Work and Travel Program for Participants

Before You Leave

Pre- Departure Orientation and Online Pre-Departure Questionnaire

Don’t forget to attend the Pre-Departure Orientation that will be conducted in your home country. The Orientation covers all aspects of the Work and Travel Program, cultural issues, housing and travel advice, expectations as well as other pertinent information regarding the program. Your local agent will provide you with the date and the place of the Orientation.

The Online Pre-Departure Questionnaire is an online tool that lets us ensure that you understand the goals of the program and your obligations as a J-1 Visa Program participant.

Both the Pre-Departure Orientation and the Online Questionnaire are mandatory.

Insurance

CETUSA provides you with International Medical and Accident Insurance for the period stated in your Form DS-2019. If you are planning to be in the U.S. after the period, (so called grace period that allows you to stay in the US no longer than 30 days after the date stated on your Form DS-2019), CETUSA recommends that you get an additional insurance for this period.

Remember: Always carry your Medical Insurance ID card!

Documents

Documents you need during your travel:

  • Valid Passport with J-1 Visa
  • Form DS-2019
  • Job Offer
  • Participant Handbook
  • Medical Insurance Policy Card
  • Your US residence address

Advice: For security reasons make two copies of your passport, Form DS-2019 and J-1 Visa. Take one with you and leave one at home. Scan a copy and email it to yourself.

Housing

Upon your arrival, our regional managers will assist you with your accommodation. They will present you a few possible places to rent.

Important: Please be aware that most housing requires a security deposit plus first month’s rent to be paid prior to move-in. This is a considerable cost that you must be prepared for.

Money

As a program participant, you should have sufficient funds in order to support yourself upon arrival in the U.S. (minimum $750)

Packing Advice

We suggest you research the area you are traveling to in order to become acquainted with the seasons and weather conditions. You can also seek advice from your future supervisor or the CETUSA regional manager about appropriate attire in your work place. If a uniform or formal attire is required at your host company’s site, this is good to know in advance, so that you bring some of your fa

 
CETUSA is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping Americans and those from other cultures to gain a better understanding of one another.
...reaching out to encourage a lifelong journey of global peace and understanding