Day 0 to 7 checklist

1. Get a local SIM card: Purchase a SIM from T-Mobile, AT&T, or Verizon and get your phone operational.

2. Withdraw cash: Find a bank or ATM to get some physical U.S. dollars.

3. Buy a Clipper Card: This is your key to public transportation.

4. Confirm your short-term housing: Secure your immediate place to stay.

5. Open a U.S. bank account: This is crucial for all financial transactions.

6. Do a basic grocery run: Stock up on food and household essentials.

7. Rest and reflect: Take a moment to pause and mentally prepare for the road ahead.

Day 0–1 (Critical)

1. Get a local SIM card
   Visit a T-Mobile, AT&T, or Verizon store (airport or downtown) with your passport. Quick setup helps you access banking, Uber, and OTPs.
   Sim cards + paperwork
   
   

2. Confirm short-term housing
   Check in at your hotel, Airbnb, or temporary stay. Bring passport for check-in and save your US address for later paperwork.
   Housing and Neighborhood
   
   

3. Withdraw cash
   Use airport ATMs or local bank branches; most accept international cards. Carry some dollars for initial groceries and transport.
   Bank & Bureaucracy

Day 2–3 (Important)

1. Buy a Clipper Card
   Get your transit card at Walgreens, SFO, or online. Ask for BART + MUNI combo for easy public travel.
   
   

2. Open a U.S. bank account
   Head to Mercury (online), Wells Fargo, or Chase. Bring your passport, visa, and US address. Start with mobile banking setup.
   
   

3. Do a basic grocery run
   Visit Safeway, Trader Joe’s, or local supermarkets. Stock up on snacks, water, and basic cooking supplies.

Day 4–7 (Settling In)

1.  Apply for a credit card
   Try Deserve, Amex, or beginner-friendly cards. Use ITIN/SSN if available; ask the bank for options without SSN.
   
   

2. Download essential apps
   Install Uber/Lyft for rides, Google Maps for navigation, and WhatsApp to stay connected.
   Uber/Renting a car
   
   

3. Settle in & reflect
   Unpack, get some rest, and familiarize yourself with your neighborhood. Jot down quick notes for your next steps.