A practical guide for Arabic-speaking newcomers to Houston — documents, healthcare, housing, work, language and emergencies, with links to the official source for each.
Your guide to obtaining official documents in Texas
9-digit number for work, banking, government services. Free application at Social Security office
Source: Social Security Number · Last verified 2025-02-16
For driver's license or state ID: visit a Texas DPS office with required documents
Source: Texas Driver License · Last verified 2025-02-16
Your guide to healthcare in Houston - Texas has no state income tax
Safety net healthcare for low-income Harris County residents. Covers clinics, hospitals, pharmacy
Source: Harris Health Eligibility · Last verified 2025-02-16
Official Texas health insurance marketplace. Medicaid and subsidized plans
Source: Health Insurance Marketplace · Last verified 2025-02-16
Community health centers across Houston offer sliding-scale care
Diverse, affordable area. Large immigrant communities, good transit
Safe suburbs with good schools. Slightly farther but affordable rents
1BR: approximately $1,100-$1,600/month. Houston is very affordable
Free job services: training, career coaching, Work in Texas job database
Source: Gulf Coast Workforce Solutions · Last verified 2025-02-16
Refugee employment and settlement services for resettled refugees
HCC offers adult ESL courses at low cost. Multiple campuses
Harris County libraries offer language learning and conversation programs
Nonprofit offering ESL from beginner to advanced. Virtual and in-person. ~$40/semester
Source: Literacy Advance of Houston · Last verified 2025-02-16
Major banks with many Houston branches. Texas has no state income tax
Police, ambulance, fire - use only for life-threatening emergencies
Non-emergency city services and information
Mental health crisis line 24/7. Phone: 713-970-7000
Source: Harris Center for Mental Health · Last verified 2025-02-16
Services: Refugee resettlement · Employment · Settlement
Services: ESL classes · Citizenship · Digital literacy