Relocation & Integration

Moving to Pasadena as an international spouse, partner, or family member can bring many practical questions. Questions come up before arrival, others during the first few weeks, and many more during later life changes while living in the United States.

This page is provided as a simple starting point. It helps make the International Offices' relocation information more visible and easier to find, while also offering peer support through CISC Connect & Support.

Caltech's International Offices provide official relocation information for international students, scholars, employees, and accompanying family members.
Please start here https://international.caltech.edu/Relocation for Caltech's official guidance on topics such as: housing and essentials transportation and driving healthcare and safety family resources cost of living and budgeting arrival and settling-in information.
CISC does not replace the International Offices' relocation information. We simply help spouses and families find the right information more easily and think through practical next steps from a peer perspective.

Relocation looks different at each stage. If you have just arrived, start with our First 30 Days Checklist. If you are preparing your arrival or want an overview beyond the first month, use our Relocation & Integration Checklist as a broader reference.

Just arrived? First 30 Days Checklist

A short, practical guide to help international spouses and families focus on the most important things during their first weeks in Pasadena.

View the First 30 Days Checklist
Best for: your first days and weeks in Pasadena.

Preparing your move or looking further ahead? Relocation & Integration Checklist

A more comprehensive guide covering preparation, relocation, settling in, family life, community and questions that may come up over time.

Explore the Relocation & Integration Checklist
Best for: preparing your arrival and finding more detailed information beyond the first month.

Unsure where to begin? Email CISC Connect & Support at [email protected]. We can help direct you toward relevant resources and, where helpful, connect you with peer experience.

International life changes over time. Even after your first move is complete, new questions may come up around housing, documents and travel, childcare or schools, healthcare, transportation, U.S. systems, community life or professional direction.

The Relocation & Integration Checklist can be used as an ongoing reference. You can also contact CISC Connect & Support if you have been here for a while and are facing a new practical or integration-related question.