website: www.internationalprofessionals.org
International Women Associates, Inc. (Chicago)
IWA promotes understanding and cooperation among Chicago-area women of all nations. It offers support, fellowship, and services to the long-term visitor to Chicago. Its programs are designed to provide access to other cultures and traditions and to create links among people of diverse cultural backgrounds.
Website: www.iwachicago.org/
Los Angeles French Quarter
A French-speaking group living in LA
Website: french.meetup.com/63/
Newcomers Club
A Worldwide Directory was created to help you locate clubs and organizations designed to give people new to the area or parents the opportunity to meet and develop friendships with others who live in the area.
Website: www.newcomersclub.com
Schlumberger Spouses Association (SSA)
A global, voluntary, social organisation for all local and international spouses and partners of Schlumberger employees. We aim to create and maintain a welcoming and supportive environment for all members and their families. The SSA fosters fellowship through ongoing social events and community involvement.
Website: www.ssafara.net/
South African Meetup Group in San Diego, California
Website: expatsa.meetup.com/
Turkmens in the United States and beyond
Website: www.ashgabat.us/
Yanks Down-Under/Mates Up-Over
Support for Australians living in North America and expatriate North Americans living in Australia, with discussion forums, chat, stories, etc.
Website: www.matesupover.com
International Schools
Atlanta
Seigakuin Atlanta International School
Seigakuin Atlanta International School endeavors to provide Christian education based on the Seigakuin motto: "Love God and Serve His People." Seigakuin Atlanta lnternational School is committed to serving the people of Atlanta and meeting the needs of local Atlantans by educating those who are interested in learning the Japanese language and culture. Seigakuin Atlanta INTernational School has a strong commitment to an international outlook. Founded by Japanese Christians and American missionaries, Seigakuin Schools have encouraged students to transcend national boundaries and to view history and their own lives in a global context.
Curriculum: Japanese/International
Address: 5505 Winters Chapel Road , Atlanta , GA 30360 USA
Tel: 1 770 730 0045
Fax: 1 770 730 0245
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.seig.ac.jp/english/atlanta/index.html
California
American University Preparatory School
We are proud to be the only university preparatory high school in downtown Los Angeles. The American University Preparatory School in Los Angeles (AUP) will welcome its inaugural class in the Fall of 2014. AUP students will live together on site where we have developed one of the most unique learning environments in education.
Curriculum: International
Address: 345 S Figueroa St #100, Los Angeles, CA 90071 USA
Email: aupschool.org/Contact
Website: aupschool.org/
French American International School (San Francisco)
At International High School, our teachers and staff are among the world’s experts. They have been handpicked because of their passion for education and their ability to blend time-tested pedagogy with modern, cutting-edge strategies. Thanks to targeted teaching and differentiation, our teachers are able to inspire and challenge every student to the best of their abilities. Whether you choose the International Baccalaureate Diploma or the French Bac in your junior and senior years, academic excellence will be the common denominator. Further, you will be immersed in a science program without parallel, professional-grade arts, competitive athletics, and extraordinary opportunities to serve and experience the world within and beyond the classroom.
Curriculum: International/ French
Address: 150 Oak Street, San Francisco, CA 94102 USA
Tel: 1 415 558 2093
Website: www.internationalsf.org/
International School of the Peninsula
International School of the Peninsula is a unique school that uniquely prepares its students for the challenges of an interconnected, 21st century world. Through ISTP’s rigorous French immersion or Chinese immersion (Mandarin) education, our students are able to develop the superior critical thinking abilities and mental flexibility associated with being bilingual. ISTP has over thirty years of experience in sharing cultures and languages. We take great pride in our ability to give students the tools needed to richly experience and succeed in the world.
Curriculum: French/Mandarin
Address: 3233 Cowper Street, Palo Alto, CA 94306-3005
Tel: 1 650 852 0264
Fax: 1 650 852 9306
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.istp.org/
Le Lycee Francais De Los Angeles
Le Lycée Français de Los Angeles is a private, bilingual, and international school founded in 1964 by Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Kabbaz. In these five decades, the school has expanded from one building to six beautiful campuses.
Curriculum: French
Address: 3261 Overland Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90034 USA
Tel: 1 310 836 3464, ext. 315
Fax: 1 310 558 8069
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.lyceela.org/
Oakland International High School
Oakland International High School is a Full-Service Community School within the Oakland Unified School District. We provide our students and their families with access to educational programs and social and emotional supports, which are much needed in the communities we serve.
Curriculum: International
Address: 4521 Webster St. Oakland, CA 94609 USA
Tel: 1 510 597 4287
Fax: 1 510 597 4292
Website: www.oaklandinternational.org/
Colorado
International School of Denver
Established in 1977, the International School of Denver is the oldest international school in the Rocky Mountain region. ISD offers accredited full-immersion, bilingual education in French, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese to children 3 years old through 5th grade. The Middle School is an International Baccalaureate School implementing the Middle Years Programme in Grades 6, 7 and 8.
Curriculum: International/Bilingual education in French, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese
Address: 206 Red Cross Way, Denver, CO 80230 USA
Tel: 1 303 340 3647
Fax: 1 303 360 9426
Email: [email protected]
Website: isdenver.org/
Connecticut
The Japanese School of New York/ The Greenwich Japanese School
New York Japanese School (The Japanese School of New York) is the oldest Japanese school in North America. Then, due to an increase in the number of students, in 1992, CT adjacent to the north of New York, and has been moved to Greenwich. It is also known to locals as The Greenwich Japanese School. The school has relocated to this land rich green, a wonderful environment, counting 40 years since the founding, it is a school with a history and tradition.
Curriculum: Japanese
Address: 270 Lake Avenue, Greenwich, CT 06830 USA
Tel: 1 203 629 9039
Fax: 1 203 629 9660
Website: www.gwjs.org/
District of Columbia
British School of Washington
The British School of Washington is a distinctive private international school, with over sixty nationalities represented in our student body. Our School starts with our two year old program, following on through to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
Curriculum: UK
Address: 2001 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007 USA
Tel: 1 202 829 3700
Fax: 1 202 829 6522
Website: www.nordangliaeducation.com/our-schools/washington
German School of Washington D.C.
We pride ourselves on our challenging German curriculum. The academic program has a strong focus on German, foreign languages and a science curriculum taught in state-of-the-art facilities, for grades four through twelve. The diplomas granted at the end of twelfth grade provide our students access to universities in Europe as well as in the United States, so that our alumni have been accepted to top universities around the world.
Curriculum: German
Address: 8617 Chateau Drive, Potomac MD, 20854 USA
Tel: 1 301 365 4400
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.dswashington.org/
Washington International School
Washington International School (WIS) is a coeducational independent school (private school) offering 900 students a challenging international curriculum and rich language program from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12.
Curriculum: US
Address: 3100 Macomb Street NW, Washington DC 20008 USA
Tel: 1 202 243 1800
Website: www.wis.edu/
Georgia
Atlanta International School
Atlanta International School, nestled in the historic campus designed by Philip Shutze in the heart of Buckhead, is an educational blend of Atlanta's old tradition and the pioneering international strength of present-day Atlanta. As the innovator of a global curriculum for future leaders, AIS offers a program of academic excellence to American and international students, beginning with three-year-old kindergarten and culminating in grade 12 with the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma.
Curriculum: US
Address: 2890 North Fulton Drive Atlanta, Georgia 30305, USA
Tel: 1 404 841 3840
Fax: 1 404 841 3873
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.aischool.org/
Illinois
Chicago Futabakai Japanese School
The 1966 Chicago Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry is supplementary school, which established Chicago Futabakai and becomes a mother, every Saturday once a week in the school day, most of the students and children attending supplementary schools through the local school Monday to Friday have.
Curriculum: Japanese
Address: 2550 N Arlington Heights Rd, Arlington Heights, IL 60004 USA
Tel: 1(847) 590 5700
Fax: 1(847) 590 9759
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.chicagojs.com/
Lycée Français de Chicago
Lycée Français de Chicago is a private, not-for-profit, coeducational day school serving 660 students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The Lycée Français de Chicago prepares students to be responsible global citizens by providing a dynamic dual language, bicultural education that focuses on excellence through the French National Curriculum complemented by a strong English Language Arts and American Studies program.
Curriculum: French National Curriculum
Address: 613 West Bittersweet Place Chicago, IL 60613 USA
Tel: 1 773 665 0066
Fax: 1 773 665 1725
Website: www.lyceechicago.org
Indiana
International School of Indiana
Curriculum: IB PYP, MYP, Diploma
Address: 200 West 49th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208 USA
Tel: 1 317 923 1951
Fax: 1 317 923 1910
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.isind.org
Massachusetts
International School of Boston
International School of Boston is a unique institution in the Boston area and I hope you will take the time to learn a little more about us, both through this website and potentially through a visit to our campuses in Cambridge and Arlington. ISB offers both a bilingual education that is based on the best of the French and American academic systems and leads to the French Baccalaureate or, alternatively, an international, English-based program leading to the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Within these two contexts, it is our aim, as our Philosophy states, “to provide students with a positive, inclusive learning environment, in which they have every opportunity to achieve their full potential.”
Curriculum: French and US System
Address: 45 Matignon Road, Cambridge, MA 02140 USA
Tel: 1 617 499 1451
Fax: 1 617 499 1454
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.isbos.org/
Snowden International School
The school's campus is concentrated in the center of one of the most diverse, cosmopolitan cities in the world, Snowden’s open college-like campus is woven into Boston’s urban landscape. The community itself enriches the quality of education and student life.
Curriculum: IB Program
Address: 150 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116 USA
Tel: 1 617 635 9989
Fax: 1 617 635 9996
Website: www.snowdeninternational.org/
Michigan
International Academy
The International Academy (IA) is a nationally recognized all International Baccalaureate public high school serving 1,300 students from fourteen Oakland County school districts and students living in surrounding counties. The International Academy is one school with three campuses: IA East in Troy, IA Okma in Bloomfield Hills and IA West in White Lake.
Curriculum: IB
Address: 1020 East Square Lake Rd, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 USA
Tel: 1 248 341 5900
Website: www.iatoday.org/
International Academy of Macomb
The International Academy of Macomb, officially designated as an IB World School in December 2009, is a county-wide International Baccalaureate magnet school located in Clinton Township, Michigan.
Curriculum: IB
Address: 42755 Romeo Plank, Clinton Township, MI 48038 USA
Tel: 1 586 723 7200
Fax: 1 586 723 7201
Website: www.iamacomb.org/
Nevada
Henderson International School
Henderson International School (HIS) combines a traditional college preparatory education experience with the progressive ideas and practices necessary to prepare students for the global challenges of the 21st century. Henderson International School is part of the Meritas Family of Schools, an international leader in private learning institutions. When compared to other Las Vegas private schools, Henderson International School has many key differentiators that set us apart.
Curriculum: KG-8th Grade
Address: 1165 Sandy Ridge Ave, Henderson, NV 89052 USA
Tel: 1 702 818 2100
Website: www.hendersonschool.com/
New Jersey
The New Jersey Japanese School
The school's students are Japanese expatriates. The goal of the school is to prepare them for the Japanese educational system when the students eventually return to Japan.
Curriculum: Japanese
Address: 117 Franklin Ave, Oakland, NJ 07436 USA
Tel: 1 201 405 0888
Website: www.newjerseyjapaneseschool.org/
New Mexico
United World College of the American West
UWC-USA is one of 12 UWC campuses located on five continents. A two-year residential school, UWC-USA serves students age 16-19 who typically represent more than 70 different countries.
Curriculum: IB
Address: Montezuma, NM 87731 USA
Tel: 1 505 454 4245
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.uwc-usa.org/
New York
Avenues: The World School
Avenues: The World School is a planned international system of for-profit private schools for pre-K-12th grades. The first school opened in September, 2012 in the New York City neighborhood of Chelsea.
Curriculum: International Curriculum
Address: 11 E. 26th Street, 17th Floor, New York, NY 10010-1420 USA
Tel: 1 212 935 5000
Fax: 1 646 625 7600
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.avenues.org/
College of Staten Island High School for International Studies
CSI High School’s consistent, curriculum-wide emphasis on the infusion of international content and study of international issues provides a unifying framework for the school’s instructional program. This theme not only provides a common focus in the development and adaptation of course content, it stimulates the development of common habits of mind such as analyzing the validity of information from a variety of perspectives, exploring and understanding linkages across cultural, economic and political lines, and understanding the significance of the past with respect to current events.
Curriculum: International
Address: 100 Essex Drive, Staten Island, NY 10314 USA
Tel: 1 718 370 6900
Fax: 1 718 370 6915
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.csihighschool.org/
Dwight School
Dwight School, an internationally recognized IB Open World School, is committed to finding and igniting the “spark of genius” in every child. Kindling their interests, we develop inquisitive, informed, self-aware, and ethical citizens who will build a better world.
Curriculum: IB Program
Address: 291 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024-3002 USA
Tel: 1 212 724 6360
Website: www.dwight.edu/
EF Academy
EF Academy New York is an IB World School, authorised to offer the IB Diploma Programme. These are schools that share a common philosophy – a commitment to high quality, challenging, international education.
Curriculum: International Curriculum
Address: 582 Columbus Avenue, Thornwood, New York 10594
Website: www.ef.com/academy/campuses/new-york
The Flushing International High School
Flushing International High School is a New York City public high school that opened in September 2004 in Flushing, New York. Students come from over 30 different countries and speak over twenty different native languages.
Curriculum: International
Address: 144-80 Barclay Ave, Room 324B, Flushing, NY 11355 USA
Tel: 1 718 463 2348
Website: www.flushinginternational.org/
French-American School of New York
Founded in 1980 as a one-room nursery program with 17 students, the French-American School of New York has today become a thriving bilingual, bicultural Nursery-12th grade educational institution with an enrollment of 850 students coming from 46 different countries.
Curriculum: Nursery-12th Grade
Address: 85 Palmer Ave, Scarsdale, NY 10583 USA
Tel: 1 914 250 0522
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.fasny.org/
German International School New York
GIS is an accredited bilingual (German-English) and coeducational private school for pre-K through gr. 12, located in Westchester, 30 minutes north of New York City. We blend rigorous German and American curricula in an open, supportive environment that promotes personal growth, independence, and teamwork. Small class sizes allow our teachers to pay close personal attention to each of their students, thereby helping them to achieve their potential and encouraging them to develop into multilingual, analytical, and conscientious global citizens.
Curriculum: Bilingual German-English PreK-12th Grade
Address: 50 Partridge Rd, White Plains NY 10605 USA
Tel: 1 914 948 6513
Fax: 1 914 948 6529
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.gisny.org/
The International High School
Former Principal Eric Nadelstern founded The International High School at LaGuardia Community College in 1985 as a joint venture by the New York City Board of Education and the Board of Higher Education of the City of New York. The school has been designated as an Academic Excellence Project and has twice been cited as a Center of Excellence for the teaching of English communication arts.
Curriculum: US
Address: 45-35 Van Dam Street, Queens, New York 11101 USA
Tel: 1 718 392 3433
Fax: 1 718 392 3443
Email: [email protected]
Website: ihsnyc.org/
Keio Academy of New York
Keio Academy of New York was established in 1990 by the Keio Gijuku (Keio Private School System) of Japan (which also operates Keio University, one of the most prestigious private schools in Japan) primarily to meet the needs of Japanese living overseas. Inheriting traditions established by Yukichi Fukuzawa (whose picture appears on the Japanese 10,000 yen currency), Keio’s founder, Keio Academy of New York is a unique international private academic institution.
Curriculum: International
Address: 3 College Road, Purchase, NY 10577 USA
Tel: 1 914 694 4825
Fax: 1 914 694 4830
Website: www.keio.edu/
Lycée Français de New York
The Lycée Français de New York is a nonprofit, private school. The school is chartered by the Regents of the University of the State of New York and accredited by the French Ministry of National Education and the New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS). The Lycée is part of the network of French schools abroad (AEFE: Agence pour l’enseignement français à l’étranger), which is made up of over 400 French schools in more than 125 countries around the world.
Curriculum: French Pre-KG to Grade 12
Address: 505 East 75th Street, (between York Avenue and the East River), New York, NY 10021-3462 USA
Tel: 1 212 369 1400
Fax: 1 212 439 4200
Website: www.lfny.org/
United Nations International School
The United Nations International School (UNIS) was established in 1947 by a group of United Nations Parents to provide an international education for their children, while preserving their diverse cultural heritages. What began as a nursery school for 20 children quickly grew, adding grades, students and faculty.
Curriculum: International
Address: 24-50 FDR Drive, New York, NY 10010-4046, USA
Tel: 1 212 584 3071
Fax: 1 212 685 5023
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.unis.org/
North Carolina
American Hebrew Academy
Curriculum: International
Address: 4334 Hobbs Road, Greensboro, NC 27410, USA
Tel: 1 336 217 7100
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.americanhebrewacademy.org/
Oregon
French American International School
The French American International School (FAIS) is a preschool through grade eight independent school with an internationally-focused curriculum. The Lower School accepts students from 2.5 years old and is a French immersion program, complemented with the study of English. The Middle School offers an inspiring, international curriculum designed for students with no foreign language experience, as well as students continuing in immersion programs in French, German, Spanish, and Mandarin.
Curriculum: International
Address: 8500 NW Johnson Street , Portland, OR 97229-6780 USA
Tel: 1 503 292 7776
Fax: 1 503 292 7444
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.faispdx.org/
International School of Beaverton
The International School of Beaverton aims to encourage students to learn through an international lens as thoughtful, compassionate world citizens. We actively embrace intellectual rigor, intercultural respect, service to our local and world communities, and the promise of a peaceful world. In addition, the school promotes a challenging international education program with rigorous assessments recognized around the world.
Curriculum: IB
Address: 17770 SW Blanton Street, Beaverton, OR 97078 USA
Tel: 1 503 259 3800
Fax: 1 503 259 3803
Email: Jill_O'[email protected]
Website: www.beaverton.k12.or.us
Texas
Awty International School
Awty is accredited by CIS, ISAS, the French Ministry of Education, IB and Ministerie van Onderwijs, Cultuur en Wetenschap. The school is affiliated with the Mission Laïque Française. It is a member of CIS, ISAS, IBO, TIBS, TAPPS, NAIS, and HAIS. The academic program of the school prepares students for the French Baccalauréat or the IB, and offers an American diploma. All students take a second language - English, French or Spanish. There are native-language programs in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Arabic, and Dutch. Extra-curricular activities include inter-scholastic soccer, basketball, volleyball, track, golf, swimming, and tennis; yearbook, science and computer clubs, and Model United Nations to name a few. Field trips include an annual camping expedition. An after-school program includes supervised study and activities.
Curriculum: IB or French Baccalaureate
Address: 7455 Awty School Lane, Houston, Texas 77055 USA
Tel: 1 713 686 4850
Fax: 1 713 686 4956
Website: www.awty.org/
British School of Houston
The British School of Houston is a growing, diverse, and engaging school community dedicated to nurturing and supporting each individual student. By providing a full and varied education, we are committed to helping our students be the best they can be. At the British School of Houston we teach children from ages 3 to 18. All faculty are UK qualified teachers; selected and appointed following a highly rigorous application process.
Curriculum: UK National Curriculum
Address: 4211 Watonga Blvd, Houston, TX 77092 USA
Tel: 1 713 290 9025
Fax: 1 713 290 9014
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.britishschoolofhouston.org
Washington
French Immersion School of Washington
Founded in 1999, FISW offers an amazing education for children in preschool through grade 5. Students study all the major subjects – reading, writing, math, history, science, grammar, etc. – in both English and French, with the majority of their class time spent in French. The curriculum at FISW is comprehensive and challenging, and prepares students to be critical thinkers, curious about their world and excited about learning.
Curriculum: French
Address: 4211 W. Lake Sammamish Pkwy SE, Bellevue WA 98008 USA
Tel: 1 425 653 3970
Fax: 1 425 643 2938
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.fisw.org/
International Community School (Kirkland, Washington)
The International Community School (ICS) is a public school born of community action where parents and educators came together in 1997 to create and support a small, academically rigorous secondary education program with a focus on international awareness. ICS is the first community- initiated school in the Lake Washington School District.
Curriculum: International
Address: 16250 NE 74th Street, Redmond, WA 98052 USA
Tel: 1 425 936 1200
Fax: 1 425 936 1213
Website: www.lwsd.org/
International School
The International School offers the finest educational experience to all of its students, one which is unsurpassed in preparing them intellectually, socially, creatively, physically, and emotionally, so that they are inspired to become lifelong learners and realize their dreams in the world at large.
Curriculum: International
Address: 445 128th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA 98005 USA
Tel: 1 425 456 6500
Fax: 1 425 456 6565
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.bsd405.org/
Country Information
Location: North America
Capital City: Washington DC
Other Important Cities: New York, Miami, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit,
San Francisco, Los Angeles
Currency: Dollar ($)
Language: English
Calling Code: +1
Internet TLD:
Electricity: 110V 60Hz
Emergency Numbers: Medical, Fire and Police: 911
Country Information
http://en.wikipedia.org/
Expat Voting Rights
The majority of Americans who reside abroad are allowed to vote in federal elections through what is caleld an absentee vote. However, this does vary according to the laws and regulations of their state of residence.
Expats who are U.S. citizens and are over the age of 18 are eligible to vote absentee in both the primary and general elections. Each state does exercise different voting requirements and processes. The Overseas Vote Foundation can help you determine these rights. For voting purposes, your state of legal residence is the state where you lived before you relocated overseas, even if you no longer have a postal address in that state.
How to Vote
All American expats living oversees are highly encouraged to complete the state voter requirements at the earliest opportunity they have. To do so, visit the Overseas Vote Foundation website, select your state of domicile and you will then be guided through the process of registering to vote and requesting a ballot form.
You can receive your blank ballots electronically and, depending on the country in which you are currently living, you can get and return your ballot by email, fax or Internet download. If you choose to receive your ballot paper electronically, you will receive the form at least 45 days before the election.
The majority of states in the U.S. are now able to offer absentee voters the ability to track the progress of their voted ballot online.
There are three different ways in which you can return your ballot paper as an expat:
- Return the form via mail or courier: Make sure you allow sufficient time before the election deadline.
- U.S. Embassy Pouch/APO/FPO: You can drop off your ballot request or voted ballot at your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for return to the United States. It should be addressed to your local election officials and have sufficient postage or be in a postage-paid envelope.
- Fax, email, or Internet: some states do not permit the return of the form via electronic means. You must check this with your local election officials.
Residents Visa and Work Permit information
There are over 100 different types of visa and finding out which one is the right one is incredibly difficult without specialist help from an Immigration Attorney. There are visas for temporary visitors and visas for permanent immigrants. Please contact The United States Embassy in your country to ensure you have the correct paperwork to enter the country. It is strongly recommended you contact an Immigration Attorney and/or the Immigration and Naturalization Service for further details.
Visa Types for Temporary Visitors:
- Business
- Tourist/visitor
- Border Crossing Card - Mexican Travelers
- Exchange Visitors
- Students
- Temporary Workers Overview
- Media and Journalists
- Visa Renewals
- Mexican and Canadian NAFTA Professional Worker
Visa Types for Permanent Immigrants:
- Immediate relatives
- Special Immigrants
- Family-sponsored
- Employee-sponsored
Do note: in order to be eligible to apply for an immigrant visa, a foreign citizen must be sponsored by a U.S. citizen relative(s) or by a prospective employer.
An immigrant is someone who is not a U.S. citizen but has been authorized to permanently live and work in The United States. If you want to become an immigrant, you must go through a three-step process. First, the USCIS must approve an immigrant petition for you, which is usually filed by an employer or a relative for you. Second, a visa number, through the State Department must be immediately available to you, even if you are already in The United States. If you receive an immigrant visa number, it means that an immigrant visa has been assigned to you. Third, if you are already in The United States, you may apply to adjust to permanent resident status after a visa number becomes available for you. (If you are outside The United States when an immigrant visa number becomes available for you, you must then go to your local U.S. consulate to complete your processing.)
U.S. law limits the number of immigrant visa numbers that are available every year. This means that even if the USCIS approves an immigrant visa petition for you, you may not get an immigrant visa number immediately. In some cases, several years could pass between the time USCIS approves your immigrant visa petition and the State Department gives you an immigrant visa number. In addition, U.S. law also limits the number of immigrant visas available by country. This means you may have to wait longer if you come from a country with a high demand for U.S. immigrant visas.
The United States has updated its visa policies to increase security. It will most likely take you longer to get a visa than it used to and you will find security measures in place. It is recommended that you contact your nearest consulate or embassy or an Immigration Attorney to find out specific details for your country. This is a very detailed process and you will want to be very sure that it is done correctly and legally so that no problems occur at a later time.
Upon arrival, you should apply for your Social Security card, which is obtained at your local Social Security office. Your Social Security number is used to keep a record of your earnings. It is also recommended that you apply for a picture ID from the Department of Motor Vehicles (either a driver's license or simple ID). And, of course you will be traveling with your passport, which is a valid picture identification.
United States Citizenship & Immigration Services
www.uscis.gov
For Information on US Visas
www.UnitedStatesVisas.gov
Social Security Online
www.ssa.gov/
Department of Motor Vehicles
www.dmv.gov
Lots of detailed information can be found at
www.nriol.com
Accommodation
Most expatriates rent apartments or houses for a short term before leasing or purchasing, depending on the length of stay. Purchasing a home is more common for expats planning on staying at least three to five years.
It is important to take into consideration neighborhood characteristics, amenities, proximity to public transport, schools, work, shops, cinemas, churches - and type of accommodation. It's best to consult with a person knowledgeable of the areas that you are interested in. It is not difficult to find housing, as long as you are willing to pay for it.
Most rentals come with kitchen and bathroom appliances. Some also come with laundry and dishwashing machines, air conditioners and other specialties. You need to check out the details of each rental you look at.
Before you begin your search, be aware that the landlord (owner of the rental) may want a credit history. If you are new to the US, and don't have a credit history, gather references and letters of recommendation from your own country if you can, and be prepared to give a larger security deposit. You may not need to, but it's good to be prepared for the possibility.
There are three main ways to search for housing: local real estate/rental guides, online, or the main newspaper's classified sections. Check local supermarkets and convenience stores for publications. Once you identify a place you want to visit you must call to schedule an appointment.
Typically, one month rent and a security deposit equal to one month rent can be requested up front. The costs vary depending on the amount of monthly rent required. You will have to pay real estate taxes and rental insurance. The landlord is responsible for maintenance and repairs.
Generally, utilities are not included when renting. Sometimes, apartments have utilities included. Utilities can include gas, heat, hot water, electricity, telephone, cable, DSL (high speed internet), trash removal and water/sewer. And in some cases snow removal and lawn service.
In the city, many apartments have either a doorman or an intercom at the front entrance. Good home security systems are available at reasonable prices; many include silent alarm features to call the police when you are not at home.
It is common in The United States to sublet apartments or homes. Subletting means a person who rents an apartment or home will move elsewhere, or go on an extended trip, but still want to keep their lease. In the meantime, they may rent the apartment or home to someone else while they are not using it. This is often a good arrangement because approval can be quicker and easier, and the term of the lease may be shorter, or open-ended. Use all the guidelines for renting or buying when you check for a sublet, and make sure the sublet is legally allowed before you move in.
Also very common in The United States is sharing an accommodation with someone you do not know, a roommate. If you are single, or even just a couple, with little cash, credit or furniture, this may be just the thing for you. It usually doesn't require credit checks, it's generally inexpensive, and often includes many furnishings. It's one of the fastest ways to get into a home and start getting established in your new community.
Driving License
Having a car is almost a necessity in The United States if you live in the suburbs (towns outside the main city). Since most American commute long distances for work, they invariably drive to work. It is, however, not always required. Depending on your destination, public transportation is available including taxis, buses and metro systems. Finding a place to park is usually difficult in large cities. Parking meters abound so it is best to have a parking place in a garage.
The legal age for drivers is either 16 or 18 years old depending on the state. Cars drive on the right hand side of the road.
Foreigners can drive in the USA with a recognized international driving permit for up to one year.
Some countries have agreements regarding converting foreign driver's licenses. Double check with your local US Embassy to find out the paperwork necessary.
A Driving License can be obtained at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You must first get a social security number, then visit the DMV Office. You will need three forms of identification, have proof you have taken a five-hour driving course; take a written test, and then a practical road test. In many States, you will have to provide your own vehicle for the practical test. You will also be obliged to take eye test to ensure you can read the road signs. Be sure to schedule a large block of time for this as the DMV office is known for its long hours in line.
Owning and operating a car is linked with various considerable expenses, including compulsory inspections for pollution, various taxes, and car insurance. Gasoline once very inexpensive in the USA is now getting more expensive. Buying a used car sometimes is the best alternative to buying a new car.
Learn more about buying and owning a car at www.nriol.com.
Healthcare
Generally, no vaccinations are required from any country for entry into the US, however recent changes to United States immigration law now require immigrant visa applicants to obtain certain vaccinations (listed below) prior to the issuance of an immigration visa.
- Mumps
- Measles
- Rubella
- Polio
- Tetanus and dipththeria toxoids
- Pertussis
- Influenzae type b
- Hepatitis B
- Varicella
- Pneumococcal
- Influenza
Additionally, it is recommended that normal childhood vaccinations of measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTP) and polio should be up-to-date. It is also necessary that you bring any medical records with you from your home country and that you consult your home country's vaccination regulations for re-entry on home leave or repatriation.
The United States does not have socialized medical care. It is recommended that you have your own health insurance and bring all your information with you when visiting the doctor or hospital. If you do not have health coverage, you will have to pay for health care out of your own finances at the time service is provided. This can run into many thousands of dollars for serious illnesses so being covered should be a top priority.
The doctors and hospitals in the U.S. are very good and dependable. To find a suitable health care provider, contact your insurance provider to obtain a list as sometimes you are obliged to use a doctor from their list. The yellow pages also offer a list of doctors (physicians). The best way of finding a doctor usually is by asking the people around you for recommendations.
Pharmacies are called pharmacies or drug stores. There is no specific type of sign indicating that it is a drug store. Most supermarkets have a pharmacy and sell over the counter drugs.
List of Top Hospitals in New York
Bellvue Hospital Centre
Bellevue Hospital is the oldest continuously operating hospital in America. We trace our roots back to 1736 when a six-bed infirmary opened on the second floor of the New York City Almshouse. This was just four years after the birth of George Washington and 40 years before the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Address: 462 1st Avenue
Tel: +1 (212) 562 4141 (General Information)
Tel: +1 (212) 562 5555 (Appointments)
Website: www.nyc.gov/html/hhc/bellevue/html/home/home.shtml
Lenox Hill Hospital
Lenox Hill Hospital, a 652-bed, acute care hospital located on Manhattan's Upper East Side, has earned a national reputation for outstanding patient care and innovative medical and surgical treatments. The hospital is particularly well known for excellence in internal medicine, cardiovascular disease, orthopaedics, sports medicine, otolaryngology/head and neck surgery, and maternal/child health. The Hospital is also a recognized leader in public health education and community outreach.
Address: 100 East 77th Street - Parking (0-4 Hours $15, 4-8 Hours $25, 8-24 Hours $35).
Tel: +1 (212) 434 2000
Website: www.lenoxhillhospital.org/
Mount Sinai Hospital
Founded in 1852, The Mount Sinai Hospital is a 1,171-bed, tertiary-care teaching facility acclaimed internationally for excellence in clinical care. The Mount Sinai Hospital was named to the U.S. News & World Report Honor Roll in its 2014-2015 edition, ranking 16th out of nearly 5,000 hospitals nationwide. Mount Sinai also ranks in several specialties, and is top 10 in four of those: Geriatrics (#2), Gastroenterology (#9), Cardiology (#10) and Ear, Nose & Throat (#10).
Address: 1 Gustav L Levy Place
Tel: +1 (212) 241 6500 or 212 590 3300
Website: www.mountsinai.org/
New York Downtown Hospital
Address: 170 William Street
Tel: +1 (212) 312 5000
Website: www.downtownhosptial.org
Roosevelt Hospital
Roosevelt Hospital is a 505-bed, full-service community and tertiary care hospital. The hospital was first established in 1871 and is an Academic Affiliate of Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. In 1979, St. Luke's-Roosevelt was formed by a merger of St. Luke's Hospital and The Roosevelt Hospital. New York Radiology Partners is proud to be providing care to thousands of patients who seek care at this prestigious hospital.
Address: 1000 10th Avenue
Tel: +1 (212) 523 4000
Website: www.nyrp.com/roosevelt-hospital.html
List of Top Hospitals in Washington
The George Washington University Hospital
When the new George Washington University Hospital opened in 2002, physicians and nurses at GW began treating patients in a technologically advanced hospital. With millions of dollars of medical equipment, and a completely wireless network, GW offers advanced and innovative healthcare in a warm, friendly environment.
Address: 900 23rd Street NW
Tel: +1 (202) 715 4000
Website: www.gwhospital.com/
Holy Cross Hospital
Holy Cross Health is a not-for-profit health system based in Montgomery County, Md., that serves nearly 200,000 patients each year through a full range of inpatient, outpatient and innovative community-based services, with the mission to be the most trusted health care provider in the area. Holy Cross Hospital is one of the largest hospitals in Maryland. Holy Cross Germantown Hospital will be the first new hospital in the county in 35 years when it opens in October 2014. Holy Cross Health Centers are located in Silver Spring, Gaithersburg and Aspen Hill.
Address: 1500 Forest Glen Road, Silver Spring, Maryland
Tel: +1 (301) 754 7000
Website: www.holycrosshealth.org/
Ivona Fairfax Hospital
Inova is a not-for-profit healthcare system based in Northern Virginia that serves more than two million people each year from throughout the Washington, DC, metro area and beyond. Governed by a volunteer board of community members, Inova has grown from one hospital in 1956 to a nationally recognized, comprehensive network of hospitals, outpatient services and facilities, primary and specialty care physician practices, and health and wellness initiatives serving the Washington, DC, metro area.
Address: 3330 Gallows Road, Falls Church, Virginia
Tel: Falls Church, Virginia
Website: www.inova.org/
Mary Washington Hospital
More than 100 years ago, Mary Washington Healthcare began as an eight-room hospital in Fredericksburg, Virginia. Today, it has evolved into a not-for-profit regional system of two hospitals and 28 healthcare facilities and wellness services. Our Board of Trustees is made up of community leaders who serve in a volunteer capacity to guide our direction. Our mission to our community is clear. Mary Washington Healthcare exists to improve the health of the people in the communities we serve. As a not-for-profit corporation, we invest our profits back into the organization through such activities as upgrading our technology, developing new services and hiring new staff. The result is continuous improvement in the scope and quality of care we’re able to provide to the community.
Address: 1001 Sam Perry Boulevard, Fredericksburg, Virginia
Tel: +1 (540) 741 1100
Website: www.marywashingtonhealthcare.com/
MedStar Washington Hospital Center
MedStar Washington Hospital Center is a not-for-profit, 926-bed, major teaching and research hospital. It is the largest private hospital in the nation’s capital and among the 50 largest hospitals in the nation. Founded in 1958, when three specialty hospitals merged to form a single institution, the hospital offers primary, secondary and tertiary health services to adult and neonatal patients. It shares a 47-acre campus with three medical facilities in Northwest Washington, D.C.
Address: 110 Irving Street NW, Washington DC
Tel: +1 (202) 877 7000
Website: www.medstarhealth.org
