work and travel program cost

• Conditions for participation
• Special loan
• Full Exclusive Program price
• 5 biggest misleads
• Job Locations
• Interviews With Employers
• Job Positions
• Hilton Head Island
• Amelia Island
• Traverse City
• Lake George
• Cedar Point Experiences
• Free English Language Course
• SERFSAFE course
• Health Insurance
• DS 2019 form
• Social Security Number
• I-94 formular
• About Program
• Types and prices of the program
• Types of camps
• Necessary documentation
• Living in the camp
• Program Offer
• Full Program Price
• Self Program Price
• Pay 0$ for the program
• Program payment
• Employer for Full Exclusive Program
• Location for Full Exclusive Program
• Job positions for Full Exclusive Program
• Accommodation for Full Exclusive Program
• About the program
• Necessary Documentation
• Campus Locations
• Accommodation

PROGRAM SUMMER W&T USA

Full Exclusive

PROGRAM PRICE INCLUDES

•  Secure job
•  HEALTH INSURANCE DURING THE WHOLE STAY IN THE USA (special offer only in Work and Travel GROUP)
•  Interview with an American employer through Skype
•  Services of providing accommodation depend on the employer
•  Specialized course of ENGLISH LANGUAGE created according to the program needs as a preparation for the interview with an employer and one in the Embassy, which is realized in cooperation with our partners – schools of foreign languages and licensed professor from the USA.
•  Brochure with all the information about the job and place where the student will stay (transport, banks, safety, accommodation, food, hospitals, fun places…).
•  Full description of the job and candidate preparation (e.g. position food server – candidate will get the instructions about the way of working, menus in the USA, behavior related to the guests, their demands…) for work in United States.
•  Preparation of documentation, scheduling and complete preparation of students for the conversation in the Embassy
•  Help and support in the first few days/weeks after arrival to the USA by the program coordinator, as well as 24/7 support during the whole program by the authorized sponsor companies in the USA.
•  Organization of the orientation and complete preparation for the program rules after departure to the USA, which the candidate is obliged to come to.

PROGRAM PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE

•  Return ticket to the United States of America
•  Expenses of visa for the USA
•  SEVIS (US Department of Student & Exchange Visitor Information System) and application.
•  Accommodation expenses during the stay in the USA and food if the chosen job does not include these categories.
•  Transport expenses from the airport to the accommodation/employer, as well as, the transport during the program duration.

CANCELING EXPENSES

• If a candidate withdraws after applying to the Program, and before the first communication with a potential employer in the US, or an employment intermediary, the Agency retains $350 (exchange rate is ordered by country of application)  on the day of the refund, from the amount paid by the candidate.
• If the candidate withdraws, before applying for a US visa, after the first communication with a potential employer in the United States, ie an employment agent, and the candidate receives, rejects or accepts the employment contract proposal by e-mail or signs the contract proposal in person at agency, the Agency retains the amount of $ 350 (exchange rate is ordered by country of application) on the day of the refund, from the amount paid by the candidate.
• If the applicant withdraws before applying for a U.S. visa, after signing a contract with the employer, the Agency retains the amount of $ 350 (exchange rate is ordered by country of application) on the day of the refund, from the amount paid by the candidate.
• If the candidate is rejected for a visa, the Agency retains: 0 USD – in case the candidate: is not in the first year of college, regularly took exams in the period of 12 months before applying to the Program, did not renew any year of college, studied continuously, did not take breaks between the enrolled years at the faculty for any reason, ie after the end of the summer semester in undergraduate studies he immediately enrolled in the winter semester in the next school year of undergraduate studies, ie he immediately enrolled in master / specialist / doctoral studies. type of US visa, passed at least three exams from the current school year, did not pass more than 2 exams from previous school years, has a total average of 8.00 and more from all school years until the day of submitting visa documents at the US Embassy, ​​did not previously enrolled in another faculty, ie did not change faculties and study programs within the same faculty, did not take a break between graduating from high school and enrolling She did not take breaks or resume any high school classes, has no relatives in the United States, and attended at least 4 of the 5 hours of a special English language course organized by the English language school with which the Special Travel Agency cooperates. obliged after the interview at the US Embassy to submit the DS-2019 form to the Agency in order to be entitled to a refund) OTHER CONDITIONS ARE APPLICABLE DEPENDING THE COUNTRY WHERE YOU APPLY .350 USD (exchange rate is ordered by country of application) on the day of the refund, of the amount paid by the candidate – in case the candidate does not meet the above conditions
• If the candidate withdraws for any reason after obtaining the visa (including, among other things, objective family or personal reasons, or reasons beyond the candidate’s control), the Agency retains all money paid by the candidate until the withdrawal, and the candidate is not entitled to a refund money.
• In the event of any changes to the rules of the program by the US Department of State or program organizer, due to orders, instructions, guidelines, or other influence of the US Department of State, which result in the Agency canceling the program for a particular student, the Agency reserves 350 USD (exchange rate is ordered by country of application) on the day of the refund, of the amount paid by the candidate.
• If a participant, for the purpose of applying for a program or visa, submits any document that the Agency suspects contains incorrect, incomplete or untrue information, or suspects that such document is falsified, forged or issued by an unauthorized person or authority, the contract shall be automatically terminated. , and the Agency retains all the money paid by the candidate until the moment of termination.

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• American Summers

Summer Work & Travel Program

Expand your horizons — live and work in the us over your university break.

IENA’s Summer Work and Travel program provides the opportunity for university students to live, work and travel for up to 4-months in the US.

Living and working among Americans is a great opportunity to gain great insight into life and culture in the US, make friends, and improve your English skills. At the end of your program you’ll have the opportunity to travel around the US for up to 30 days. Summer Work and Travel programs last up to four months, with an opportunity for up to one month of travel after your job ends, depending upon your university schedule. IENA will be your program sponsor and provide support before and during your stay in the US.

Create lasting memories with Work & Travel!

In the US summer, you might work…

• At the beach
• In amusement or water parks
• In hospitality

In the US winter, you might work…

• At a ski resort
• In a restaurant

Application and Fees

Application information.

To apply to the Summer, Work and Travel Program, you must be:

• Proficient in English (oral and written)
• Enrolled full time in a college or university course
• Excited about experiencing American culture

What your program includes

• High quality service and support from start to finish
• Optional job placement
• 24/7 emergency line
• Visa assistance
• Insurance for your entire stay in the US

IENA works with certified international partners around   the world.   Please e-mail us at [email protected] to connect you with one of our partners who will guide you through the process in your home country

Travel Information

On the move in the us.

Aim to live close to where you work. Walking and biking allows you to get to know your neighborhood and city. You will stay physically active and save on transportation costs.

For longer trips, try public transportation in your area or rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. Local taxi services offer direct service.

Pre-arrival

Participants will arrange their own transportation to and from the US, and to their housing/destination Check with your recruiter for information on flight deals.

If your employer doesn’t have a shuttle, you may be able to arrange public transportation to/from the airport to your destination. Ask IENA or your recruiter for help in identifying public transportation options.

Participant Resources

What to see in the usa.

• Sporting events
• Historical sites
• Oceans, lakes, and rivers
• National/state/local parks and recreation areas
• Major cities/nearby cities
• Amusement/water parks

The following SEVIS Validation Information is for Exchange Visitors who are sponsored by IENA ONLY and participating in our Summer Work and Travel Program, including Summer Camp Support Staff.

If the Sponsor listed on your DS-2019 is not IENA, please STOP and contact your sponsor.

Frequently Asked Questions

We know traveling to a new country for work can raise a lot of questions. Check out our useful FAQs or reach out with questions

You are going to hear several terms for different forms etc. during the process. Here is our IENAipedia to those forms:

The J-1 Summer Work and Travel Visa:  This J-1 Visa is a government program that allows qualified full time students to share their cultures and ideas with the people of the United States. The J-1 Summer Work and Travel Visa is for individuals approved to participate in work-and study-based exchange visitor programs. This program is run by the US Department of State .

DS-2019 Form:  This form can only be issued by a US Department of State designated visa sponsor. IENA is one of those. It certifies that you are eligible to take part in the cultural exchange program and is a vital part of the application process. In essence, it is evidence that you have a bona-fide job offer in the USA. You will need it for your embassy appointment AND you will need it when you enter into the USA. Guard it as you would guard your passport.

SEVIS Receipt (or SEVIS I-901 Receipt):  SEVIS stands for “Student Exchange Visitor Information System”. It is a system by which the US Department of State keeps track of you on the program. You will need this form when you visit the embassy for your interview

WHAT PAPERWORK WILL THE EMPLOYER REQUIRE? Social Security:  The US Government requires all employees to apply for a Social Security Number. Your employer will help you do this upon your arrival, however, you MUST validate your arrival via your IENA account BEFORE you can apply. Once done, you will need to visit the local Social Security office. You must obtain a Social Security Card. If you already have one, then that’s yours for life.

Form I-9: All employees, foreign and domestic, are required to complete this form for each employer. It is a straightforward form and you will need your passport (including J-1 Visa) and your DS-2019. Your employer will help you complete this.

Form I-94: This is your arrival and departure record. It is a good idea to print this when you get settled and keep it with you. You cannot print it until after you have arrived in the USA. It can be printed here

W-4:  This form is for tax purposes. Your employer may withhold a small amount of taxes from your salary. You ARE entitled to claim some of this back because you are not a resident of the USA. IENA partner with taxback.com to make claiming back the taxes as simple as possible DO I HAVE HEALTHCARE IN AMERICA?

As you may be aware, health care is not free in the USA. You must have medical insurance. We have that covered for you. There are however some terminology and procedures it is handy to know:

Co-payment:  This is like your car insurance excess. Its an amount you always have to pay when you have treatment. For non-Emergency Room Visits, the Co-pay is $50. Whenever possible. You should always call the 800 number (free call) on the back of your insurance and discuss your symptoms before visiting a doctor. They can best advise you whether to visit a doctor and if so, where the closest clinic is.

Workers Compensation:  Whilst you are at work and carrying out your duties at work, you are covered by this insurance. This means if you have an injury/illness caused by or related to your work, you are covered by this insurance which is held by your employer. Our insurance is for non-work related cases, or injuries/illnesses that occur while on days off and while you are traveling.

Emergency Room: It’s the same thing as the A & E and is for serious injury or illness that requires immediate attention.  There is no co-pay or deductible for this if the injury/illness is deemed life threatening or requires an overnight stay. In all other cases, there will be a $350 Copay, so you should go to a walk-in clinic whenever possible.

Pre-Existing Conditions:  If you have a condition that has been treated, or you take regular medication for, in the past 6 months, it will NOT be covered by this insurance.

Here you can find more details on your insurance policy .

SOCIAL MEDIA AND YOUR ONLINE PRESENCE

When it comes to social media and American culture, there are a few things you need to be aware of. Employers have withdrawn job offers to participants before they have even arrived in the USA due to things they have found on social media. Please be aware of how you portray yourself. You are going to America to be professionally employed and your public presence should reflect that. We highly recommend you make all your social media private.

Remember, even something someone else tags you in or photos someone else posts of you can have an impact on someone’s impression of you. As a general rule of thumb, think “Would I want my parents or grandparents to see this?”

Each employer will have their own set of rules with regards to social media once you arrive.

CAN I LEAVE MY EMPLOYER OR SWITCH JOBS

IENA recognizes there are several reasons why you may leave your job.

Getting Fired

Break the rules and you may be fired. This is a job just like a job at home.  As with any job you take, there are rules that need to be followed.

If you have been fired, the first thing you must do is call IENA.  (888)724-4292 . Your employer are also instructed to call us.  Our goal is:

• For you to understand why you have been fired
• Get your version of events
• Ensure you are paid up to date
• To make a plan with you as to where you will go, if we can place you elsewhere or how you will get home

Just because you have been terminated from employment does not mean you are not part of our program. We want to make sure you are safe and taken care of.

You Decide to Leave

We understand there are a few reasons why you may decide to leave. All we ask is that if you have any problems at your place of employment, you follow the following steps:

• Please make sure you have given the job a chance – at least 2 weeks
• Speak with your supervisor about any problems first and give him or her the chance to resolve
• If this has not worked, call IENA who will advocate on your behalf

Remember as with any job, there are good days at work and bad days.  There are people you like working with, and people you don’t like working with.  Just as the employer has made a commitment to you via you job offer, you have made a commitment to the employer in acknowledging and agreeing to the terms of your job offer.

If you do decide to leave early, you MUST call IENA before you leave on (888) 724 4292 ext 4. We will want to help you make a plan to get home or find other employment.

CAN I GET A SECOND JOB

If you have the opportunity for a second job, please contact the IENA office and we will go through the process and contact your new employer. You  MUST  do this  BEFORE  you accept and begin working for your 2 nd  job employer.

ABOUT THE USA

The USA is a vast country.  People say that every state is almost like a country with its own culture and compare it to Europe.  Here are some handy tools to help you:

• Time Zones and Local Times
• US Public Holidays
• US Customs, Habits, and Etiquette
• Cost of Living

Join one of the best work and travel programs today!

It looks like you’re currently in United States

We recommend the following for visitors in your region:

I'm an American and am interested in participating in your programs I own or operate a business in America and am interested in your services

Eligibility & Pricing

Eligibility.

The Work Travel Program is designed to allow young international university students to travel and work in the United States while on a J-1 visa. In order to qualify for the J-1 Summer Work Travel program, you must be:

Currently enrolled in a university or four-year college

Between 18 and 28 years of age

Have a conversational level of English

Independent and mature traveler

Flexible attitude and willingness to learn

Committed to fulfilling job duties for duration of program

Have at least $1000 (USD) available to support yourself for the first month of the program

Start Dates

Students can participate in the Work Travel Program during their university's summer break. The maximum length of the program is 4 months. This includes 4 months to work with an additional 30 days during which participants are not allowed to work, but may travel within the U.S. and prepare for their return trip. See below for eligible participant start and end dates .

Our fees comprise of the following major components:

Application

DS-2019 Form (Self-Arranged/Independent)

Interview Fee (IWT-Arranged/Premium)

Health Insurance

Your actual fees are determined by your local IWT partner representative. To be referred to an IWT partner in your home country, please fill out our Inquiry Form. IWT works with international agents and partners to provide a participant with the best possible program. Fees will change by country, market, exchange rate and the level of service that a partner provides to the participant. Some partners offer different levels of service, including job interview skills, English classes, job training, etc. and therefore charge more for their services. Examples of typical fees per region are below. Median Fees by Region

If you have any questions about fees prior to enrolling, please contact an Intrax partner in your region. If you are already in the U.S. and have a question, please call us toll-free at 1-888-224-0450.

Eligible participant start and end dates

The U.S. Department of State regularly updates its Official Country Eligibility Dates , but participants' actual availability dates depend significantly on their university academic calendars. Eligible Work Travel participant start and end dates are listed below by season.

All country eligibility dates are approved and published by the U.S. Department of State .

An adventure you will cherish

TESTIMONIALS

What our participants have to say

Intrax gave me an incredible chance to make my dream come true. It was an amazing summer and I'm so thankful for it. My participation on the program was absolutely safe, I was informed about all the necessary information before I arrived to the USA. I had so much fun and a lot of unforgettable memories. Thank you so much!

Since this is my first staying out of home for longer than 2 weeks, it was incredible! I met bunch of wonderful people in Alaska and spend some quality time with them.  Hiking, riding bikes and witnessing the appearing of Northern Lights over Anchorage was unbelievable!   An everlasting experience for me!

Whenever I had questions or doubts, I got a very fast answer from Intrax representatives. Everything went really great. I would highly recommend this sponsor company to students who are planning to take a part in summer work and travel program.

My initial intentions were to come to America for the first time and make money to go back home. Little did I know life had an unexpected turn for me. I have created memories that will last a lifetime. This experience has certainly changed my perspective and I have learned that it doesn't take years to build a friendship with good people.

My Work and Travel experience has been unforgettable. I met so many new people, from so many different places, and I lived with them for almost three months... We started as strangers and by the end of the program we had become such good friends.

OUR FEATURED STORIES

Everyone has a story

Discover stories and tips from our students, hosts and team.

International Women's Day: Interview with Chef Erika Tucker

Williamsburg "Coffee with Cops" Event Engages International Students from Around the World

Women's History Month: Interview with Intrax President, Marcie Schneider

Connecting people and cultures through work and travel.

Eligibility Requirements

Prices and options, medical insurance and taxes, work and travel loan.

• --> APPLY NOW!  

Work and Travel USA

Summer Work Travel is a program started by the U.S. State Department in the 1960s for students from all over the world who want to visit America during their summer break. Not for those who just want to take a few pictures or videos, but for those who also want to earn some money.

Summer Work Travel gives you the chance to be more than a tourist, and we believe it's the greatest college experience.

Last year 90,000 students went to the States with the Summer Work Travel program. About 7700 were from Romania.  

Summer work travel program history.

In the 1960s the U.S. State Department laid the foundation for a series of programs that allowed young people from around the world to experience the American lifestyle for a limited period of time. Initially a program for travel alone, it gained momentum when the State Department realized that there were many students who wanted to visit the USA but also earn some money.

As a result, as part of the Summer Work Travel program students with J1 visas are now allowed to travel and work legally in the USA during their summer break. For Romania the program runs from June 15th to October 30th. Students may work until October 1st, then travel for up to 30 days afterwards.

AMERICAN EXPERIENCE

When you come to us, you can be sure you'll have the best selection of jobs and accommodations in the places you want to go. First of all, because we are leaders in the field of cultural and educational programs in United States, and second of all because we have a long list of trusted employers from which you can choose a job. To date we've sent thousands of students to the States, making us one of the most prominent Summer Work Travel companies in Eastern Europe.

You can go to the States if you are in one of the following categories:

FULL-TIME BACHELOR'S, MASTER'S, or PHD STUDENT

You may attend either a public or private university, and it should be accredited. You must be less than 30 years old and at least intermediate English-language skills. Even if you’re not a Romanian citizen, if you study and live in Romania you are eligible for the Summer Work Travel program.

FINAL-YEAR/GRADUATING BACHELOR'S STUDENTS

You can still go the USA if you are in your final year of college, as long as you plan to continue your studies by applying to a master's or PhD program.

“FRESHMEN”

You can go to the USA as early as your first year of college, as long as you are a full-time student at an accredited university.

Since 2010, the USA Embassy in Bucharest has relaxed the eligibility conditions for the Summer Work Travel program: there is no minimum grade point requirement. However, it is still important to have good grades and few or no failed exams.

So, ”All students are invited to Work and Travel in the USA”.

It’s not a trip. it’s not tourism. it’s a journey..

We have three options for you. You can go independently (find your own job and housing), you can choose job placement for locations throughout the U.S., or you can choose a special package/specific destination.

INDEPENDENT

We help you get your visa; you must find your own job and housing. In this case, the Summer Work Travel program costs you $ 1499. To simplify the process you can download a Work Placement Agreement for your employer to fill in.

JOB PLACEMENT

American Experience works with you and the Visa Sponsor to get the job you want. With this option your only concern is passing your exams and packing your bags for the summer. The price of this option is $ 1499.

SPECIAL PACKAGE

If you want to go to one of the most sought-after destinations in the USA, then choose this option. You'll get the job and housing you want and live in a very cool location.

THE PRICE INCLUDES:

• Obtaining the legal right for you to work in USA • DS-2019 form for the visa interview; • Medical insurance; • Briefing and orientation sessions; • Assistance during the program period in the USA; • Housing assistance during the program period.

Hurry up if you'd like a special package, as there are limited placements!  

Sign up early, because there are several steps in the process…  .

But also because you have a higher chance of getting a good job and going to a more touristic destination.

Don't wait until the last week before summer break, because by then, no matter how fast we move it will be too late to get you to the States. Just like at a concert, the good seats are gone quickly. In our case, for Hawaii, California, and Ocean City you need to sign up early. This way, you have access to a bigger job list, and the visa process and paperwork are less stressful.

EMBASSY AND VISA

Before you arrive in the States, you need a j-visa that enables you to enter the country, then work and travel. You get one by going to a visa interview at the United States Embassy in Bucharest. The interviewer will ask standard questions about you, about your plans in the USA, about where you are going to work, etc. Our advice is to be calm and to be honest.

Choose your program option. Tell us if it’s going to be independent or with a job placement.

Sign up. Bring your ID (original and a copy) and your proof of student status so a program coordinator can help you fill in the signup sheet. You then have 10 days to pay the first installment of your program fee

Choose your job. (Or don’t choose one if you applied for the Independent option.)

Apply for your visa.

Get your plane ticket.

Come to our briefing and orientation sessions.

Your embassy file must have:

DS 2019 FORM (Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status)

DS-160 VISA APPLICATION FORM

VISA FEE $185 as of June 17, 2023

PHOTO must meet Embassy requirements.

The Summer Work Travel program was created for students that want to work and travel in the US during their summer break. American Experience offers jobs in areas and cities worth visiting as tourists. In fact, the reason why employers need more employees in those areas is that a great number of tourists visit these cities during summer. There are also lots of things to see! Las Vegas, Ocean City, Palm Beach, the Grand Canyon, the Rocky Mountains, Atlantic City, California, New England, Texas – there are a lot of places you can go.

Whatever position you have, it’s a temporary job, so you don’t need any special qualifications or tourism experience. If you are going to interact with the customers, your charm, communication skills, and your English knowledge will help you.

Your duties will be simple, so you will be able to do your job - especially since you will be trained by your employer.  

Summer break period.

American employers need you beginning on June 15th, and you can work until October 1st. After that you may no longer work, but you can travel for up to 30 days after the end date on your DS-2019 form. You can arrange your return travel for this time, but keep in mind that August is when many American students return to school, so your chances to work extra hours or find a second job increase. For the widest range of choices, plan to arrive in June, and be sure to sign up for the program early.

WAGES, TIPS, OVERTIME

In the USA you have the same rights as an American citizen working the same job. If you are there as part of the Summer Work Travel program you are working legally, just like an American. You can easily find a second job, where you can work part-time. You can work as much as you want, and you can earn money from wages, tips, and overtime. Working full- time usually means 40 hours per week, and most employers pay for overtime at 150% of your regular wage.

HOW TO FIND A JOB?

There are several ways to find a job under the Summer Work Travel program. First, you can attend a Job Fair (we'll let you know when it's going to take place) where you can meet potential employers and discuss job details. You can show your personal and professional strengths. Most of the time personal contact helps you get the job in the end. Another option is to visit an AE office and consult the AE job list. You can also find your own job by getting in touch with friends that live in the USA or searching online. Be careful not to buy job offers from unauthorized people! Not only is it illegal, but you also risk not having a job when you get there!

 Check the available jobs here

There are a few things in United States that you should be careful about: medical insurance and income taxes.

In the USA, like everywhere, any income is taxable, and for any medical needs you must have insurance or you will have to cover all of your own expenses.  

Medical insurance.

SThe American Health System is different from ours. The biggest difference is that it is more expensive. Everything is paid by the patient. Subscribers (except retirees and disabled people) do not receive help from the Government to cover insurance costs. The hospitals are extremely modern and have up-to-date technology. If you have an accident and do not have medical insurance, you will be responsible for the cost of all medical procedures. All American Experience program participants have medical insurance that meets U.S. State Department requirements; it is included in the program free. The insurance is necessary for your journey abroad and can be used both in the USA and in transit countries.

Your insurance covers emergency medical expenses, early return to your home country (for medical reasons), emergency dental treatment, lost luggage, lost plane ticket, etc.

You will pay several taxes over the period you work in the States: federal and state taxes and sometimes Medicare or Social Security Taxes. American Experience can help you request a refund of your taxes and have them sent back to your bank account (we recommend a dollar account). The state and federal tax refund process takes from 30 to 90 days; Medicare and Social Security Tax refunds (usually not paid by Summer Work Travel participants) can take up to 6 months.

CULTURAL DISTINCTIONS

We're sure you've heard lots of stories, both good ones and bad ones, about Americans. You probably have some ideas about American society from movies and TV shows. The U.S. society is extremely complex and diverse. There are differences between Americans living in different geographical areas, in cities or in the countryside, and between different social classes. Added to that, there are millions of immigrants that add more variety and color to their culture. Applicants should understand that the program's stipend or wages might not cover all of the program expenses, and applicants should bring additional personal funds to cover living expenses

Below we will present some ” typically American:” facts:  

Individuality.

Probably the most important American feature is that they see every person as an independent individual, with his own strengths and weaknesses, and they do not jump to conclusions despite their race, social status, and family. They emphasize the importance of equality, and their judgment is based on people's abilities. From birth children are taught to “stand on their own two feet,” to be independent. You may be surprised, but most American students choose the classes they want to attend, their leaders, and their careers without taking their parents' opinions into consideration. They make their own decisions.

Generally, Americans are very informal in relationships, even if there is an age difference. For example, students and teachers sometimes call each other by first name. In Romania it would be considered disrespectful, but it is a part of the American culture.

CULTURAL SHOCK

Culture shock is the process of adapting to a new and different country and culture. The weather, the food, the landscape, and the people you interact change, and they may seem strange at the beginning. It’s normal to feel shocked. When you get to know and understand them, the shock will disappear.

At the beginning it’s normal to feel nervous and home sick. In some cases you will experience low self-esteem and the need to talk to people from your country. You might even think you can’t make it on your own. The right thing to do is not to panic.

OUR OFFICES IN USA

A home away from home, a place to find some friends, and a real hub from which to explore the American continent - with trips designed specifically for Summer Work Travel participants.

COMPETITION

One of the most important American values is the competitive spirit and the need to compete all the time with someone. You will find competition everywhere, friendly or not. This could be by breaking records or seeking to achieve in sports, business, or any other area. For example, books and movies are not always judged by quality, but for the number of sold copies.

Even if they are very competitive, Americans appreciate teamwork and the pursuit of a common goal.

Our advices

Some Advice for Beating Culture Shock:

• Find something to do all the time. Watch a movie, go to a concert, take a walk. Avoid staying home and getting bored. • Focus on the present, and don’t think about home all the time. You will see that you are surrounded by good things and fun things to do. • Talk to people around you. Socialize, talk about yourself, and make friends you can spend your time with • There are a lot of community activities, sports competitions, volunteering, or social events you can attend. Get involved! • Go out, take walks, and explore the city. Your problems won’t go away if you keep sending emails to your parents.

We hope this gives you an idea about what living in the States means. For other details about living and working there and about American society, attend our briefing and orientation sessions.

Most returned students tell us that their experience was more than they every thought it would be. The experience of a lifetime, one that wouldn't be possible at this age in Romania or any other European country. For the first time in their life they got to know themselves better. Or to quote one student, "a time of growing up.”

This is why you should visit us and talk to one of our representatives - or with one of the students that came back “the same person but not exactly the same.”

You can’t find out about “self improvement, " “crossing the ocean that splits you from yourself,” or “leaving as one man and coming back a different one,” unless YOU GO!!  

Tibor ritner, oradea - ocean city.

Iulian Radu

București - ocean city.

Steliana Cosareanu

A few years ago we thought of a system to make the program accessible to any student, regardless of financial possibilities. This is how the Work and Travel Loan appeared. At this moment it is offered by Banca Transilvania under the name of "Gaudeamus"

The principle is quite simple: you are offered up to 3,500 euros (or the equivalent in lei), for a period of up to 2 years, and you can give them back when you return from the States.

What is being financed?

• registration fee for the Work & Travel program

• other fees (SEVIS fee, Consular fee)

• the cost of the plane ticket

• out-of-pocket expenses: maximum 15% of the loan amount

WORK AND TRAVEL LOAN ADVANTAGES

• You have 24 months to repay the loan

• In the first 6 months from the moment you are granted the loan, you can choose not to pay anything, neither the rate, nor the related interest

• Payment in full of the principal is not due until the end of the grace period

OFFICIAL RESOURCES

• Go to the U.S.
• For Work Exchange
• Work & Travel USA

Let's Get Started

How To Apply For Work And Travel

Ready to begin your American adventure? Let us help you find a job in the United States – just as we do for more than 15,000 international students each year. 

The first step is to connect with the CIEE international representative closest to you. If you can’t find a CIEE representative in your country, you can apply directly to CIEE. Send us  an email  to learn more.

Find a Representative by Country

EBLA Educational Business Links Albania     +355 67 20 77 990   [email protected]    blink-al.com

Integral Albania    [email protected]    integral.al

Kouzon    00355695417369   00355695417385   [email protected]    kouzon.mk

Tandek Exchange your mind    +355682060277   [email protected]     tandek.al

WEUSA    +(5411) 4773-7327   [email protected]    www.weusa.com.ar/

BUNAC    +61 3 9119 5252   infobunac.org    bunac.org

Work and Travel Group     066/375-888   [email protected]    workandtravelgroup.com

Kouzon Work and Travel BiH    387 66 533 030   [email protected]    kouzon.com.mk

Integral    359 28050600   [email protected]    wat.integral.bg

Usit Colours    359 29811900, ext 306   [email protected]    gotousa.bg

WEUSA    (+56) 2 2378 7083   [email protected]    www.weusa.cl

Raising Culture    +8618610165402   [email protected]    raisingculture.com

SunnySky Intl Cultural Exchange    +8602981707357   [email protected]     sunnyskyicec.cn

Servicio Educativo Internacional    +57 (1) 2745798   [email protected]    servicioeducativo.com

Smaller Earth Colombia    smallerearth.com/us/

SEP Costa Rica    +506 2253 4007   [email protected]    sepworkandtravelcr.com

Integral    385 1 4683 381   [email protected]    integraledu.hr

Work and Travel Group    097 720-12-56   [email protected]    workandtravelgroup.com

Applimates Educational Consultancy Service    +357-22669757 and +90-548- 853-9714   [email protected]    applimates.com

WYSE TRAVEL    +35725345273    [email protected]    www.workandtravel.cy

Czech-us    +420 773 960 963   [email protected]    www.czech-us.cz

Smaller Earth Czech Republic    +420 702 060 336   [email protected]    smallerearth.com/cz

Student Agency Czech Republic    +1800 100 300   [email protected]    studentagency.cz

The North-West Passage    +16199720555   [email protected]    thenorth-westpassage.com

ODTE    +1 809 686 3333   [email protected]    odte.org/

OFIT    +1 809 535 4881   [email protected]     ofit.com.do

APEX… tu camino    +593 (2) 2460484   [email protected]    apextucamino.com

Ordex    +201093699639   [email protected]     exegypt.org

EX Egypt    +201030117310   [email protected]     exegypt.org

Star Travel Georgia    +99532 2967799   [email protected]     workandtravel.ge

Work and Travel Group    +30 210 822 0015 [email protected]    workandtravelgroup.com

Student and Youth Travel Organization    +233 (0) 302 769157   [email protected]    sytoghana.org

Smaller Earth Hungary    (36) 20-662-5938   [email protected]    smallerearth.com/hu/

Work and Travel Group     +36 70 270 2211   [email protected]    workandtravelgroup.com

Speedwing Training (Asia) Pte Ltd    +65 62567555   [email protected]    www.speedwing.org

Global Insight    +1 (876) 9788098   [email protected]    globalinsightexchanges.com

International Recruiting Staffing Solutions    +1 (876) 7541836   [email protected]    irssworktravel.com

International Travel and Cultural Exchange    +1 (876) 3783876   [email protected]    goitce.com

Divan Student Travel    +96265511950   [email protected]    divanintl.org/a>

Travel Gates    962 79 691 5148   [email protected]    travelgatesjo.com

AirTravel International    +87(17)262-5745    [email protected]    airtravel.kz

Kazakhstan Council for Educational Travel (KCET)    +7 727 2723722,   +7 747 2507777,   +7 705 249 7337   [email protected]    kcet.kz

ABC Universe Kazakhstan    +77075619621   [email protected]    www.workandtravelus.kz

Jaunimo Keliones    370 604 13172   [email protected]    jaunimokeliones.lt

Lithuanian World Center for Work Experience and Studies Abroad    +370 37 223355   [email protected]    www.lwc-wt.lt

Kouzon & Co.    389 2 3238 801   [email protected]    kouzon.com.mk

Infinity Abroad    +6012 321 0397   [email protected]    https://infinity-abroad.com/

OOTB Personal Development Sdn Bhd    60 3 2164 5407   [email protected]    outofthebox.com.my

Speedwing Malaysia S/B    +65 6526 7555   [email protected]    www.speedwing.org

International Cultural Exchange    +52 1 3312462744   [email protected]    ice.org.mx

Smaller Earth Mexico    (52) 222-211-0956   [email protected]    smallerearth.com/us/

Kouzon    0038268271671   [email protected]    kouzon.mk

Work and Travel Group    +382 20 / 675 164   [email protected]    workandtravelgroup.com

WAT Montenegro    069 450 405, 067 357 377   [email protected]    watmontenegro.com

Phi S.A.    505-8424-0314   [email protected]

BUNAC    +64 9 883 2525   infobunac.org    bunac.org

International Working Holidays    +64 9 6660192   [email protected]    iwh.co.nz

Internship New Zealand    +64 (4) 920 7646   [email protected]    internshipnz.com

Almatur    48 22 826 23 56   [email protected]    almatur.pl

The Best Way    48 61 622 95 51   [email protected]    tbw.pl

Business Travel Club    BTC - stany,pl   +48 726 020 050   [email protected]    stany.pl

Camp Leaders Poland    (48) 81-532-34-64   [email protected]    resortleaders.com/pl

GTS International Romania    +4021.313.4545   [email protected]    gotosua.ro

IntegralEdu Work & Travel    +40 737 069 011   [email protected]    worktravelusa.ro

Student Travel    40 756068541   [email protected]    studenttravel.ro

STM Acord Travel    +40784433555   [email protected]    acordtravel.ro

Global Vision    +7 812 970 06 25   [email protected]    global-vision.ru

Star Travel    +7 495 797 95 55   [email protected]    startravel.ru

Divan International    +966126676161   [email protected]    divanintl.org

Agencia Kouzon I Ko doo    381 18 523374   [email protected]    kouzon.com.mk

IUVIA NGO    00381113035788   [email protected]    gpa.rs

Work & Travel Group    00381 11 40 56 198   [email protected]    posloviamerika.com

Smaller Earth Slovakia    (421) 0918-935-622   [email protected]    smallerearth.com/sk/

Student Agency Slovakia    420 5 42 42 42 42   [email protected]    studentagency.cz

CIEE Study Center Seville    (+34) 954-412-002   [email protected]    usa-internships.org

Foreign Study League    34-917-819-910   [email protected]    fsl.es

Travelingua    34-965.12.38.12   [email protected]    travelingua.es

StudyZone (Advis Educational Counseling)    +90 (212) 3938296   [email protected]    studyzone.com.tr 

Armada Grandee Education Consulting    +90 (312) 4192121   [email protected]    armadagrandee.com

United Towers    +90 (212) 2445005   [email protected]    unitedtowers.com

Coliseum    38 (044) 239-1919   [email protected]    workandtravel.org.ua

Star Travel Ukraine    +38 0443834112   [email protected]    startravel.ua

Student Travel    (+380) 99 940 49 62, (+380) 93 271 70 20   [email protected]    studenttravel.ua

BUNAC    +44 333 014 8484   infobunac.org    bunac.org

IST Plus    44 (0) 207 788 7877   [email protected]    istplus.com

Parenthèse    33 1 43 36 37 07   [email protected]    parenthese-london.co.uk

WEUSA    +(5411) 4773-7327   [email protected]    weusa.com.ar

Speedwing Training (Asia) Pte Ltd    +65 6256 7555   [email protected]    www.speedwing.org

If you can’t find a CIEE international representative in your country, you can apply directly to CIEE. Send us an email to learn more.

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.

Visitors with J-1 visas require a sponsor. As a student in the CIEE Work & Travel USA program, CIEE is your sponsor. We’re responsible for making sure you are prepared to live in America, have access to a good job with a responsible employer, and have a meaningful cultural exchange experience. We also monitor your health, safety and well-being while you are in this country.

You will be working for one of thousands of employers located all across the United States. Your representative can tell you all you need to know about your employment options.

Are You Eligible?

To be eligible for the CIEE 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 (CIEE can help)
• Have at least $800 to support yourself upon arrival in the United States

We welcome students who wish to come back. Ask your CIEE international representative, or contact CIEE for further details to find out if you are a candidate for a second visit.

© 2024 CIEE. All Rights Reserved.

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Work and Travel in the U.S.

Our program, regulations, fun in the u.s..

Spend your summer in the U.S. with Greenheart Exchange’s Work and Travel program.

Designated by the U.S. Department of State as a J-1 visa sponsor, our program allows you to work in a variety of seasonal positions throughout the country for up to 4 months.

Through a heavy emphasis on cultural exchange, our Work and Travel program promotes language exchange, building international friendships, developing cross cultural understanding and so much more!

We offer participants two program options (pending country):

• Self Placement option (SP): You, as the participant, are in charge of finding your own job. Once you have found a position, Greenheart Exchange will need to verify it before the application can be accepted.
• Full Placement option (FP): You, as the participant, are placed with a pre-approved host organization based on your experiences, skills, and availability. This placement can be completed through an in-person interview at an international Job Fair or through a virtual interview with a host organization or Greenheart staff member.

Placement Industries

Participant requirements: Must be a full-time university student from a participating country.

Program length: Up to 4 months with a 30-day travel period after; this varies by country.

Language skills: Must speak English (all participants are screened for English proficiency).

Jobs: Entry level jobs within seasonal industries (examples: server, lifeguard, food service attendant, housekeeping).

Hours: minimum of 32 hours per week.

Cultural opportunities: Greenheart encourages participants to get involved in their host community through volunteering.

Greenheart Exchange requires housing to be arranged prior to your arrival in the U.S. Though this may seem daunting, we are here to help you every step of the way.

Get started on your housing search by viewing this video

Housing Options

• Dormitory: a large bedroom for a number of people in a school or institution; often having shared bathrooms and common areas.
• Shared apartments or condominium: A suite of rooms forming one residence, typically in a building containing a number of these.
• Mobile home or trailer: A house on wheels that is parked in one particular place and used as a permanent living accommodation.
• Hotel/motel/inn/extended stay: A bedroom with a bathroom in a hotel/motel/inn – may include limited services such as refrigerator, microwave, housekeeping services, breakfast, and WIFI.
• Home: A building for human habitation usually shared with a group of people.
• Hostels: A shared or private room with shared bathroom facilities.

Housing Policies

• You must have housing secured at least 30 days prior to your DS-2019 start date.
• Housing should not be located more than 20 miles away from your job placement.
• You must have reliable transportation to and from work.
• You must have your own bed.
• You must have a designated bedroom and bathroom, whether private or shared.
• Rent should be no more than 33% of your monthly gross income.
• Housing must follow all local, state, and federal housing, building, and fire safety codes.

Housing Resources

1) Everything You Need to Know About Moving In: A Housing Checklist

2) Housing in the United States

3) Living in the United States: Housing Expectations

4) Housing Emergencies 101: What to Do

Facebook Live Video Series

1) How to prepare for your housing

2) Housing check-in

3) Roommate Etiquette

4) Cleaning your Housing

5) Housing Emergencies

What is Included in your program fees (all options)?

• One job offer
• DS-2019 form
• Medical insurance
• Virtual orientation (required)
• Greenheart Club (optional)
• 24-hour support of the Greenheart Exchange office

What is NOT included in your program fees?

• Housing fees
• Spending money
• International airfare
• Domestic transportation in the U.S.
• Airport transfers
• Public transportation to/from work

Greenheart is committed to making sure that our participants are safe during their time in the U.S. A big part of that is making sure that everyone is following regulations set by the U.S. Department of State. Below you will find helpful tools to learn more about having a safe program.

Department of State links

• Department of state Regulations:  Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (e-CFR)
• Welcome Letter and Brochure: The Department of State also provides a letter  Welcome Letter  and  Brochure  for Summer Work Travel participants.
• Summer Work Travel Program: Purpose and Placements  – February 20, 2013
• Summer Work Travel: Program Exclusions  – May 17, 2012
• Summer Work Travel Program: A Cultural Experience  – December 13, 2011

Seasonal and Temporary Employment

Seasonal:  Employment is of a seasonal nature when the required service is tied to a certain time of year by an event or pattern and requires labor levels above and beyond existing worker levels. Summer Work Travel host organizations should generally not hire for all three (summer, winter and spring) seasons, as the intention is that placements are only with businesses that have a seasonal need, so as not to displace Americans. Summer Work Travel host organizations are not to rely on program participants to fill year-round positions, as these positions should be filled by the American workforce.

Temporary:  Employment is of a temporary nature when a host organization’s need for the duties to be performed is a one-time occurrence, a peak-load need, or an intermittent need.

Temporary positions requested by host organizations are considered on a case-by-case basis. The host organization must be able to demonstrate why a temporary position cannot be filled by the American workforce.

Participant Requirements

• Participants must contact Greenheart Exchange immediately upon their arrival to the U.S.
• The arrival check-in must be done no later than 3 days after the arrival date.
• Participants are required to validate their programs upon arrival to the Greenheart Exchange approved host organization, and no later than 7 days after the program start date.
• Participants must also check-in with Greenheart Exchange every 30 days or by the deadlines listed in their Greenheart Online accounts.
• Failure to complete any of these communications may result in a negative SEVIS status, requiring the participant to return home immediately.

Prohibited Placements

*All SWT placements are subject to Greenheart Exchange approval. Jobs not listed herein may still be found inappropriate for the SWT program. Greenheart Exchange reserves the right to prohibit any placement.  In addition to jobs prohibited by the Department of State, Greenheart Exchange prohibits participants from working:

• In positions in kiosks.
• In positions with moving companies.
• In positions with staffing agencies.
• With third-party organizations. The participant must be hired, paid, and directly supervised by the same company.
• With lifeguard companies that have not first completed a Greenheart Exchange questionnaire
• In positions that involve door-to-door or traveling sales.
• In positions where manual labor is the primary focus, requires a high-level of skill, presents safety concerns, and the facilitation of cultural exchange is lacking.
• In positions with tent companies.
• In laundry-only positions, or other positions with extensive periods of time in rotation.
• In positions that require sustained physical contact with other people (e.g. applying henna tattoos).

Prohibited Placements by Location:

Greenheart Exchange no longer allows self-placed placements in:

• The state of North Dakota
• Panhandle Florida (Destin, Panama City Beach)

No positions for any program option are allowed in the areas of:

• Williston, Dickinson, Watford City New Town, North Dakota
• Baltimore, Maryland
• Harrisburg-Hershey, Pennsylvania

Though exceptions have been made in the past, self-placed and full program option placements in Detroit, Michigan are generally prohibited

Conditional Placements by Location:

Placements for full program options in the Gulf Cost Areas of Louisiana, Alabama, and the Florida panhandle from Gulf Shores, Alabama to Mexico Beach, Florida, including Panama City and Destin, will be considered on a case-by-case basis. To be considered by Greenheart Exchange, host organizations in these areas must provide excellent housing and extensive cultural activities for the SWT participants.

The Department of State prohibits Summer Work Travel participants from working:

• In positions with host organizations that fill non-seasonal or non-temporary job openings with participants with staggered vacation schedules.
• In positions that could bring notoriety or disrepute to the Exchange Visitor Program.
• In sales positions that require participants to purchase inventory that they must sell in order to support themselves.
• In domestic help positions in private homes (e.g., child care, elder care, gardener, chauffeur).
• As Pedi cab or rolling chair drivers or operators.
• As operators or drivers of vehicles or vessels for which drivers’ licenses are required regardless of whether they carry passengers or not.
• In positions related to clinical care that involves patient contact.
• In any position in the adult entertainment industry (including, but not limited to jobs with escort services, adult book/video stores, and strip clubs).
• In positions requiring any shift where hours will fall predominantly between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m..
• In positions declared hazardous to youth by the Secretary of Labor at  Subpart E of 29 CFR part 570.
• In positions that require sustained physical contact with other people and/or adherence to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Universal Blood and Body Fluid Precautions guidelines (e.g., body piercing, tattooing, massage, manicure).
• In positions that are substantially commission-based and thus do not guarantee that participants will be paid minimum wage in accordance with federal and state standards.
• In positions involved in gaming and gambling that include direct participation in wagering and/or betting.
• In positions in chemical pest control, warehousing, catalog/online order distribution centers.
• In positions with traveling fairs or itinerant concessionaires.
• In jobs that do not allow participants to work alongside U.S. citizens and interact regularly with U.S. citizens and to experience U.S. culture during the workday portion of their Summer Work Travel programs.
• In positions that require licensing.
• In positions for which there is another specific J category (e.g., camp counselor, intern, trainee).
• After November 1, 2012, in positions in the North American Industry Classification System’s (NAICS) Goods-Producing Industries occupational categories industry sectors 11, 21, 23, 31–33 numbers (set forth at  http://www.bls.gov/iag/tgs/iag_index_naics.htm ).

Participant Check-Ins

• Participants are required to validate their programs upon arrival to Greenheart Exchange approved host organization, and no later than 7 days after the program start date.

The Department of State places an emphasis on the safety, security, and quality of housing for Summer Work Travel participants. The following policies are provided to ensure participants are provided with appropriate housing.

• Housing must follow, at minimum, all local, state, and federal housing, building, and fire safety codes.
• Every participant must have his/her own bed. A bed is defined as a mattress on a bed frame or box spring. Air mattresses or mattresses directly on the floor are not acceptable.
• Participants must have a designated bedroom. Sleeping in a common space such as the living room is not acceptable.
• Employment must not be contingent on the participant living in host organization-provided housing.
• There must be affordable and safe transportation to and from work.
• Participants must submit their housing information to Greenheart Exchange no later than 30 days before their DS-2019 start date.

The following guidelines are provided to help avoid some common issues.

• Provide a lease or rental agreement that clearly define rules and regulations.
• Inform participants about how security deposits are managed.
• Conduct an initial housing inspection with the participant, documenting issues with participants when they arrive.
• Basic amenities, such as grocery store or the bank should be easily accessible from participant housing.
• Housing providers should offer short-term leases for 3 to 4 months.
• Monthly rent should be no more than 33% of a participant’s monthly gross income.

*The above is subject to change based on regulatory updates from the Department of State and changes to internal Greenheart Exchange policies.

If you have any questions, please contact your Greenheart contact toll-free at: 1-866-684-9675.

The U.S. is a wonderful place to explore during your summer! While work is an important component of the Summer Work Travel program , the primary focus is on cultural exchange.

We encourage you to get involved in your local community and experience all that the U.S. has to offer.

Volunteer with Greenheart

We blend service learning and volunteerism into all of our programs, creating a community of compassionate and conscious global citizens. We provide you with volunteer opportunities and even award active volunteers with up to $1,000 in grant money to be used for a service project in your home country.

You can also log your volunteer hours and connect with other participants in our online community during and after your program.

Cultural activities

Becoming involved in your new host community is one of the best ways to get the most out of your exchange experience. Volunteering and attending cultural events are great ways to meet new people, explore your passions, have fun, and build a meaningful connection to your new home.

Within our Greenheart Club , you will find cultural flyers that promote attractions, activities, events, and volunteer opportunities in your area.

Ambassador Scholars

Ambassador Scholars are our participants with an enhanced opportunity for personal growth and professional development.

You can be selected to be an Ambassador Scholar based on your community leadership in your home country. As an Ambassador Scholar, participants must volunteer in their U.S. host communities and document their experiences living and working in the U.S. through a blog or video. Ambassador Scholar’s program costs are reimbursed upon successful completion of your program and scholarship requirements.

Greenheart Global Leaders Conference

Network and collaborate with your international peers from across Greenheart’s cultural exchange programs at the Greenheart Global Leaders Conference. This is your opportunity to challenge your beliefs and think critically about global issues alongside other Greenheart attendees.

During the conference you will:

• Develop leadership skills through site visits and workshops with distinguished governmental, social, and cultural leaders.
• Experience Washington D.C. through guided tours of monuments and memorials, local entertainment, and a service-learning project.
• Gain tools to translate your international experience into a mission-driven life and career.
• Learn how to develop a community-focused service project.

Learn more about our annual conference here: https://greenheart.org/event/gglc/#/scroll/overview

Get involved this summer! Find an exchange event happening near you.

Check out some of our latest blog posts.

Confusing American Habits, Explained

The Summer Work Travel program takes you far!

Do I have symptoms of culture shock?

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How will gec contact me.

GEC will use the email address you provided when you completed your participant application. It is important that you check your email while in the U.S. for instructions and information from GEC. If at any time your email address should change, you need to notify GEC immediately.

It is your responsibility to find internet service while in the U.S. in order to access your GEC record during the summer. If you have difficulty accessing your GEC record, it is your responsibility to contact GEC immediately for assistance.

Failure to respond to GEC requests will result in program termination.

What is included in the cost of my program?

The program fee that you paid for your program includes your SEVIS payment, your mandatory health insurance, your orientation and program materials, 24 hour emergency support services, initial job placement, your signed work agreement from your employer, courier fee of documents to your home country and the administrative fees to process your DS-2019 form. Your program also includes the monthly check in email from your sponsor verifying that your program is on track and you are receiving a satisfactory experience.

There may be additional fees charged by your Foreign Partner Agent (if applicable) and may include a registration fees, application fee, interview/screening fee, English Eligibility tests, translation of school documents, etc. and other documents as necessary/required.

In addition to the fees for your program sponsorship and the money you bring with you to the U.S., you will be required to pay a fee to the U.S. Embassy prior to scheduling your interview.

You are also responsible for purchasing your round trip airline ticket and for paying any fees charged for changing your flight dates before and after arriving in the U.S.

How long will it take for me to receive my Social Security card after applying?

It can take 4-8 weeks on average to receive your card. Do not apply until you have been in the USA for at least 7 days.

What do I do if I lose my Social Security card?

If you lose your Social Security card, contact the Social Security Administration directly at 1-800-772-1213 or visit  www.ssa.gov  for instructions to apply for a replacement card.

What do I do if I have lost my passport?

Please contact GEC during regular business hours, and we will give you instructions for obtaining a replacement. Alternatively, you can contact your home country embassy in Washington, D.C. for help (found under Embassy Contact Information in your GEC Participant Handbook.) Your J-1 visa cannot be replaced once you are in the U.S., but it should not be a problem as the main purpose of the visa stamp is for entry into the U.S. The embassy will assist you with obtaining any documents needed to travel home. You should carry your passport photocopies with you along with your new passport. GEC is not responsible for the cost to replace your passport.

What do the students do if they lose their DS-2019 form?

The students should contact GEC during regular business hours in order to obtain a new form. Students are responsible for paying the fees to replace the document.

Can I stay longer than the 30 extra travel days?

No. You are allowed up to 30 days from the end date on your DS-2019 form for travel purposes only. You are also required to purchase an insurance extension before you begin your travel period. Working during the 30 day travel period is STRICTLY prohibited. You are not allowed to miss the start of your university classes according to your university’s official academic start date which may result in travel days that are less than 30 days. Your university cannot grant you generous leave to avoid this regulation. This is strictly prohibited. Not returning to your home/ school country on time may result in problems obtaining future visas to the U.S.

What happens if I do not update my SEVIS information with GEC?

If you fail to update GEC with your correct/ current address, phone number, and employer information, your program will be terminated. If your program is terminated, you may jeopardize your future chances of being able to re-enter the country. It is a matter of national security for the Department of Homeland Security to know where you are living and working at all times. Not reporting your information is a serious violation.

I forgot to validate my program in SEVIS. Is this okay?

No. Regulations are very strict. You MUST validate your program in SEVIS within 5 days of your arrival. Failure to do so WILL result in the immediate termination of your program, and you will be required to depart from the U.S. immediately even if you validated your program on the 6 th  day of your arrival.

Detailed instructions on how to validate your program can be found in your Participant Handbook.

Why does GEC need to contact me monthly?

Regulations state that sponsors MUST maintain MONTHLY contact with all sponsored students for the program duration. We will send monthly email reminders to you requesting that you log into your GEC record and confirm your reported SEVIS address, seek input from you regarding your work opportunity, and will ask for feedback in regards to your health and safety. It is your REQUIREMENT to complete these monthly monitoring questionnaires. If no response is received by us, we will attempt to contact you by phone, through your employer, through your Foreign Partner Agent (if applicable), or as a last result, through your Emergency Contact listed on your application. Failure to respond to these monthly monitoring requirements WILL result in the termination of your program. Your health, safety and well being are of our highest concern and that of the U.S. Department of State thus the reason for the implementation of this regulation.

Can GEC extend my visa?

No. GEC cannot extend your program after you have arrived in the U.S. Your visa was approved by the U.S. embassy in your home country based on the official summer vacation dates of your university and your original vetted job offer. Program extensions are not granted even if you have a new job offer that allows you to work longer than what was offered to you in your original work agreement. This means you may have a shorter J-1 Work and Travel program than the 4 months allowed by law.

I am not going to return to university for the autumn / fall term or my university has allowed me to start later. Can I extend my program?

No. GEC cannot extend your program after you have arrived in the U.S. Your visa was approved by the U.S. embassy in your home country based on the official summer vacation dates of your university and your original vetted job offer. This means you may have a shorter J-1 Work and Travel program than the 4 months allowed by law. Generous leave is not allowed by your university and is strictly prohibited by State Department regulations. Even if you are in your final year of school or are not going to return to your university, you are still bound by the school documents that were submitted at the time of determining your program eligibility. Remember, you were granted your J-1 visa by the U.S. embassy because of your intent to return to your home/ school country at the end of your program. Not doing so is considered visa fraud and has serious consequences.

How much money do I need to bring to the U.S.?

Typically, after you begin working there is a one to two week waiting period before you will receive your first paycheck. This waiting period will vary by employer, so be sure to ask how long you will have to wait to begin receiving paychecks. Some employers will let you begin working before you receive your Social Security number and some will not. These are questions to ask your employer before you depart for the U.S. It is your responsibility to bring enough personal funds with you to the U.S. in order to pay for your housing deposits, rent, food and other expenses. GEC will not loan money to you or make these payments for you. You are required to bring at least $1000 USD with you. Depending on the cost of your housing deposit, rent, food and the time it will take to receive your first paycheck, you may need more than $1000. We suggest you bring $1500. We recommend you bring an international credit card. Most places in the U.S accept Visa and MasterCard. USD travelers checks are accepted at most businesses as well.

I’m not interested in cultural activities. Is it okay if I don’t participate in them?

No. The purpose of your program is for cultural exchange. You must participate in cultural activities while in the U.S. Cultural activities can include touring the city where you are living, visiting museums, attending a U.S. sporting event, visiting amusement/ theme parks, attending a concert, and many, many other activities. If you are having difficulty with cultural activity ideas, please contact GEC for assistance.

I don’t want to work anymore, and I would just prefer to travel the United States. Is this okay?

You did not enter the U.S. on a tourist (B2) visa. The program you entered on is the J-1 Summer Work Travel visa. You are expected to work while you are in the U.S. If you decide you no longer wish to work in the U.S., contact GEC and we will work to resolve the problems you are having with your employer and program. If you decide you still don’t want to work in the U.S., GEC will end your work program in SEVIS. This means that you may begin your travel period up to 30 days in the U.S. before you must return home. You cannot spend more than 30 days travelling in the U.S. (Example, you cannot stop working in June and expect to stay in the U.S. until August for tourist purposes.) It will be your responsibility to pay all costs for changing your flight back to your home/ school country due to an early departure from the U.S.

GEC must maintain accurate work information for you at all times including whether or not you are still working.

I don’t want to live in my pre-arranged housing (if applicable). Can I move?

GEC MUST VET ALL HOUSING OPTIONS THAT YOU SECURE ON YOUR OWN. As your sponsor, we must know that your health, safety, and welfare are not compromised. We will determine if your housing is suitable based on the distance from your housing to your work site of activity, cost, what is included in your housing, who lives there, how many people live there, how many beds in the home, and other factors. Please understand that pre-arranged housing involved negotiations with the housing coordinator as it related to rent charged, furnishings secured and number of students per room. Not fulfilling the housing agreement creates a hardship for the landlord/ housing coordinator and the students who remain in the housing. GEC strongly encourages you to live in your pre-approved/ pre-arranged housing, if applicable. You may be held responsible for rent payments at prearranged housing even if you choose to move out.

I’ve entered the United States, and I’ve decided to hang out with my friends/ family members instead of reporting to my employer. Is this okay?

No. It is a violation of your program regulations to not report to the Host Site of Activity as listed on your DS-2019 form. You must report to the Host Site of Activity within 10 days of your arrival, and you must put forth a good faith effort to work at this Host Site of Activity for the duration of your program. Not reporting to or leaving your employer early is considered visa fraud, and it will lead to your immediate program sponsorship termination.

What is program sponsorship termination?

GEC is your J-1 visa sponsor. You must have a sponsor for the entire time you are in the U.S. under the J-1 visa program. If you violate the terms and conditions and the regulations of your program (not validating your program, not reporting to your employer, not updating your address within 10 days of any change, not answering your monthly monitoring questionnaires, working at a second or replacement job without GEC’s written permission, etc.), your program sponsorship will be terminated. Termination means that you no longer have a sponsor in the United States, and you are required to make immediate arrangements to leave the U.S. and return home. Your SEVIS record will be marked accordingly. Program termination has a serious negative impact on your record and may affect future return visits to the U.S. Don’t let this happen to you. Comply with the terms and conditions and regulations of your program.

Ready to start your USA adventure?

Work & Travel (J-1 Program)

Home » Work and Travel (J-1 Program)

University students from around the world can work in seasonal positions, live in and learn about the United States, travel, and make friends during their summer break from school. The WISE® Work and Travel Program in the USA provides the visa sponsorship, placement in a seasonal job at resort and vacation destinations throughout the US, as well as housing assistance and ongoing personal support to make this dream a reality for thousands of participants.

This program is open to university students from around the world who want to experience another culture while earning money to support their stay. By working throughout the United States, participants have a unique chance to experience the United States as more than just tourists, and to share their own traditions and culture with people from both the U.S. and abroad. By living abroad in an English speaking environment, gaining some practical experience, and meeting friends that last a lifetime, participants benefit from the experience for years to come.

WISE Atlanta Office 1853 Piedmont Rd Suite 200 Marietta, GA 30066

Phone: (770) 579-0567 Fax: (770) 579-0219

Information for interested students​

Select a topic on the tabs below for more information. If you have any questions or require additional information regarding this program, please e-mail us at [email protected]

To meet the basic requirements for the Work & Travel Program, you must be:

At least 18 years of age or older. In good health. Comfortable using English in a work environment. A full-time student pursuing a degree at a university recognized by the education ministry of their home nation. Willing to participate in an unskilled or service sector position. Willing and able to abide by the rules of the Work & Travel Program as well as the laws of the United States. Ready and committed to pursuing cultural exchange opportunities with an open mind and a positive attitude.

You may participate in the WISE Work and Travel program during your summer vacation. This means that if you live in the Northern Hemisphere, your program dates are in the summer season in the U.S., starting as early as May. If you live in the Southern Hemisphere, your program dates are in the winter season of the U.S., starting as early as December. Your actual dates of participation depend on your university’s official summer holiday dates. You can only participate in the program during these dates for a maximum of 4 months.

Below is a list of program dates for each of the countries eligible for participation. Please note that these dates are subject to change.

The WISE® Foundation works with Work and Travel Program overseas partners in Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa. For information on a partner in your country please contact WISE® at  [email protected]

Please note that once WISE® receives your application, the process takes 4-6 weeks. Once you receive your DS-2019 form you will still need to go to the US Consulate to interview for the J1 visa. Some consulates take up to 4 weeks to issue the visa. Please plan ahead so that you can arrive on time for work in the US!

WISE® Placement

What types of jobs do students selecting WISE® Placements receive?

WISE® will arrange a basic, entry level job for you, much like one that a student in the US would have during a school break.

You will not normally be able to have a position that offers training for your future career, but you will certainly be able to learn a lot through your job if you are open to new people and experiences. The Work & Travel Program does not require that participants have special training or professional skills. We just ask that you have a positive attitude about hard work! Earn money while you get to know the country as no tourist can. Here is a sample of the types of businesses where WISE® places students in the country. These types of positions are located in many states across the US.

Theme Parks

National Parks

Retail Stores

Ski Resorts

When WISE® receives your application through one of our overseas partners, we will review your interests and coordinate the available employers that best fit your interests and skills to arrange for an offer. Please note that not all first choices can be met, and the most popular locations and positions are filled first so applying early is very important.

WISE® Services for you include

Guaranteed job placement prior to arrival.

Experienced, friendly staff.

Thorough review of WISE® placements to ensure suitable opportunities and accessibility to housing and transportation.

Affordable housing arrangements (avg. $250-$300 per month) or assistance through your employer.

Documentation and support for obtaining your J-1 visa (DS-2019 form)

Assistance with your visa application.

Comprehensive health insurance.

Pre-departure orientation.

Assistance in obtaining Social Security Card.

An Emergency, toll-free 24-hour assistance telephone number: 1-888-242-7456.

Support from your WISE® partner organization before your arrival, and support from WISE® Offices and Staff while you are in the US.

Detailed participant handbook.

Post-arrival orientation through your host site.

Self Placement Eligible students are allowed to arrange their own placement. If you elect to arrange your own placement, you will be required to collect a job offer and host employer agreement from your placement. You can get this paperwork from your local WISE® Work & Travel Overseas Partner Agency. WISE must then vet and approve this placement. This option is a great solution for 2nd timers on the program or those students who have specific preferences for their placements.

There are certain positions that WISE® does not consider acceptable for the SELF Placement program. WISE® reserves the right to reject any job offer if the position is deemed to jeopardize the applicant’s well being and/or safety or that would in the judgment of WISE® not suitably represent the cultural exchange objectives of this program. Please consult with your local WISE® Work & Travel Overseas Partner Agency prior to signing up for a job that may not be allowed.

Advice to students about Self-Placed Positions Every year, some participants encounter problems because they did not know enough about their self-placed position. Some students arrive to discover that there is no longer a position for them, or that there is nowhere for them to live. Although WISE® calls to make sure that all job offers are acceptable, students should take the steps necessary to make sure that the position they have arranged is secure and acceptable to them.

Applications should

Before the interview, make certain that the position is definite, and that housing will be available.

Before agreeing to work for an employer, verify that the job is acceptable with the local WISE® Work & Travel Overseas Partner Agency.

Inform the employer that WISE® will be calling to confirm the job offer.

Keep in touch with the employer before arrival to make certain that everything is in order. Some of the larger employers over hire, since many applicants who accept the job may not actually show up. It is very important that participants make their employers aware that they are definitely coming!

Get detailed travel directions to their employment site.

WISE Foundation P.O. Box 1332 Dyersburg TN-38025, USA

• 731-287-9948
• [email protected]

• Contact the Work & Travel Program
• 1-415-459-5397
• 1-800-432-4643
• Contact W&T

Work and Travel USA for International Exchange Students

Get ready for the experience of a lifetime.

Work and Travel USA Highlights

• Spend up to four months working at a U.S. business​
• Gain real-world job skills and career contacts​
• Improve your English and your confidence​
• Share your culture while discovering America
• Make new friends and have fun!

What CHI Offers

CHI serves as your program sponsor.

We issue your Form DS 2019, to help you apply for your J-1 visa.

If desired, we arrange employment.

Our professional staff support you every step of the way.

Work and Travel USA Program Options

There are two program options: Job Assisted  and Self Placed

Job Assisted

Self-placed, work and travel requirements.

• Between 18 and 30 years old
• A full-time university student
• Capable and comfortable in an English-only work environment
• Able to show you have sufficient funds to financially support yourself in the U.S.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cultural events can be:

• A day trip to a nearby big city
• Going to a local sporting event
• Visiting a museum
• A barbecue with friends
• A trip to the beach
• Participate in an international potluck
• Each participant is required to fill out a monthly report located within their profile in SEVIS.
• The monthly report is a way for CHI to stay informed about any changes in student housing or employment, as well as to keep track of the cultural activities participants enjoy.
• Login to your SEVIS account and click on the “Monthly Report” section.
• If you have trouble accessing the monthly report form online, call CHI directly for assistance.
• SEVIS : Login to wt.chinet.org , go to “Cultural Guides” and choose your state. A number of resources are available to help you find cultural events in your area.
• CHI “Get Out There” Facebook Group : Active participants are able to join CHI’s private Facebook group . This lively group allows participants across the U.S. to communicate about cultural events and share information.
• Newsletters: CHI will send you weekly newsletters throughout your program with news, cultural information and program updates. We will also share contest opportunities and ways to get involved. Keep an eye out for them!
• Email : Participants are always encouraged to contact CHI directly for help in finding cultural events in their area. Just e-mail [email protected]  and someone will be in touch. Check your e-mail often as CHI will be contacting you throughout your program with more information.

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“Sometimes, people take part in the program for five years in a row.” Work and Travel USA program — all important information at first hand

How does one enroll in the Work and Travel USA program? What is the cost to participate? How are the states and jobs chosen? How is the salary paid? Our article includes all the crucial details from a person who has already taken part in the program twice.

Work and Travel Program—Basic Information

“Work and Travel” is an international cultural exchange program that allows students from all over the world to come to the United States for several months and legally work there. The benefits for students are obvious: gaining experience living and working in another country, improving English in a natural environment, meeting people from different parts of the world, etc. 

Students from each particular country have their own dates and duration of stay on the program. For example, for residents of Poland, this period is 4 months (from May 25 to September 30); for students from Spain, it is 4.5 months (from May 24 to October 7); and for Belarusians, it is 2 months (from June 25 to September 1). The Summer Work and Travel 2023 season dates for all countries can be found here . Furthermore, after work, you are given an additional month to travel around the United States (if desired).

You can get into the program through intermediary organizations in your home country. They are also called sponsors. Your sponsor’s job is to help in any way possible with travel arrangements, finding jobs, housing, transportation, etc. 

Most of the work in the program is seasonal in the service industry. You can see on  this map how many participants in a wide variety of states and their cities are willing to hire students during the Work Travel 2023 program. 

Interestingly, all program participants must read the William Wilberforce Act , which explains the rights they have in the United States.

“Don’t wait too long to apply—it’s much harder to get a visa now”

The story of participating in the Work and Travel program and learning about U.S. culture has been shared with us by  Maxim . 

— I learned about the Work and Travel program before university from my older brother’s stories. Therefore, I decided to participate in the program immediately after my first year. Then COVID-19 happened, and the whole program was in question, but I managed to get to the U.S. Embassy in Minsk and obtain a visa just a couple of days before its closure. 

Unfortunately, again because of the coronavirus, flights became more expensive and anti-covid measures were stricter, but with some difficulty, I was able to fly to the United States. 

A year ago, in 2022, I decided to participate in the program again, and it turned out to be another adventure: I flew to Armenia to get an American visa and then made my way to the United States by roundabout means in the summer.

— If I’m not mistaken, applications for the Work and Travel program open each year in September-October. If you’re sure you want to go, there’s no point in procrastinating, especially now that it’s taking longer to get a visa because of restrictions. However, in 2022 I applied for the program in February and successfully flew to the U.S. 

There are two ways to participate in the program: Full-Service (you are helped with looking for a job) and Self-Arranged (you look for a job yourself). The first option costs about $200 more than the second. 

In the case of Full-Service, your application form with all the information is submitted to a special site where there are employers from the USA. They all see your application and can offer you a job if they want. You can also see the employers on the site and send them your applications yourself. As for the state, you specify your preferences by region when you create your application.

The main requirements of the program are to be a full-time student, to be no older than 28 years old (if we’re talking about Belarus), and to have basic knowledge of English. The documents you need are a passport and a certificate from the university.

The cost of participation in the Work and Travel program increases slightly over the course of the year. As a result, applying for the program in February is more expensive than applying in September. But on average, you will need to pay about $1500 . It should be understood that the cost of the program does not include airfare and getting a visa at the U.S. embassy.

Now, I’ll tell you about the experience I had. In 2020, I worked at the famous amusement park in Ohio named Cedar Point. I was basically standing outside the ride, checking passengers and securing their seat belts. 

In 2022, I was working in Rhode Island and combining two jobs, all in hotels. My main job was at the front desk at a Howard Johnson hotel chain, and my second job was serving breakfast guests at a Hilton hotel chain. 

The pay varied depending on where you worked. In 2022, I was paid every week; I can’t remember about 2020. The rate itself also depends on the state and type of work. Different states have different minimum rates per hour, so the average wages are different too. 

In 2020, I got $7.65 per hour, which is very low even by U.S. standards. At the same time, we worked 60 hours a week, and under U.S. law, every hour over 40 hours a week (at the same job) is considered overtime and must be paid at the 1.5 rate. But for some reason, we didn’t get paid for overtime. 

In 2022, I was already getting $15.5 an hour, but I was also working a lot: an average of 90+ hours per week; there was even one week when I worked over 100 hours. The thing is, in addition to the two jobs I mentioned, sometime in the middle of the summer, the manager of my first hotel offered to help me carry linens around the hotel (this time I was already getting paid overtime).

It should be noted that the wage per hour listed on your job offer does not include taxes; accordingly, if you have specified $15 per hour, in fact you will get less. 

Nevertheless, most of the taxes you paid can be refunded . Employers are required by law to send you a special W-2 form by February of next year about the taxes you paid, from which you can use special services to get your money back. However, this usually takes several months.

Participating in this program is an incredible experience that will give you a lot of pleasant memories and allow you to meet interesting people from completely different cultures. This is an opportunity to greatly improve your English and speak at a radically new level. It is also a chance to make some extra money if you manage your time and expenses wisely. I consider myself very lucky to have been to the U.S. twice and to have lived there not as a tourist, but as a local. 

The country is definitely very different from my native Belarus. It has a different mentality, a different culture, and a different language. As with any country, the United States has both pluses and minuses. But overall, I have come to love this country in my own way. I liked the politeness and kindness of Americans: they do not want to spoil your mood, even if they have something wrong. 

I liked that everyone respects your personal space and doesn’t violate it, whether it’s in a store, on a bus, or in a hotel. I liked the standard of living of the average American, who can afford not to worry about not having a place to sleep or nothing to eat. 

I was inspired by the nature of the United States, although unfortunately I didn’t get to see much of it. It is a very diverse country with mesmerizing landscapes and many national parks. 

The problem for me was gastronomy and cuisine in the U.S. in general. Of course, there is a huge variety of national restaurants, from Japanese to Belarusian. But standard American cuisine, which we have all heard about, is everywhere. And it’s incredibly greasy and sweet. It gives you a direct sense of all the harm to your health. 

In local stores, it was impossible or very difficult to find some products to which I’m so used in Belarus. For example, buckwheat, bread, high quality cottage cheese, and dairy products in general. There were also questions about the quality of fruits and vegetables. 

Another issue in the United States is that people do not always feel safe. Especially in the dysfunctional areas of big cities, this is true. I remember walking through a social housing neighborhood in New York City at night, and I have to say, I was constantly on my guard and preparing to run.

Furthermore, I obviously have a strong love for Belarus, so even in such a brief period of time, I still managed to miss it.

Both times I spent 2.5 months in the U.S.—a total of almost 5 months. It is possible to participate in the program more than once. As a result, there have been cases where people have participated in the program five years in a row. Personally, I’m not 100% sure yet whether I will participate this year. But I am thinking about it.

I am responsible for editorial work. I write expert interviews and guides.

13 Best Remote Work Travel Programs

One of the most significant advantages of remote work is the freedom to work from anywhere. For many remote workers, this means working from home or in local co-working spaces. However, some take advantage of their flexibility by traveling to different locations worldwide while working.

In this article, we'll explore 13 of the most popular remote work and travel programs , including their perks, duration of the trips, and programs' costs.

What is a Remote Work Travel Program?

Remote working programs enable digital nomads , entrepreneurs, and location-independent professionals to travel and work in unique places. These programs foster connections among remote workers and facilitate immersive experiences in the chosen destinations.

They cater to the needs of remote workers who want to travel the world with a community of like-minded individuals, providing assistance with housing, co-working spaces, and WiFi in other countries.

This way, participants don't have to travel alone and can live and work with other remote workers, facilitating networking and building professional and friendly connections.

Here are twelve of the best remote work travel programs:

Top 13 Remote Work Travel Programs

• Remote Year
• Noma Collective
• Hacker Paradise
• Venture with Impact
• Cowork Paradise
• The Nomad Escape
• Work Wanderers
• Nomad Train

Let's now look at them one by one.

1. Remote Year

Cost: From $1,535 per month

Cost Includes: Housing and utilities, travel between itinerary locations, co-working space, professional and social programming

Program Duration: From one week to a whole year

Remote Year offers an array of programs for digital nomads, with itineraries ranging from one week to a whole year. Designed to connect professionals, foster networking opportunities, and simplify the travel experience, Remote Year handles the logistics of planning and accommodations, providing travelers with the freedom to work and socialize. With various trip packages and prices, Remote Year makes discovering new places, from the Americas to South Africa and the Far East, accessible to nomads of all budgets and backgrounds.

Cost: Depends on location and length of stay

Cost Includes: Housing and utilities, and co-working space

Program Duration: Flexible length of stay

Selina functions more like a hotel company, allowing travelers to book accommodations and co-working spaces based on their needs and preferences. With a pay-as-you-go model, Selina offers flexible booking options in various countries worldwide. Co-working spaces are typically located near accommodations, and travelers are encouraged to contribute to the local community during their stay. Selina handles the practicalities, providing travelers with flexible cancellation policies and a tailored experience.

Cost: Varies depending on location and package

Cost Includes: Housing and utilities, co-working space, and professional and social programming

Outsite offers a blend of co-living and co-working spaces in various locations worldwide, accommodating digital nomads seeking a comfortable, productive work environment. With a focus on work-life balance, Outsite provides access to a range of amenities, including high-speed internet, communal spaces, and outdoor activities. Membership plans offer flexible booking options and discounted rates, making Outsite an attractive choice for both short- and long-term stays.

4. Noma Collective

Cost: From $1,550 to $5,500 per retreat

Cost Includes: Housing and utilities, co-working space with high-speed internet, professional and social daily events, yoga classes

Program Duration: 2-4 week work/vacation trips

Noma Collective offers a flavorful blend of work and play for digital nomads embarking on their new location-independent journey. With dreamy destinations like tropical Belize, vibrant Oaxaca, wild Kenya, and energetic Buenos Aires, Noma Collective guides nomads on a journey of meaningful connections. Yet, what sets Noma Collective apart is its focus on remote work-life balance by curating tons of events, local experiences, and wellness activities, including morning yoga sessions and at least one activity a day to choose from! Expect not only fully-furnished private rooms and co-working spaces with speedy WiFi but also personal betterment and lifelong memories with fellow nomads.

5. Hacker Paradise

Cost: From $2,290 per month

Cost Includes: Housing and utilities, co-working space, professional and social programming

Program Duration: Different trip lengths

Hacker Paradise emphasizes flexibility, allowing digital nomads to join trips of varying durations and destinations, from European city breaks to unique retreats in Bali or Kenya. With different trip lengths and prices, Hacker Paradise is an excellent choice for nomads just beginning their journey or those eager to meet new people. The program includes accommodations, co-working spaces, social events, and mentoring opportunities.

You may also be interested in:

6. WiFi Tribe

Cost: From $900 - $2,000 per retreat

Cost Includes: Housing and utilities, co-working space, weekend trips, and activities

Program Duration: Between 4, 6, and 8-week Chapters based on what fits your schedules best

WiFi Tribe connects digital nomads with local cultures and fellow travelers through four-week chapters in various locations worldwide. With no pre-set routes, participants can choose between shared or solo rooms, and longer stays are available at discounted rates. WiFi Tribe's costs cover WiFi, accommodations, utilities, cleaning, and workspaces.

7. Nomadico

Cost: Varies depending on the location and length of stay

Cost Includes: Affordable weekly and monthly stays, workspace and fast WiFi, community events, and a ton of adventures with fellow digital nomads

Nomadico offers a unique approach to remote work travel by partnering with locals to create affordable coliving homes and meaningful communities for digital nomads and remote workers. Focusing on authentic destinations, Nomadico ensures comfortable accommodations and great workspaces for high productivity levels. They offer a diverse range of locations for nomads to explore while working remotely, including top digital nomad destinations like Taghazout (Morocco), Madeira (Portugal), and Medellin (Colombia). In each of these destinations, they have a dedicated community manager in loco who regularly organizes events and adventures to help connect members and create an unforgettable experience.

8. Nomadize

Cost: From $2,900 per month

Cost Includes: Accommodation and utilities, co-working space, professional and social programming, and pre-selected adventure activities

Program Duration: Month-long stays

Nomadize functions as a comprehensive travel membership-only platform, assembling retreats from diverse corners of the globe and presenting them with special travel deals. The platform features remote work experiences that accentuate region-specific activities and immersive wellness workshops, like yoga and meditation in Bali or Muay Thai in Chang Mai. Once a digital nomad selects one of their experiences, they can conveniently arrange their travel through the Nomadize app, taking advantage of the discounted rates available.

9. Venture with Impact

Cost: From $2,100 per month

Cost Includes: Housing and utilities, co-working space, day trips, professional and language support, and partnership with a local nonprofit or volunteer organization

Venture with Impact programs combine productivity with social impact, connecting digital nomads with local volunteering and community projects. Month-long stays are available in countries like Mexico, Colombia, Thailand, and Portugal, and additional months can be added at discounted rates. Alongside co-working spaces and high-speed internet, Venture with Impact provides cultural immersion opportunities, such as language courses and day trips, allowing nomads to truly connect with their chosen destination.

10. Unsettled

Cost: From $2,000 per program

Program Duration: one-two week programs and month-long retreats

Unsettled offers one or two-week adventures and month-long retreats aimed at providing remote working solo travelers with the tools and connections needed for personal and professional growth. With experiences in locations like Thailand, Ibiza, Tuscany, or Camino de Santiago, Unsettled attracts senior leaders and teams from respected remote companies. Costs include curated local experiences and resources for work.

11. Co-work Paradise

Cost: Starts at €2,885 for an 8-day retreat

Cost Includes: Individual lodging, coworking area, excursions and social events, meals, and mastermind with other accomplished entrepreneurs

Program Duration:

Co-work Paradise offers curated work, and travel experiences called "Masterminds" for digital nomad business owners, entrepreneurs, and remote professionals seeking a blend of productivity, networking, and adventure. With a focus on personal development and community building, Co-work Paradise provides accommodations, co-working spaces, workshops, and local experiences in tropical locations. The all-inclusive pricing ensures a seamless experience for participants, making Co-work Paradise an attractive choice for those looking to enhance their remote working journey.

12. The Nomad Escape

Cost: Varies depending on the destination and duration (typically from $1,500 to $2,500)

Cost Includes: Accommodation, co-working spaces, workshops, local activities, and experiences, airport transfers, and selected meals

Program Duration: Between one to four weeks retreats

The Nomad Escape organizes curated work and travel retreats for digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and remote professionals, offering a unique blend of co-living, co-working, and business networking opportunities. With programs in various destinations like Bali or Madeira, Nomad Escape provides accommodations, workspaces, workshops, and local experiences, allowing participants to connect, learn, and explore. Nomad Escape's all-inclusive pricing ensures a seamless experience, making it an appealing option for those seeking a transformative work and travel journey.

13. Work Wanderers

Cost: Varies based on the destination and duration (typically from $1,800 to $2,800)

Cost Includes: Private and shared coliving accommodation with digital nomad community, breakfast daily, space to cowork and stay productive, yoga, wellness & introspection sessions, career development & skillshare workshops, social events & activities

Program Duration: From one week to one month

Work Wanderers offers co-living and co-working retreats for digital nomads and remote professionals in various locations worldwide. It focuses on community building and cultural immersion and provides curated accommodations, workspaces, and organized activities to help participants connect and collaborate. Flexible booking options and competitive pricing make Work Wanderers attractive for those seeking a well-rounded work and travel experience.

How To Choose The Perfect Remote Worker Program For You

When it comes to finding the right remote work and travel program, there are a few things you should think about to make sure you'll have an amazing experience that suits your needs.

First, take a close look at the program's cost and what's included, like places to stay, coworking spots, fun activities, and any extra perks. You'll also want to think about how long the program lasts and whether it fits into your life and schedule.

One of the best parts of these programs is meeting new people , so make sure you choose a location that helps you connect with other remote workers and offers cool events or workshops for personal and professional growth.

You might be also interested in:

And, of course, it's super important to find a program that takes your work seriously, with reliable internet and great workspaces, so you can stay productive while exploring new places . Keep these things in mind, and you'll be well on your way to finding a remote work and travel program that's perfect for you!

Final Thoughts

As each remote work travel program offers its own unique experience and can be a significant investment, it's crucial to thoroughly research and compare programs to find the one that best aligns with your needs and preferences. Consider what knowledge and experiences you'd like to gain while traveling, as well as your work schedule and space requirements. Some prefer to travel in a group, while others opt for a more independent journey.

No matter your preference, there's a program available to help you maximize your remote working adventure. So, explore your options and embrace the boundless opportunities that await you in the world of remote work and travel.

Ready To Work and Travel to Your Dream Destination?

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Work and Travel USA 2023

• SALARY 12$/hour+%
• SC, North Myrtle Beach
• SALARY from 10$/hour
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• SALARY from 700$/per week
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• FAQ interviews, program fees
• Job job search, second job, salary
• Documents Visa, flight tickets, job offer
• Life in USA Cash, first steps, transport, communication
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H-2A Visa Program

Are you a farmer who needs seasonal or temporary workers for planting, cultivating, and harvesting crops but domestic workers are in short supply?

On This Page

About the h-2a visa program.

The H-2A temporary agricultural workers program – often called the H-2A visa program - helps American farmers fill employment gaps by hiring workers from other countries.

Get started here by:

• Learning the H-2A visa application basics
• Creating a personalized H-2A visa application checklist built around your hiring needs
• Estimating the costs of hiring workers through the H-2A visa program

Already started an H-2A visa application? Check the approval status of your cases with the Department of Labor or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. To track the status of your cases over time, sign in or sign up for a farmers.gov H-2A dashboard account through login.gov.

The H-2A temporary agricultural program helps employers who anticipate a lack of available domestic workers to bring foreign workers to the U.S. to perform temporary or seasonal agricultural work including, but not limited to, planting, cultivating, or harvesting labor.

Depending on the type of work you need, temporary or seasonal agricultural work can happen on farms, plantations, ranches, nurseries, ranges, greenhouses, orchards, or other similar locations.

• Seasonal  work is when you need more help than usual because the work is tied to a certain time of year by an event or pattern, like a short annual growing cycle.
• Temporary  work lasts no longer than 1 year.

If you have been affected by a strike, work stoppage, or layoff within 60 days of when work will start, you may not qualify for the program.

To participate in the program, you’ll work with your State Workforce Agency to earnestly recruit U.S. workers. The State Workforce Agency will publicly post your job order to recruit U.S. workers. You must accept eligible referrals of U.S. workers who apply for the job, and also contact any former U.S. employees at their last known contact address. When a qualified U.S. worker applies, you must employ them until 50 percent of the work period specified in the work contract has passed.  After 50 percent, there is no continued affirmative obligation to hire.

If you are a worker looking to apply for a job through the H-2A Visa Program, learn more at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services .

Vertical Tabs H-2A Program Page

Steps for participating in the h-2a visa program.

Learn about the basic steps for hiring new workers through the H-2A visa program and for extending the employment contract for current H-2A workers.  Then create your personalized H-2A visa checklist through our interactive tool.

H-2A Visa Application Paths

The H-2A visa application and extension processes generally involve these steps and federal agencies.

The standard filing process for hiring H-2A workers should take around 75 days and will include the following steps.

• The farmer applies for a domestic job order with the local State Workforce Agency.
• The farmer applies for a temporary labor certification with the Department of Labor’s Chicago National Processing Center.
• Department of Labor’s Chicago National Processing Center provides the farmer with its final determination.
• The farmer completes an H-2A visa petition with US Citizenship and Immigration Services.
• Workers apply for the H-2A visa with the Department of State and complete consulate interviews.
• Approved workers travel to the worksite and arrive on the start date with an arrival/departure record.

The farmer should consider the emergency filing process if H-2A workers are needed in less than 75 days.

During emergency filing, the farmer should submit a job order with the State Workforce Agency and apply for a temporary labor certification with the Department of Labor’s Chicago National Processing Center at the same time. Then the farmer should follow the same steps as a standard filing.

• Workers apply for the H-2A visa with the Department of State’s National Processing Center and complete consulate interviews.

Immediate Need

Farmers who need workers in 44 days or less should email the Department of Labor’s Chicago National Processing Center at [email protected] to ensure there’s enough time to complete all H-2A visa program steps before the start date.  The email subject line should say “H-2A Program Question: Immediate Need for H-2A Workers.  Farmers will need to provide justification for using the emergency filing process.

Extending Workers

Farmers have two options for extending workers on a current H-2A visa contract.

A short-term extension of less than two weeks

• The farmer submits a Petition for a Non-Immigrant Worker to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services.

A long-term extension of more than two weeks

• The farmer sends a notice to the US Department of Labor’s Chicago National Processing Center that explains the request for an extension. 

H-2A Visa Callout

Create your h-2a visa checklist.

Answer a few short questions to create your personalized H-2A visa checklist for hiring temporary agricultural workers from other countries.

Costs of the H-2A Visa Program

Use this table to understand and estimate the costs you'll be responsible for when hiring and employing foreign workers under the H-2A Visa Program.

IMPORTANT: You must report to the Department of Labor if you're made aware that workers were charged a fee for employment by recruiters or any other representatives.

Expenses You May Be Able to Collect

As the employer, you can seek or receive payment from workers for anything related to:

• Transport expenses and daily subsistence from wages, but you must reimburse these costs once 50% of the contract is completed.
• Up to $12.26 per day (for providing 3 meals per day) if cooking facilities aren't available.

Deductions are subject to Fair Labor Standards Act requirements.

Expenses You Can't Deduct

As the employer, you can’t seek or receive payment from workers for anything related to obtaining the H-2A labor certification, including:

• Your attorney or agent fees
• Application fees
• Recruitment costs

Guaranteed Payment (3/4 Guarantee)

Under the H-2A Visa Program, employers must guarantee workers employment hours equal to at least 75% of the workdays in the contract period. The employer will pay workers who weren’t offered sufficient hours.

For example, if a contract is for a 10-week period, where a normal workweek is 6 days a week, 8 hours per day, the worker would need to be guaranteed employment for at least 360 hours (10 weeks x 48 hours per week = 480 hours x 75% = 360 hours)

For more information, see the U.S. Department of Labor's 3/4 Guarantee Fact Sheet .

Taxing Workers

H-2A workers aren't required to pay Social Security and Medicare taxes on their wages. In addition, the employer is not required to pay these taxes on the worker either.

Workers may owe U.S. federal income tax when they file income tax returns for the year. If both the worker and the employer agree to withhold federal income tax, employers can withhold. In order for the employer to withhold taxes from the worker's compensation, the worker must complete and return Form W-4, Employee's Withholding Allowance Certificate, to the employer. Note that some states allow employers to withhold the employee’s portion of workers compensation. Review the workers compensation laws for your state .

For more information, see these resources:

IRS Information for Foreign Agricultural Workers on H-2A Visas

Form 943, Employer’s Annual Federal Tax Return of Agricultural Employees

Publication 51 (Circular A), Agricultural Employer’s Tax Guide

Laws and Obligations

Keep these laws and obligations in mind throughout the H-2A application and work contract period.

Employers can’t hold or confiscate workers’ passports or other immigration documents.

There can be no strike or lockout during a labor dispute at the worksite.

Employers can’t discriminate against, or discharge without just cause, any person who:

Has filed a complaint

Consulted with an attorney or an employee of a legal assistance program

Testified, or in any manner, exercised or asserted on behalf of himself/herself or others any right or protection afforded by sec. 218 of the INA or the H-2A regulations

For more information, see the  U.S. Department of Labor's Employment Law Guide for Temporary Agricultural Workers .

E-Verify is a federal program that allows enrolled employers to confirm the eligibility of their employees to work in the United States.

E-Verify is a voluntary program. However, these types of employers may be required to use the program:

Those with federal contracts or subcontracts that contain the Federal Acquisition Regulation E-Verify clause

Those in states or locales that have legislation mandating the use of E-Verify

Those required to use E-Verify by a federal ruling

For more information, see  https://www.e-verify.gov/ .

Still have questions?

Contact:  [email protected]

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BOOK WITH ROYAL CARIBBEAN

All your travel needs taken care of.

SAVE ON FLIGHTS

LOWEST AIRFARE GUARANTEE

We’ve negotiated special rates and passed the savings on to you for the lowest prices around. You'll get the lowest priced fare, or we'll credit you back 110% of the difference to spend onboard.

EASY TO RESERVE

Just one click away to book your flight today .

CHOICE OF AIRLINES

Enjoy complete flexibility with your choice of flights on your preferred airlines.

ASSURED ARRIVAL

When your vacation comes around, you don't want to miss the ship because of flight delays or cancellations. Book airfare through our Air2Sea program and should an issue arise, our Emergency Travel Team will work with our airline partners to do everything possible to get you to your cruise.

24/7 SUPPORT

Our specialists are available to you whenever you need them. So you can enjoy peace of mind — and we take care of the rest.

All You Need Is Royal Caribbean Travel Protection 1

CANCEL FOR ANY REASON 2

Cancel your trip and we have two options, cancellation for specified, non-excluded reasons and get up to 100% of your unused prepaid trip cost or for any other reason, get 90% future cruise credits.

*Non-insurance feature by Royal Caribbean. Program Restrictions Apply

Cancel your trip and we have two options, cancellation for specified, non-excluded reasons and get up to 100% of your unused prepaid trip cost or for any other reason, get 30% future cruise credits.

TRAVEL DELAY COVERAGE 3

Don't let delays slow you down. The Royal Caribbean Travel Protection Program covered travel expenses when you've been delayed, so you can get on with your vacation without skipping a beat.

MEDICAL PROTECTION 3

If you get sick or injured during your vacation, get the care you need with a vacation protection plan. The travel protection program reimburses for medical expenses as well as emergency transportation by air or land.

LUGGAGE PROTECTION 3

Don't lose it over lost luggage. The Royal Caribbean Travel Protection Program has your bags covered up to $1,500 if they're lost, stolen or damaged and up to $500 for covered replacement items if they're delayed.

Whatever comes up, wherever you are, whenever you need it; we're always here to help. Because vacations should be all about peace of mind.

*Emergency travel assistance services provided by CareFree Travel Assistance™

1  Royal Caribbean Travel Protection is an optional travel protection add-on to your cruise booking and is available through Royal Caribbean for residents in all states except New York. New York state residents who wish to purchase the product may visit https://travelcruisecare.com to enroll directly with Aon Affinity. If added, your Royal Caribbean Travel Protection plan is not effective until the plan cost has been paid. Plan cost is not automatically included as part of your initial cruise deposit.

2  Travel insurance benefits are administered by Aon Affinity and underwritten by Arch Insurance Company, with administrative offices in Jersey City, NJ (NAIC #11150) under Policy Form series LTP 2013. This is a brief overview of the coverages. Subject to terms, conditions and exclusions. This is a general overview of insurance benefits available. Coverages may vary in certain states and not all benefits are available in all jurisdictions. Please refer to your certificate of benefits or policy of insurance for detailed terms, conditions and exclusions that apply. Aon Affinity is the brand name for the brokerage and program administration operations of Affinity Insurance Services, Inc. (TX 13695); (AR100106022); in CA & MN, AIS Affinity Insurance Agency, Inc. (CA 0795465); in OK, AIS Affinity Insurance Services, Inc.; in CA, Aon Affinity Insurance Services, Inc. (CA 0G94493), Aon Direct Insurance Administrators and Berkely Insurance Agency and in NY, AIS Affinity Insurance Agency. Any questions regarding the terms and conditions of the insurance benefits of any Royal Caribbean Travel Protection plan or any questions regarding any existing insurance coverages should be directed to Aon Affinity by calling Aon Affinity 1-800 453-4022.

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GET FROM POINT A TO POINT SEA

GROUND TRANSPORTATION

Leave the driving to someone else for a change, and start your vacation early with a smooth ride to the ship. Our ground transportation and expedited check-in programs include transfer services from the airport to your cruise ship and back, private limousines, luggage valet, fast region-specific check-ins, and convenient bus routes from Florida.

AIRPORT SHUTTLES

You can pre-purchase ground transportation and airport transfers to take you from your arrival airport to the ship on the day of your sailing, and from the pier to your departure airport on debarkation day. We recommend purchasing your transfer at least two weeks prior to sailing — just consult with your travel agent or call our Reservations department at 1-800-327-6700.

TRAIN TO PORT ON BRIGHTLINE

Turn the journey to your cruise into an enjoyable experience with Brightline's convenient train service. With key stations near top Florida ports, you can go from station to vacation without a hitch. Enjoy comfortable seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, a variety of food and beverage options, and friendly service. All designed to make your trip as pleasurable as your cruise.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO WE’LL SHUTTLE YOU TO YOUR SHIP

Royal Caribbean offers easy-to-purchase ground transfers to and from the cruise ship — just leave the details to us. 

Ease into your cruise adventure by letting Royal Caribbean safely get you to and from the ship with one of our easy-to-purchase ground transfers.

If you choose to make your own air arrangements or book air through our online ChoiceAir Travel Program you may wish to purchase ground transportation to the ship. Transfers are available for pre-purchase from the arrival airport to the pier on day of sailing and from the pier to the departure airport on debarkation day only. It is recommended that transfers are purchased two weeks prior to sailing. Please remember we require your flight information in order to promptly meet all guests.

To purchase your Royal Caribbean Guest Transfer or for additional information consult your travel agent or our Reservations Department at 1-800-327-6700.

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Routine Vaccines

It’s important to be up to date on recommended routine vaccines prior to travel, including Flu, RSV and COVID-19.

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Learn about CDC’s Traveler Genomic Surveillance Program that detects new COVID-19 variants entering the country.  

Sign up to get travel notices, clinical updates, & healthy travel tips.

See the full list of  Travel Health Notices , including:

Level 2 - Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Updated   Mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo June 10, 2024
• Chikungunya in Maldives May 28, 2024
• Global Polio May 23, 2024

Level 1 - Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Oropouche Fever in the Americas June 05, 2024
• Global Measles May 28, 2024
• Meningococcal Disease in Saudi Arabia - Vaccine Requirements for Travel During the Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimages May 20, 2024

There are no Warning , Alert, Watch, COVID-19 Very High, COVID-19 High, COVID-19 Moderate, COVID-19 Low, COVID-19 Unknown, Level 4, or Level 3 notices currently in effect.

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