What is Work and Travel?
Summer Work Travel is part of the U.S. Department of State’s BridgeUSA exchange programme. It allows eligible full-time students at post-secondary institutions outside the United States to work temporarily during their summer break and experience American culture. It is not a permanent employment or immigration programme.
Official eligibility includes enough English to interact successfully and at least one completed semester of post-secondary study. Check job conditions with a designated programme sponsor. A sponsor is an organization approved by the U.S. Department of State; speaking to an intermediary does not replace checking the sponsor.
What should you ask before paying?
- Who is the sponsor? Check its name in the official sponsor directory.
- What are the job conditions? Request the role, location, expected hours and pay in writing.
- What is the full cost? Separate programme, visa, travel, insurance and initial living expenses.
- Who helps if something goes wrong? Learn how to contact the sponsor and what support it provides.
Be careful with promises of a guaranteed visa or income. Actual costs and working conditions can vary greatly.
What happens during the visa process?
The sponsor issues Form DS-2019 to an eligible participant. A J-1 visa application also involves Form DS-160 and other documents required by the consulate. The U.S. Department of State says that a visa is not guaranteed. Check current dates, fees and document requirements on official pages when you apply.
Official sources: BridgeUSA Summer Work Travel and J-1 exchange visitor visa guidance.
This article provides general information. We do not currently advertise Work and Travel enrolment services on this website.
How should you compare job offers?
Do not compare offers by hourly pay alone. Look at expected hours, placement costs, housing, transport to work and the money you need for the first weeks. If a verbal promise differs from written conditions, clarify it before paying.
Match the sponsor’s name and job location against your documents. The programme is a cultural exchange, so the workplace and participant support matter alongside pay. Rules can change; use current official information before making a final decision.