About W&T | workandtravel

How to Apply?

You have to apply via local agencies in your country. These agencies will help you finding job in USA, getting your DS 2019 paper, for visa interview, finding a plane ticket, having orientation about programs' rules and life in USA.

If you cannot find local agency in your country, you can contact directly with program sponsor, biggest program sponsor is Ciee.org.

How Does the Program Work?

You will be welcomed as a visitor with a U.S. Department of State J-1 visa. This visa allows you to live and work in the United States for up to four months during your university summer break. It also gives you the possibility to travel for an additional 30 days after your job ends.

Are You Eligible?

TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR THE WORK & TRAVEL USA PROGRAM, YOU MUST:

Be at least 18 years old (check with your local representative for specific rules)
Be registered as a full-time university student
Be able to function in English, both at work and in a community
Have a pre-arranged job
Have at least $800 to support yourself upon arrival in the United States

What kind of jobs are available?

Participants fill a variety of entry-level positions, including retail, wait staff, counter staff, maintenance staff, housekeeping and amusement park positions.

How much does it cost?

Program fees vary from country to country. The local agencies' representative in your home country will be able to provide you with details about the costs. You will also need to pay the cost of your transportation to and from the U.S., accident and sickness insurance, housing, and personal expenses.

How much will I earn?

Employers in W&T program are required to pay you the same wage that they would pay employees from the U.S. Currently, the federal minimum wage in the U.S. is $7.25 per hour, but your pay rate may be higher, depending on where you work and the type of job you perform.

Can I get more than one job?

Yes, you are allowed to work at more than one job on the Work & Travel USA program. Please remember that your primary commitment is to your first employer.

What am I allowed to do during my time off?

You are allowed to do what you like with your free time, provided you obey U.S. laws and Work & Travel USA program rules. There may also be additional rules for your employee housing that you must follow. You are strongly encouraged to learn about American culture by participating in cultural activities offered by your host community and surrounding area.

What if I have not received my Social Security card?

If six weeks have passed and you have not received your card, call the Social Security Administration at 1.800.772.1213. Have your Social Security receipt ready. If you have additional questions, contact your sponsor. Important: Your Social Security number is yours alone. Do not allow others to use your number. Record your number in a safe place in case your card is lost or stolen. Protect both your card and your number to prevent misuse.

What should I do if I lose my passport or other documents?

If you lose your passport or visa, contact your embassy or consulate as soon as possible so that they can assist you in obtaining new documents.

If you lose your DS-2019 Form, please contact your sponsor.

If you lose your I-94 Admission/Departure Card, you will need to contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to apply for a replacement card.

If you lose your Social Security card, you do not need to replace it as long as you know your Social Security number or have a photocopy of the card. If you would like a replacement card, contact the Social Security Administration

What is SEVIS?

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. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security requires registration. If you do not register in SEVIS, you may be subject to arrest or deportation.

What if I want to stay and work longer?

You are only allowed to work during the dates that are listed on part 3 of your DS-2019 Form. Under no circumstances can the dates or your J-1 Visa be extended. You are allowed to stay in the U.S. and travel for 30 days after the dates listed on part 3 of your DS-2019, but you are not allowed to work during this time.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

At the Airport & Traveling to Your Job

As you walk out of the gate, follow the signs for arriving passengers. When you have the opportunity, you might want to call your family back home, and your employer (if you arrive during business hours) to let them know you’ve landed safely.

GO TO IMMIGRATION

At immigration, your passport, DS-2019 form, I-94 number, and J-1 visa will be verified. The official will take a photograph and fingerprint, and ask you questions about your citizenship, the program, and where you will be staying. You will also be asked about the information you’ve provided on your documents. Don’t worry. This is all customary. Most people coming to the United States have to go through immigration.

RETRIEVE YOUR LUGGAGE & GO TO CUSTOMS

Expect officials to open your bags for inspection at the checkpoint, where you will be asked for your Customs declaration form. The Customs official will need to know about items you are bringing with you. Anything you are bringing in that is not for personal use must be declared on your Customs Form. You may have to pay duty on some items. Other items, like agricultural products, are prohibited and will be confiscated.

LOCATE GROUND TRANSPORTATION & TRAVEL TO YOUR HOUSING

Your employer may pick you up at the airport and take you straight to your permanent housing. You will have made those arrangements before you leave for the United States.

When You Reach Your Destination

You will need to register with the government, apply for a Social Security number, and open a bank account. Do these as soon as possible.

CALL YOUR SPONSOR TO REGISTER IN SEVIS

Registration is required for all J-1 visa holders. You have 10 days after the start date on your DS-2019 to complete registration. Call your sponsor

GET A SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

You need this number to get paid, open a bank account, and pay taxes. Your landlord will also need your Social Security number once you have it.

OPEN A BANK ACCCOUNT

A bank account makes living in the United States easier and is a good way to protect your money.

*Some employers may offer to deposit your paycheck directly into your bank account. This is a common practice and might save you a trip to the bank. Your salary will appear in your account on each payday.

During Your Stay

Once you are settled in, it is time to meet your neighbors. Then get to know your co-workers at your job. And finally, begin experiencing life in America! Explore your town, find the good places to have fun, eat and relax, and enjoy yourself.

Take Advantage of Cultural Exchange

It is why you are here! There are many things you can do, and remember that the best cultural exchange experiences are often personal and spontaneous.

Check in with Your Sponsor

You are required to contact with your sponsor every month, and any time that you change addresses. This is very important. If you fail to do so, you will be sent home.