I am a Canadian citizen moving to California on an E1 visa, staying in an Airbnb for the first 60 days. How do I get my California driver's license (can I just exchange my Canadian one?), SSN, and bank account set up, and what documents do I need for myself and my E1 derivative spouse and kids?
You and your spouse can get Social Security numbers right away without waiting for work permits, and you can open a bank account before you have a permanent address. You will need to take a written and driving test to get your California driver's licenses, as California does not allow a direct exchange of a Canadian license. Your children will not be eligible for Social Security numbers.
You can cross the work permit worry off your list: as an E-1 visa holder and an E-1S spouse, the Social Security Administration recognizes your status as automatically authorized to work. You do not need to wait for an Employment Authorization Document to get your numbers.
You asked if you can simply exchange your Canadian license. California requires you to pass both a knowledge test and a behind-the-wheel driving test before you can get a driver's license.
To get a REAL ID license, you must prove your California residency using two different documents. Since you are staying in a temporary rental and do not have a lease or utility bills, you can use employment documents and bank records to satisfy this requirement.
You and your spouse qualify for Social Security numbers immediately. The rules state that E-1 treaty traders and their spouses are authorized to work incident to their status. This means your spouse does not need to present an Employment Authorization Document to get a card.
To apply, bring your passports and your I-94 records to a Social Security office.
Your E-1 derivative children are not allowed to work under their visa status. Because they do not have work authorization, they are not eligible for Social Security numbers.
You can open a bank account even if you do not have a Social Security number yet. Banks will ask for a government-issued photo ID, like your passport.
They will also ask for proof of your address. If you do not have a lease agreement, banks typically accept a paycheck or an employer pay stub showing your name and current address.
