J1 Student Work Travel - FAQs

What are the eligibility requirements?

Participants must be:

·         An Australian or New Zealand citizen;

·         Aged 18 years or older;

·         A full time student enrolled at an Australian or New Zealand university or TAFE college (minimum Diploma level course of two years duration) and completed the first year of study; or

·         Have graduated from the above university or college within the past 12 months;

·         Not be accompanied by any dependents (for example, partner or children);

·         Purchased approved Health Insurance for 12 months;

·         Demonstrated sufficient financial resources to support yourself (Minimum US $1,500).

What is the difference between the J-1 Student Work Travel and Summer Work Travel programs?

What is the first step in the application process?

As with all exchange visitor visas, you must obtain sponsorship from an exchange visitor program approved by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. 

The US Department of State authorized the American Australian Association as an Exchange Visitor Program sponsor in October of 2002. This permits our organization to issue a “Certificate of Eligibility” (Form DS-2019) to eligible applicants, allowing them to work in the United States under a J-1 Visa.

Why do I need a sponsor?

Sponsorship is a standard US visa requirement for exchange visitor applications. Participants must secure sponsorship from an approved exchange organization.

Organizations that are eligible to sponsor foreign nationals for a J-1 Visa can set up “Exchange Visitor Programs.” These organizations are designated and overseen by the U.S. Department of State.  Each organization is bound by federal regulations, which govern the J-1 Visa, and the terms of the specific designation given to them by the US State Department.

The American Australian Association is an approved sponsor for Student Work and Travel.

How do I apply?

·         Complete the American Australian Association application form and submit the US $840 application and membership fee with the requisite supporting documents.  

·         Mail the completed and signed application form with payment and supporting documents to:

J-1 Exchange Program

American Australian Association

50 Broadway, Suite 2003

New York NY 10004

What supporting documents do I need?

·         Two character reference letters

Certified copies of each of the following:

·         Australian or New Zealand passport – biographic page and all stamped passport pages;

·         Proof of tertiary enrollment, including completion of first year and ongoing study or graduation certificate

·         Proof of medical insurance * coverage and purchase receipt

·         Evidence of sufficient financial funds (at least US $1,500) to cover start up costs

What type of visa will I receive?

·         J-1 visa

What is the J1 visa?

The J-1 Visa allows foreign nationals to visit the United States temporarily to work as an Exchange Visitor.  It was developed to expose individuals in a variety of fields from around the world to the culture and institutions of the US and to foster better understanding of the US perspective on a variety of issues.

When can I go?

You can leave at any time of the year.

How much does it cost?

The Association charges an $800 administration and $40 student membership fee. 

In addition to this, participants should note the US Government charges three separate fees pertaining to the J-1 visa. These fees are listed in US dollar amounts and will be charged at the applicable exchange rate:  $131 visa application fee, $105 visa issuance (reciprocity fee) and $35 SEVIS fee. It is mandatory that you obtain an adequate level of medical coverage for the duration of their visit.

How do I pay?

Payment is by international money order, wire transfer, US drawn cheque or by major credit card (Visa, Mastercard, AMEX). Should you pay by credit card an additional 2.5% bank processing fee will be added to your payment.

What is the minimum level of medical coverage needed?

Medical insurance coverage must include, at a minimum:

·         medical benefits of at least US $50,000 per accident or illness;

·         repatriation of remains amount of US $7,500;

·         expenses associated with medical evacuation from the US in the amount of US $10,000; and

Do I need to find a job before I leave?

No. You have 10 days from the date of your arrival in the US to secure a job. You can work in any position which is not restricted.

What are the Student Work Travel work restrictions?

Typically most participants work in non-skilled service positions at resorts, hotels, restaurants and bars. Participants may accept professional level positions, however may not accept work in any of the following areas:

·         Pilots or crew members on ships or planes;

·         Medical or patient care (eg, dentists, doctors, vets, nurses, therapists etc)

·         Domestic employees in US households (eg, nanny, chauffeur, gardener etc)

·         Sales jobs involving purchasing sales inventory to resell (eg, door to door sales)

·         Adult entertainment;

·         Teachers or educational instructors

·         Camp counselors.

What if I don’t find a job in the first 10 days after my arrival?

Participants are required to contact the AAA and report their current address and employment status within 10 days of their arrival. If you have not secured a position, the AAA must be informed.

Can I work for more than one employer?

Yes

Do I have to work full time?

No

Can I study while in the US?

No

Can I travel around the US after my working authorization has expired?

After your DS-2019 form has expired, you have 30-days following the expiration date to travel within the US. You may not work during this 30-day grace period.

Can I leave the US and re-enter on a J-1 visa?

It is expected that you remain in the US for the full duration of your 12 month program to maximize your exchange experience. Participants are advised to contact the Program’s Responsible Officer in the event of an emergency.

What if I lose my DS-2019 form?

You must have a DS-2019 form for your visa to be valid. If you lose your DS-2019 form, you must notify the AAA in writing immediately. We will re-issue a new DS-2019 form for a fee of US $50.

Can I repeat the program?

No, applicants are only permitted to participate in the Student Work Travel visa once.

Do I need a US social security number?

Yes. After arrival in the United States, participants should present themselves at the nearest Social Security Office with their passport and Form DS-2019. In order to find a Social Security Office closest to you, please refer to the Social Security on-line Office Locator http://s3abaca.ssa.gov/pro/fol/fol-hom.html

Do I have to pay US taxes?

Yes. Working participants must pay US federal and state taxes. State income taxes vary (and some states do not have an income tax), but the federal income tax is indexed by the level of your wage. You should expect to pay about 25 percent of your gross salary in federal income taxes. Federal and state income taxes will automatically be deducted from your paycheck by your employer.