J1 visa camp counselor requirements. So if you're wondering 'what is a J1 visa?', here .
J1 visa camp counselor requirements Explore global opportunities with the J-1 Visa. AmeriCamp (formerly CampCareUSA) by Intrax is an international J-1 Visa camp counselor program. J-1 Visa Categories The J-1 category is limited to certain positions/purposes Follow this step-by-step guide to apply for a J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa. Mar 10, 2025 · A J1 visa is a non-immigrant permit for people visiting the US for a short time. Learn requirements, documents, and interview tips for a smooth process. (Canadian citizens need only the proof of sponsorship documentation and do not need to schedule an embassy interview). In Connecting participants from around the world with the unique cultural experience of an American summer camp. Sponsors screen and select their program participants according to the eligibility criteria for each program category. WHAT IS THE CAMP AMERICA TRAINEE PROGRAM? The J-1 Trainee program permits participants to stay in the U. Ensure that participants have the required J1 visa health insurance. Obtaining Your J-1 Camp Counselor Visa After you are accepted to CIEE Camp Exchange USA and have received your camp placement, you will need to apply for the J-1 visa you need to travel to the U. The J1 visa allows foreign nationals to visit the United States to participate in programs performing as: an au pair camp counselor college or university student government visitor intern international visitor Oct 24, 2023 · A. Each visa has specific eligibility requirements. Camp employers are also charged with the same responsibilities as summer work travel host employers. Looking to work at summer camp but don't know what visa you need? Don't worry; we're here to help. state. To qualify for a J1 visa, the first thing you need to do is apply for an exchange program (study or work) through an assigned sponsor in the US. citizens over their summer breaks. Some J1 visa holders are subject to INA §212 (E) and will need to obtain Jun 24, 2025 · Join study and work exchange programs in the US with a J-1 visa. – You must be proficient in English. student visa for camp counselors, applicants must fulfill the following requirements: – Have a valid passport – Be accepted at an approved camp counselor program in the U. html The J1 visa is designated for educational and cultural exchange programs designated by the US Department of State and the Exchange Visitor Program and Designation Staff. ). camp settings, fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding. J-1 Visa Validity Periods The duration of your J-1 visa depends significantly on the specific category under which you fall. The J-1 program was established to bring scholars into the United States temporarily for a specific educational purpose, such as teaching or conducting research. Standard Duration The standard duration of a J-1 visa stay correlates directly with the Your J1 Visa Sponsor If you have received an offer from an American company for an internship, traineeship, summer job or camp counselor position, then you have already accomplished the most challenging task. Connecting students from around the world with a unique cultural adventure. Customs and Border Protection may admit the exchange visitor and any accompanying dependent family members into the United States in J-1 and J-2 classifications [1] if each applicant: Presents a valid passport; Valid J-1 or J-2 visa; and Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status (Form DS-2019), issued in the exchange visitor’s (or After you receive your J-1 Visa, you will coordinate the details of your arrival with Odyssey and your camp. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about the J-1 visa extension. This suggests that DOS is unlikely to approve such J2 visa applications. J1 Student Visa The J-1 visa in the United States is for people who wish to take part in work-and-study-based exchange and visitor programs in the U. How does it work? US summer camp employment requires that foreign nationals obtain a J1 Exchange Visitor Visa in the category consistent with the position accepted: camp counselors require a camp counselor visa and support staff require a summer work travel visa. These programs promote international exchange and learning across fields like education, research, business, medicine, and cultural exchange. Book your interview and pay the visa fee – Apply Early! Connecting participants from around the world with the unique cultural experience of an American summer camp. The Camp Counselor Program allows students and teachers to share their culture and ideas in U. Accordingly, consular officers are instructed to seek guidance if they come across a J2 visa application associated with a J1 camp counselor. Work Authorization: International students should consider the time it takes to secure a J1 visa (more on this in the “Visa Process” section) and plan their availability accordingly. Oct 4, 2024 · The J-1 visa is known as the Exchange Visitor visa. AmeriCamp is an international J-1 Visa cultural exchange program that brings international university students into the U. gov/genniv/ . The camp counselor exchange visitor program is a J1 visa program in which foreign nationals may spend a summer working in the United States. The current qualifications are as follows; Have a sponsor organization that accepts you into their program, be over the age of 18, have enough knowledge of the English language to interact with the campers, and be either a college or university student, youth worker, teacher, or Nov 19, 2021 · The BridgeUSA Camp Counselor Program enables post-secondary students, youth workers, and teachers to share their culture and ideas with the people of the United States in camp settings throughout the country. For example, the secondary school student, au pair, camp counselor, and summer job travel exchange categories do not allow a J-2 visa. The J1 exchange visitor program is designed to promote the interchange of persons, knowledge, and skills in the fields of education, arts, and sciences. Sep 10, 2025 · The J1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa designed for individuals participating in cultural exchange programs in the United States. Statistically, the J-1 visa was the Sep 14, 2025 · Orientation: Most camps require counselors to attend a pre-camp orientation or training session, which may begin a week or two before campers arrive. Let’s dive into the J-1 visa, including J-1 visa requirements, the J-1 application process and new updates. But what exactly is a J-1 visa, and what are the requirements for securing this visa? What is a J1 Visa? Planning to spend your summer as a camp counselor in the United States? The J1 visa is your gateway to an unforgettable cultural exchange experience at Camp New York. Visa Requirements: All participants must obtain a J-1 visa through the US embassy. , the applicant must be accepted to participate in a certified camp counselor exchange program in the U. Professors, scholars, research assistants, students, teachers, au pairs, and camp counselors are typical examples of exchange visitors who are eligible for the J1 visa. Some categories require that a personal interview be part of the screening and selection process. May 30, 2019 · Prior to the departure to the U. Maintain SEVIS Regulations Governing J1 Camp Participants Both the camp counselor and summer work travel programs are exchange visitor programs and are subject to Department of State regulations. Aug 29, 2024 · The J-1 visa extension process can be overwhelming due to its complex nature, however it can be a smooth experience by understanding the essentials and preparing properly. to live and work here among U. Kodem Law guides your cultural exchange journey seamlessly. The Visa Process J1 Visa for International Students If you’re an international student or a young person traveling to the United States for summer camp work, obtaining the appropriate visa is a critical step in the process. The US J1 visa lets you study, work, or train in the US under an approved program. This position provides housing, meals as well as pay. , au pair, camp counselor, teacher, work and travel, etc. What are the eligibility requirements for a U. Today, it also focuses on promoting cultural exchange with an exchange of skills between Americans and the rest of the world. That’s where AmeriCamp comes to the rescue. Essential resources for Camp USA participants including program guidelines, cultural tips, SEVIS requirements, Social Security applications, and frequently asked questions for international summer camp counselors in the United States. State Department designated sponsor for the J-1 Trainee program for the following categories and program durations: Education, Social Sciences, Library Sciences, Counseling and Social Services – 6 months Jan 13, 2025 · The J-1 classification (exchange visitors) is authorized for those who intend to participate in an approved program for the purpose of teaching, instructing or lecturing, studying, observing, conducting research, consulting, demonstrating special skills, receiving training, or to receive graduate medical education or training. The multifaceted programs enable foreign nationals to come to the U. So if you're wondering 'what is a J1 visa?', here Here’s a breakdown of the general requirements for all J-1 visa applicants, regardless of program type (e. So if you're wondering 'what is a J1 visa?', here What is a J-1 Visa? The J-1 visa for the USA is a non-immigrant visa. This visa category is specifically designed for cultural exchange and allows foreign nationals to work as camp counselors during the summer. – You Jul 29, 2025 · The J-1 Cultural Exchange Visa is a golden ticket for young adults worldwide to experience life in the United States through cultural exchange programs, such as the J-1 Camp Counselor, Intern, and Trainee Programs. http://travel. Most camps will have several days before campers arrive for new counselor orientation where you will learn the camp rules and expectations as well as the fun stuff like camp songs and activities. However, the common requirements include the following: – You must have a program sponsor. Consulate. Camp Counselor participants are authorized to participate in the program for up to four months during the long break between academic years as determined by the Department of State Steps you need to take Receive your DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility through your sponsor. You may be eligible for a J-1 visa if you intend to participate in a pre-approved work or study-based exchange program to teach, lecture, study, consult, conduct research, or receive training. In addition to program-specific criteria, all participants must satisfy English language proficiency and insurance requirements. S. S for up to 18 months to gain valuable skills in their career field. Life Adventures provides the sponsorship necessary in order to apply for the J-1 visa. This J1 visa program is limited to seasonal work, but eligible participants may be able to get an extension through their Dec 27, 2023 · To work as a camp counselor in the USA you will need a J1 VISA. From funding and medical insurance to Form DS-160, here's what you need for a successful application. These programs are sponsored by an educational or other nonprofit institution, which must be accredited through the Exchange Visitor Program designated by the U. What are the requirements to apply for a J1 Visa? The specific requirements for a J1 Visa depend on the category you are applying for. Sponsors are to provide participants with pre A foreign national who has been selected by a sponsor to participate in an exchange visitor program, and who is seeking to enter or has entered the United States temporarily on a non-immigrant J-1 visa or who has obtained J status in the United States based on a Form DS-2019 issued by the sponsor. This visa allows you to gain experience by receiving on-the-job training, teaching, or conducting research. , sponsors should provide participants with information on their duties and responsibilities as a camp counselor, contractual obligations relative to accepting a camp counselor position, and information on financial compensation. Participants can fill a variety of roles (au pair, camp counselor, or researcher to name a few), but as a company, you are most likely to work with J-1 visa interns and trainees. Learn how it differs from the F-1 and key J-1 student requirements. What are the reporting requirements for camp counselors with a J-1 visa? Camp counselors with a J-1 visa must report directly to their designated sponsor within 10 days of arrival in the U. to teach, study, conduct research, demonstrate special skills or receive on the job training for periods ranging from a few weeks to several years. Need a J-1 visa extension? Learn the requirements, application process, and grace period rules to help you extend your stay in the U. The J1 visa is the most common visa for individuals participating in cultural exchange programs, including summer Read More » Oct 17, 2023 · Exchange visitors may work in the United States if the work is part of the participants’ approved program (for example, J-1 teachers, professors, summer camp counselors, summer work travel, au pairs) or when the official program sponsor approves their employment (for example, J-1 students). Embassy or U. Read on to learn more about its rules and requirements. – Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover all tuition and living expenses while in Oct 31, 2025 · Learn about the J-1 visa, eligibility, and application. However, in order to complete an internship or work a summer job in the USA, you will need the J1 visa. Students and exchange visitors must be accepted by their schools or program sponsors before applying for visas. As a Department of State J-1 visa sponsor, AmeriCamp can help you every step of the way, from finding your ideal summer camp counselor role to securing Instructions for the J1 Visa Process – Camp Counselors USA Participants Please make sure you read through this entire document before you start applying (and before you call us for help)! The BridgeUSA J-1 Visa Program is, at its core, a program of cultural exchange. non-immigrant visa designed for exchange visitors who participate in approved cultural exchange programs. The J-1 Visa provides countless opportunities for international candidates looking to travel and gain experience in the United States. Life Adventures will provide specific details and assistance. The J1 visa is a great option for people who want to visit the United States. J-1 Requirements for Camp Counselors To qualify for a J-1 visa as a camp counselor in the U. Jan 30, 2025 · 6. Camp Counselor Program Camp Support Staff (Summer Work Travel The Camp Counselor program allows foreign nationals to work at summer camps for kids for a maximum of 4 months. Complete the DS-160 Online Application, https://ceac. It allows students, professionals, and other eligible individuals to gain experience through study, training, or research. Exchange visitor (J-1) visas are for individuals approved to participate in exchange visitor programs in the United States, which can range from student to research scholar to camp counselor to physician, among other programs. State Department. , or within 10 days of the start of their program, whichever is later. It is not a “job placement” or guest worker program. The State Department requires that all international participants in the Summer Work Travel Program (support staff) engage in cultural exchange activities that are not a part of their regular job, Including activities out of camp and within the community. We send thousands of applicants to work at summer camps in America every single year, and have done for nearly 25 years. As you can see, there are a lot of different steps involved in securing a J-1 camp counselor visa, and it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to start, or how to tackle the process yourself. However, your sufficient and conversational English skills would – also work for categories like Camp Counselor. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the J1 visa process, eligibility requirements, and how our team at Camp New York supports international participants every step of the way. Eligibility for Admission U. This guide provides detailed information to help international visitors prepare for their cultural exchange program. In some countries, a reciprocity fee is also assessed for the J1 camp counselor and summer work travel program. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the requirements for the J1 visa, covering eligibility criteria, documentation, application steps, and program Apr 5, 2022 · Eligibility for the J-2 visa depends on the specific program in which the J-1 visa holder is enrolled. To participate in a camp counselor program, the applicant must be at least 18 years old, proficient in English and are a post-secondary student, youth worker, and teacher or qualified with 9 FAM 402. To work as a camp counselor in America, you need to secure a J-1 camp counselor visa. Please see the list to see if this applies to you. Instructions for the J1 Visa Process – Camp Counselors USA Participants Returnee - Visa Application by Mail These instructions have changed since 2015 so please make sure you read through this entire document before you start applying (and before you call us for help)! Looking to work at summer camp but don't know what visa you need? Don't worry; we're here to help. Sep 12, 2025 · From students, teachers, and scholars to interns, trainees, au pairs, camp counselors, and physicians in structured programs, the J-1 category advances the United States’ objective of mutual understanding through the transfer of knowledge and skills. 1. Camp counselors typically work in the outdoors, where they lead children in hikes, canoe excursions, and other outdoor activities. 5-6 (D) (4) instructs DOS officers that J nonimmigrant camp counselors are not expected to be accompanied by dependents. 3 days ago · Here is a guide to help you remember everything you need to do when hiring J-1 visa camp staff. Nov 12, 2025 · The majority of international camp counselors in the US are hired through the J-1 Visa Exchange Visitor Program. student visa for camp counselors? In order to be eligible for a U. The visa application process will include both an online application and a visa interview at your nearest U. The short answer is “yes!” The J-1 visa is a document used by cultural exchange visitors which allows them to reside in the U. for the duration of their program. g. A J1 visa is a visa for an exchange visitor program in the US. A J-1 visa for Camp Counselors is a temporary exchange visitor visa that allows post-secondary students and youth workers to participate in a youth summer camp program in the U. That's meant we understand the J1 visa (the cultural exchange visa you'll need to work at camp) as well as anyone. S Apr 10, 2024 · Duration and Stay The J-1 visa allows different durations of stay depending on the specific program category. You can apply for a J-1 visa in one of the following exchange visitor categories: Au pair and educare Camp counselor College and university student Government visitor Intern International visitor . AIFS is a U. Apr 2, 2024 · Learn about the J-1 visa requirements. Learn rules, steps, timelines, and what to expect. Individuals with this visa type can participate in visitor programs for work and study, with the goal of also gaining exposure to the culture in the U. Aug 31, 2023 · 5. Each category, whether for research scholars, au pairs, camp counselors, interns, or trainees, has set regulations that define the acceptable length of time participants can spend in the U. Here Sep 10, 2025 · The J-1 Visa is a U. gov/visa/fees/fees_3272.