What documents do I need to rent an apartment immediately?

You need a passport with a visa, a printed I-94, and proof of funds (bank statements for 3-6 months of rent). Since you lack credit history, offer a larger deposit.

How hard is it to get an H-1B visa in 2025?

It is very competitive. Due to the H-1B cap 2025 and the H-1B lottery 2025 system, selection is random. Additionally, potential Trump H-1B restrictions may add more red tape.

Can I get a driver's license on a tourist visa?

Yes, but it will expire when your authorized stay (per your I-94) expires. You need to provide two proofs of California address.

What is the rumored $100,000 H-1B fee?

There is speculation about a $100000 H-1B fee being proposed to discourage outsourcing, but this has not yet been enacted into law. Keep an eye on the news.

Do I need my documents notarized?

Generally, no. For USCIS and most US agencies, a "Certified Translation" is enough. Notarization is rarely required domestically.

What constitutes Proof of Address?

Lease agreements, utility bills (water, gas, electric), or bank statements mailed to your California address.

What documents are needed for school enrollment?

Passport/Birth Certificate, two proofs of residence (utility bills), and a complete Immunization Record on the California form.

Can I work while waiting for my SSN?

Yes, if you have a valid working visa USA 2025 or EAD. However, you cannot get paid until you provide the SSN to your employer.

What defines a Specialty Occupation for H-1B?

A specialty occupation visa 2025 requires theoretical and practical application of highly specialized knowledge, usually requiring at least a bachelor's degree (e.g., Engineers, Architects, Doctors).

How much does the paperwork cost?

Driver's license is ~$45. Translations are ~$20-$50 per page. Housing application fees are ~$30-$50. The real cost is the housing deposit.

Moving to California in 2025: The Ultimate Paperwork Guide & H-1B Visa Reality Check

Alex Drill

Author

November 23, 2025

Essential 2025 guide to California relocation docs (SSN, Real ID). Critical updates on H-1B visa changes, Trump restrictions, and the $100k fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about this topic.

Sources

References and sources used in this article.

California DMV - Real ID & Driver License Infohttps://www.dmv.ca.gov

U.S. Customs and Border Protection - I-94 Retrievalhttps://i94.cbp.dhs.gov

USCIS - H-1B Visa Informationhttps://www.uscis.gov

Shots for School - California Immunization Requirementshttps://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Immunization/School/shotsforschool.aspx

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Frequently Asked Questions

What documents do I need to rent an apartment immediately?

How hard is it to get an H-1B visa in 2025?

Can I get a driver's license on a tourist visa?

What is the rumored $100,000 H-1B fee?

Do I need my documents notarized?

What constitutes Proof of Address?

What documents are needed for school enrollment?

Can I work while waiting for my SSN?

What defines a Specialty Occupation for H-1B?

How much does the paperwork cost?

Sources

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California Cost of Living 2025: Taxes, Hidden Fees, and H-1B Visa Reality Check

L.A. Confidential: The Best Family Neighborhoods in Los Angeles for 2025 Relocations

California’s Hidden Fees 2025: The "Junk Fee" Survival Guide for Newcomers & H-1B Workers