WORK and Travel USA

To work in the U.S., you need at least a basic conversational level of English. Your knowledge should be enough to get by during your first days. A conversational level (about 5–6 out of 10) is sufficient. You’ll need English skills when searching for a job in the U.S. and certainly while working there.

The first step to joining the Work and Travel USA program is an interview at our center. We understand your nerves, so we’ll do our best to create a relaxed atmosphere. It’s just a simple conversation on general topics like where you study, how you spend your free time, and why you want to visit the U.S. Nothing too  complicated.

Within a week after the interview at IEC, you’ll need to pay an initial fee of $300 + $35 (SEVIS fee). The second part of the program cost is due within a week after your sponsor confirms your job offer, usually between February and April.

According to the participation agreement, it must be submitted three months before your intended travel date, around March 1.

Most students work in resort towns, where the first floors of buildings are filled with stores, restaurants, and hotels. Simply walk along the streets and look for “Help Wanted” signs. Even if you don’t see one, it’s worth asking—resort towns become busy tourist hubs in the season.

Yes, this option is available and costs only about $300 more when choosing the Plus or Full Service packages.

Of course! Just mention your friend’s name in the application form.

The U.S. minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. Participants are advised to bring at least $1,000 upon arrival to cover travel and initial living expenses.

Simply call us or fill out the form on our website. A program coordinator will explain the steps and schedule an interview to assess your English level.

It’s a critical document that allows you to apply for a J-1 visa. While it’s just a simple A4 form, only a limited number of authorized program sponsors can issue it.

A J-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa for individuals approved to participate in exchange visitor programs in the United States. It’s designed for students, interns, researchers, teachers, and others taking part in educational or cultural exchanges. This visa allows you to legally work in the U.S. during your summer break.

Participants must have a valid international passport by February 1 of the program year. It should remain valid until at least October 15 of that year. Note: regular (non-biometric) passports are accepted by the U.S. Embassy.

The further from the city center, the cheaper. In resort towns, student housing costs around $60–90 per person per week. You’d pay about the same sharing a small apartment on the outskirts of a large city with a friend.

Quite often, housing is already prepared for you by your summer employer – you will know what to expect before you even come to the States. But if you’re looking for a different place, take advantage of the power of the web – check things out in advance! If you can’t find anything immediately, check into a budget motel for the first week—it’s cheaper this way. It’s even better if you’re with a friend. The next day, look for “For Rent” signs or visit real estate agencies. However, these tend to be expensive, so it’s better to share housing with other students and pay weekly.

A large majority of participants arrive at JFK Airport in New York, but no matter where your job is, your employer will provide instructions in advance on where to go and how to reach them. You can also take advantage of Google or Apple Maps to plan your travel, as well as check what public transportation can offer, on city websites or sites like www.greyhound.com or www.amtrak.com. Prepare in advance, and have the travel plan saved so you can refer to it. After clearing immigration and collecting your luggage, go at your own pace, and don’t be afraid to ask for directions if you get disoriented!

Only in your bank account! Keeping cash at home can make you a target for theft.

Order or set up a U.S. SIM card or an eSIM before you travel, to always have connection when you need it. Many places also offer free Wi-Fi.

Yes, students are covered by medical insurance with a $100,000 limit, ensuring they won’t face high medical bills.

Work hard, avoid sugary drinks, bike to work, and occasionally cook balanced meals at home. An active routine is very good – but make sure to balance it with some well-earned rest.

A mobile number is handy for job and housing searches. IEC offers U.S. SIM cards for $15.