We haven't even started the visa application yet (don't want to fill out visa paperwork while suffering from sleep deprivation due to newborn twins), but are hoping that as we'll be doing an IR1 via DCF, it won't take too long and are aiming to move to the US, specifically NW Arkansas, in early 2009 or maybe even very late 2008.

My husband, the USC, will be flying over for two weeks in early July to re-establish domicile there and view houses we are considering buying (he'll be staying with his sister, who lives in the area we'll be moving to). Due to the baby twins and work commitments, this is likely the only time either of us will get over there before the big move/ immigrating, so he needs to make the best of his time there. What should he do while there/ what should be given priority? So far we are thinking:
- Get new drivers license (his old one expired as he's lived here in Ireland without a car several years) with sister's address.
- Open bank account (can this be done easily within a week, without bills in his name/ proof of a US address other than sister vouching for him?).
- Look at houses/ hopefully make an offer on a house (if he makes an offer, how difficult will it be to complete the purchase while abroad?).
- Get a feel for job market (very low unemployment in the area, so hopefully getting jobs won't be too difficult).
- Maybe check out local creches/ child minders.
- Maybe look at furniture shops and put down deposits/ but beds, sofas etc to be delivered when house purchase is complete (sister could take keys of house and let people in).

Anything else?

Don't have anything constructive to say except best of luck with it all. Your list seems pretty good to me.

Most of all best of luck with the twins. My aunt had 2 sets, and it really is an exhausting but wonderful thing.

xxxxxx Poiteen

You will need a SSN before you can get a driver's license. It takes about one or two weeks to get after application.

My husband is a USC, so he has a SSN (and I can't drive... not looking forward to having to learn when we move over!), but thanks for replying!

Just to add, on the Irish side, you could make sure that if you move mid tax year, you get refunded for any tax you've paid. There's a form you fill out. Don't exactly know which one it is, but it lets the tax man know that you're leaving the country and can you please have your tax back!

Also, since you guys are immigrating, any items you buy (usually only worth it on bigger items) you should get a VAT reciept. Then when your husband is going through the airport he should apply for a VAT refund. There's a specific VAT refund voucher that the shop fills out. It's a bit of a hassle, but it all adds up.

Hehe, sorry. For some reason, I thought you were both going.