Recently we held a Multi-Org meeting where we discussed with members of our sister organizations in the IMF and IADB issues pertaining to “What you need to know before you move to the U.S.” . The summary we provide this month is the first of a two-part series on Transition tips. We ultimately hope to put together the information into an inclusive compilation to be presented on the WBFN website. To enhance our compilation process, we would like to hear more of your first-hand stories, personal anecdotes and individual experiences on how you found your first rental apartment, obtained a credit card, opened a bank account, found childcare, or discovered a good school. We believe that your feedback will be helpful to members who find themselves in similar situations. So, if you have supplemental facts or anecdotes on the subjects mentioned in this article and if you think this information will help our members, please send them as soon as you can to mosaic@worldbank.org
HOUSING AND FINANCE
A. Housing
There are three areas in which you can live while working for the Bank: Virginia (VA), Maryland (MD), and the District of Columbia (DC). Each is ruled by different jurisdictions regulating housing, taxes, and schools.
How to choose where to live?
Your choice of residence will be determined by which public schools you want your children to attend. Even if you decide on a private school, you need to consider if this particular school has a bus service for the area where you are choosing to live.
And, even if you do not have children, choosing a good school district is important as it affects the value of your property when you are ready to sell it.
Public transportation can also be a factor. Do not choose an area too close to the metro for security reasons: the incidence of crime is generally higher near a metro station. Also, be aware that public transportation (i.e. metro and bus) is not as efficient as in Europe or some other parts of the world and that distances are great.
A real estate agent can help you in your search for buying or renting. Their service is usually free of charge as they are remunerated by the seller or the landlord.
As for any other service provider in the US, you are expected to be actively involved in the process with the agent. Ask for an experienced agent who has worked with families from international organizations.
You should still remember that a real estate agent is not at liberty by law to tell you which neighborhood is better than the other. Do your own search on the web (homebuyers.com; renters’rights.com, etc.), ask friends and acquaintances. You may also check with WBFN and with the relocation team at Global Mobility.
Buy or rent?
The general wisdom is that you consider buying only if you are planning to stay at least 4 years in one place. Buying a home is expensive: closing costs (fees, taxes, etc.) amount usually to 5% of the final price of the home.
Be aware that there are financial implications: as a property owner you have to pay property taxes every year, and in case of a gated community or a condominium you also have to pay monthly fees which can be steep.
Be aware of differences between condos or coops if you are buying an apartment.
Should you decide to rent, you need to include in the contract a “diplomatic clause” which will allow you to give short notice to your landlord in case you are reassigned to another country.
Actually, in the US you can add an amendment to any contract you are about to sign.
If you are renting, you need to take renter’s insurance which will cover your belongings. But also, ascertain that the landlord has the property covered by his own insurance.
When renting, the lease should be in the names of both you and your spouse.
B. Finance
When you first arrive in Washington, make sure you have access to enough money to cover your expenses for the first 15 days by which time you will get your first paycheck.
Where to Bank?
The most convenient way for newcomers is to join the Bank-Fund Staff Credit Union (BFSFCU) also known as the “Credit Union”, a bank dedicated to the staff of the WBG and the IMF and whose branches are located at both the WBG and the IMF. Unless you otherwise specify, it is the bank where your paycheck will be deposited. Unlike most US banks, it will require neither a social security number from you nor a credit history. It will immediately issue debit and credit cards for your use. It is familiar with G-4 visa holders, and will provide them with loans without too much hassle.
The importance of having a Credit History in the US
The US economy is built on credit. In order to qualify for a loan, a person needs to have a credit history.
You can build your credit history by using the credit card that the Credit Union offers.
(Be aware that using the debit card does not build your credit history.)
You can also make sure to put at least one of your utility bills (water, electricity, gas, or cable) in your name and another in your spouse’s name.
CHILDREN AND SCHOOLING
A. Pre-Departure Preparation
Prepare your children for the move
Children, whatever their age, need your help preparing for the move. In the rush of attending to all the practical matters do not forget to take the time to sit with your children and listen to their questions, encourage them to learn and/or improve their knowledge of English, and help them decide which of their favorite things they’ll take with them and which they’ll leave behind.
Prepare them for new school environments which will require from them an effort to adapt but will also provide them with new opportunities.
Learn about the American educational system
Get familiar with the choice of schools through the internet. You will need to pay attention to several factors:
School fees; public vs. private school system (the public school systems of Montgomery County in MD and of Fairfax County in VA are rated among the best in the US).
Calendar year: when to apply, length of the school year is, birthday deadlines for grade school class assignments, fixed closing dates for special programs for gifted or special need children.
School sports activities (an important feature of student life in the US): how early to apply to be part of a team (tryouts are usually several weeks before the start of school year)
What are the requirements (what courses have to be completed) for graduating from high school (Each jurisdiction has its own requirements)
Etc.
Parents are expected to already know these details which are usually spelled out on each school website. The American school system offers several possibilities and you need to find the “best-fit” education for your own child. You are expected to be your child’s best advocate. Do not lose sight of your child’s needs.
Do not hesitate to ask for advice. At WBFN you will find many members ready to share with you their experience. At Global Mobility, an education specialist will guide you in your search. Make sure to contact both places even before your departure and visit them as soon as you arrive.
If you have small children, childcare in the US can be expensive, as you can see from the relevant websites. You might want to consider bringing a nanny with you on a G-5 visa. To know what this would imply, contact Global Mobility.
Your children will need to have had certain immunizations before being admitted into a school or a childcare facility. Find out what they are and, if possible, get the children immunized before leaving your country. Make sure to bring an English translation of your health documents.
B. Upon arrival
Bring with you, in your hand luggage, all documents pertaining to your child:
Immunization records, (especially for TB);
School transcripts
Birth certificate/adoption papers.
Make sure the name is consistently spelled the same on all documents.
You will need to have a signed lease or a purchase agreement of your new home before you can register your child in the public school of your district.
Do not hesitate to question and work closely with the school advisors and teachers. In the US this not only an accepted practice, it is expected from you. You may even consider volunteering at the school to better understand your child’s new environment and be better equipped to accompany and guide him/her through it.
(In September we will carry information on G-4 visa status, work authorization, driver’s license, health and medical insurance.)