Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work outside of my training/internship?
No. The U.S. State Department regulations prohibit all J-1 trainee and Interns accepting employment in the U.S. outside your training or internship assignment. It is very important that you evaluate your program expenses before applying for the program, as you will be required to show proof of funds needed to sustain your living expenses while in the U.S. Any unauthorized employment will subject you to immediate termination from the J-1 visa program and you may also face deportation and/or other penalties from the U.S. government.
What are my responsibilities as a CETUSA Trainee/Intern Program participant?
- Secure a U.S. host company training or internship offer
- Carefully read the CETUSA Trainee/Internship Program’s Participant Handbook, and clarify any questions with your agent before proceeding to fill out your application
- Complete and submit a CETUSA program application via your local agent
- Pay required program fees
- Work with your agent to schedule the J-1 visa interview appointment at your home-country U.S. Embassy or Consulate, schedule and pay for your round-trip international transportation, and communicate your arrival in the U.S.
- Participate in a CETUSA pre-departure orientation
- Complete mid-course and final program evaluations in a timely manner
What is expected of me when I'm working with the U.S. host company?
- Be enthusiastic and have a positive attitude. Host companies are looking for flexible and motivated trainees or interns who are perceptive to the ever-evolving business environment.
- Be on time. It is important that you get to your training location on time; otherwise your host company will note that you are not responsible.
- Dress appropriately. It is important that you have a professional appearance. Ask about your company’s dress code when you are not sure.
- Be prepared to comply with company policies. Although you are not a full-time staff member under these programs’ regulations, you may be subject to the same pre-employment clearance procedures as regular employees. This may include, but not limited to a drug test, background and reference check.
- Be a “team player.” U.S. host companies like trainees and interns who are willing to help and support supervisors and share the host company’s business goals.
- Share your international perspective. You must keep in mind that a U.S. host company participating in the J-1 Trainee/Internship Program has expressed interest in learning about your culture and about your industry practices in your home country.
- Strictly follow the J-1 Trainee/Intern Program Placement Plan (T/IPP Form DS-7002). Your host company will expect you to comply with the Placement Plan composed, which has been individually designed to suit your career advancement.
- Complete mid-course and final program evaluations in a timely manner.
- Abide by the CETUSA program rules and conditions to which you agreed in the application.
What makes CETUSA a quality program sponsor?
CETUSA is a member of the CET Management Group which since 1995 has helped tens of thousands of students, families, young professionals, and employers benefit from the integration of different cultures. CETUSA is a CSIET compliant organization, which ensures the high integrity of our program sponsorship and program administration.
CETUSA helps Trainee/Internship Program participants work with an overseas agent to complete the application process, and also contacts the U.S. Host Company to help develop a dynamic training plan that includes continuous on-the-job training, supervision, evaluations, and insight into American industry practices, work ethics and other cultural aspects of American daily life.
What type of insurance coverage is offered?
CETUSA provides Accident and Sickness Insurance coverage for all program participants for the duration of the program. Insurance costs are included in the required program fees.
How long may my program be in the U.S.?
Intern participants may stay a maximum of 12 months in the U.S. You may participate in an unlimited number of J-1 visa internships as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. Trainee participants may stay in the U.S. a maximum of 18 months and must remain outside the U.S. for at least 2 years before being eligible for another training program.
May I switch host companies?
In rare circumstances CETUSA will consider allowing a change of participant’s host company. This may take place if the principal host organization is no longer capable of following the bona fide training or internship placement plan or the host company agreement. The host company switch is permitted only when the transfer application is filed and approved by CETUSA program staff.
Am I subject to U.S. income tax and do I need to file a return?
Trainees or interns who earn income from a U.S. host company are responsible for paying U.S. federal, state, and local (if applicable) income tax. You are not required to pay Social Security or Medicare taxes. This tax return form is due on April 15 following the year of your training opportunity. If you did not earn income during your training/internship, you must still file a tax return due June 15, but you will not owe any tax money.
Member of the CET Management Group