Building a US credit score from zero

Your credit history from home does not transfer. In the US your credit score decides whether you can rent, get a phone contract, a car or a mortgage — so start building it on day one.

Key points to understand

Why you start at zero, and the fastest legitimate ways in: a secured card or credit-builder loan

Why you start at zero, and the fastest legitimate ways in: a secured card or credit-builder loan. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

What actually moves the score: paying on time, every time, and keeping balances low

What actually moves the score: paying on time, every time, and keeping balances low. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Check your reports free at AnnualCreditReport.com — the only federally authorised site

Check your reports free at AnnualCreditReport.com — the only federally authorised site. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Practical tips

• Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
• Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
• Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.