The cost of your program is decided by the representative at your local J-1 Work and Travel partner office if you’re working with one. Just apply, and we’ll connect you with them. Apart from the program fee, you’ll also need to pay for your visa application at the embassy. You’ll also need to cover the expenses for your round-trip flight to the U.S., as well as your housing and meals while you’re there.
If you want to participate in the Work Travel program, you must speak at least an intermediate English level. You should be able to communicate on your own. Your English level will help determine which job positions you can apply for.
Work Travel participants must be between the ages of 18 and 28 years old.
To secure employment in the U.S., the process typically begins by getting accepted into the J-1 Work and Travel program. Once accepted, you’ll have the opportunity to select a summer job from a curated list of available positions. Your local J-1 Work and Travel partner office will assist you by providing these job options. Alternatively, if you prefer to find your own job or already have one arranged, your local partner office and the U.S. sponsor can help confirm your selection and sponsor your J-1 Work and Travel Visa.
Please Look at Selecting Jobs/Location Tips .
The application process for the J-1 Work and Travel Program typically involves several steps. First, you need to find a designated sponsoring organization approved by the U.S. Department of State. Then, you’ll need to submit an application, along with required documents such as proof of enrollment, a valid passport, and financial statements. Once your application is approved, you’ll receive a DS-2019 form, which you’ll need to obtain a J-1 visa from the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
The J-1 Work and Travel Program is an exchange visitor program that allows college and university students from around the world to work and travel in the United States during their summer vacations. It provides an opportunity for cultural exchange and temporary employment in various sectors such as tourism, hospitality, and retail.
The J-1 Visa is a temporary, non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to live and work in the U.S. as part of cultural exchange programs that promote the sharing of knowledge and cultural understanding.
The DS-2019 form serves as proof of sponsorship for a J-1 Visa. This form identifies the student’s program sponsor, outlines the purpose of the program, and specifies the duration during which the student is permitted to work. It’s essential to note that the student can only work legally with a valid DS-2019 form, and employment must occur within the dates listed on the DS-2019. The J-1 Visa remains valid only when accompanied by the DS-2019 form
SEVIS is an abbreviation for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, a database maintained by the U.S. government to keep track of the addresses of students and exchange visitors. You MUST register in SEVIS within 10 days of your arrival in the United States( follow up with your US sponsor first when you arrive in the USA to register the SEVIS ). The U.S. Department of Homeland Security requires registration. If you do not register in SEVIS, you may be subject to arrest or deportation.
Yes. Every time you change your address, you should register your new work address and your physical housing address online ( at sponsor website ) or over the phone. No P.O. Box addresses should be entered.
If you encounter any problems with your housing, such as neighborhood safety concerns, landlord behavior, or issues with the accommodation that make you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, please contact your sponsor, employer, or housing coordinator immediately. Clearly communicate the issues and seek suggestions or solutions to resolve them promptly. This will help ensure you have a positive experience and remain in a safe environment.
Yes, you can change your housing during your stay in the USA for the Work and Travel program. However, you should notify your employer and program sponsor of any changes in your living arrangements. Make sure to follow any contractual obligations and give proper notice to your current landlord if required. Always ensure that your new housing is safe, affordable, and close to your workplace.
The cost of housing for Work and Travel students in the USA varies widely depending on the location, type of accommodation, and amenities provided. On average, students can expect to pay between $300 and $500 per month. Some landlords require weekly payments, while others prefer monthly payments, depending on the agreement. Don’t forget to also prepare money for a deposit when you first check in at the house.
Most Work and Travel employers provide on-site housing, typically in apartments, motels, or dormitories with shared living areas and your own bed. Read your job offer closely to see if housing is arranged. If not, you must find affordable, comfortable, and safe housing near your workplace. Research accommodation options online before arrival, and your host employer can assist in finding suitable nearby options.
Yes, your Social Security Number (SSN) can be used for various purposes besides work, such as opening a bank account, renting an apartment, or applying for credit. It’s essential to keep your SSN safe and only provide it to trusted entities when necessary.
If you have applied for a Social Security Number (SSN) but have not yet received it, you may still be able to start working. You can provide your employer with proof that you have applied for an SSN, such as a receipt or confirmation letter from the SSA. If you put your employer’s address on the Social Security application Form SS-5, first check with them to ensure that they have not already received your card. If they have not, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. An update on your application status will usually be given over the phone. In the event that there is an issue with the application, take detailed notes and call your US sponsor to help resolve the issue. You can also reapply in person at your local Social Security office, which can be found at: www.ssa.gov/locator.
In most cases, you cannot work legally in the USA without a Social Security Number (SSN). Employers are required to verify your eligibility to work, and having an SSN is part of that process.
You can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) as soon as you arrive in the USA and have secured employment. It’s essential to apply early to ensure that you have your SSN before you begin working.
To apply for a Social Security Number (SSN), you will need to visit a local Social Security Administration (SSA) office. You’ll need to bring specific documents, including your passport, DS-2019 form, J-1 visa, and employment offer letter or contract.
Social Security numbers are generally assigned to people who are authorized to work in the United States. They are used to report your wages to the government and when filing your tax return. Also, when opening up a new bank account, most banks require either a Social Security number or proof of application for a Social Security number.
All Work & Travel USA students are required to pay federal, state and local taxes. According to the IRS, students should use their U.S. address, claim single 1 and fill in “NRA” for non-resident aliens in line 6 of the W-4.Please visit our TAX page For more information.
You won’t be able to file your taxes until you receive your W-2 Form. At the beginning of the year, your employer will send you a W-2 Form (your employer is required by law to mail or email your W-2 to you by February 15th of the year following the year wages were earned). Before leaving your job, give your employer your email so he can send you your W-2. If you have received your W-2, please read our Tax filing process from A to Z page for more information.
You may be able to get a refund for some or even most of the money you paid. Your refund depends on how much money you made while you were in the U.S. It also depends on how you filled out your W-4 Form.
