Popular Topics for New Immigrants

U.S.A. Learns offers free online lessons for immigrants to improve basic reading, writing, and speaking skills in English.

The U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) is the federal agency that assigns Social Security numbers. A Social Security number is important because you need it to get a job, collect Social Security benefits, and receive other government services. Their website provides information on how to apply for a Social Security number and card and other useful information. This information is also available in Spanish.

Some publications from the Social Security administration that lawful permanent residents may find useful include:

• SSI (Supplemental Security Income) for Noncitizens (PDF)
• Social Security Numbers for Noncitizens (PDF)
• Non-U.S. Citizen/Adult -- Replacement Social Security Card (PDF)

These, and other SSA publications, can be found by searching the SSA’s publications page. SSA has a multilingual gateway where information can be found in other languages. SSA also provides free interpreter services to help anyone conduct their Social Security business in a language other than English. These interpreter services are available on the phone or in a local Social Security office.

If you are a man between the ages of 18 and 26 years old, you must register with the Selective Service.

You must have a driver's license if you want to drive. Each state has its own agency for motor vehicles. USA.gov provides links to the agency in your state.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides information on bringing pets, other animals, and animal products into the United States.

USCIS provides a list of rights and responsibilities of lawful permanent residents. 

USCIS provides information about how to renew or replace a Green Card, travel as a permanent resident, maintain permanent residence, and more. 

USCIS provides information on how to report your change of address. Most noncitizens must report a change of address to USCIS within 10 days of moving within the United States or its territories.

If you move, you can give the U.S. Postal Service your new address through its website.