travel to america for work

Welcome to 'The Land of Opportunity'.

America Overview

Travel level, visa required, cost of living.

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Work Abroad in the USA

The United States has long been the original work and travel destination. Whether  summer camp  staff, expats, or summer work and travel professionals, millions have had their own adventures in the U.S. for decades, with many more millions preparing to do the same in the coming years.

White jaw-dropping landscapes such as the Rocky Mountains, iconic destinations such as New York City, and adventure aplenty across all 50 states of the U.S., there's a wealth of unforgettable opportunities in city and rural locations.

Whether you work a  summer season  or you decide to take a full year (or more) there, working abroad in the USA allows you to live the 'American Dream', participate in cultural exchange, and forge lifelong connections.

What do I need to work abroad in the USA?

The J1 visa is a work permit that allows you to work and participate on an approved cultural exchange program in the US, with a much simpler application process compared to applying for permanent residency. It covers the duration of your chosen program, as well as 30 days free travel after.

There are numerous benefits to securing a J1 Visa! These include the shorter application process in comparison to other visas as well as the 30 day free travel that is included with it.

Eligibility for the J1 is determined for various factors. This includes things such as the applicants ability to speak English, which country they are applying from the insurance and the insurance they have among other things.

Learn more about the U.S.

If you want to work abroad in the USA, you'll find a host of opportunities and unforgettable experiences come hand in hand. This vast country is home to a diverse range of backgrounds, cultures, and environments, meaning each interesting area is as different and as vibrant as the next. Coupled with the fact this huge country has 50 states and covers multiple time zones, you start to realise how truly massive it is. If you're looking for your new American home and to find jobs abroad in America, today's the day to delve deeper into where's perfect for you.

• Population: 335.9m
• Number of States : 50
• Capital: Washington, D.C.
• Currency: U.S. Dollar
• Area: 9.834m km2
• Yearly Tourists: 60 million (approx)

Major Cities

• Washington D.C. (Capital)
• New York City. New York
• Los Angeles, California
• Chicago, Illinois
• Boston, Massachusetts
• San Francisco, California
• Houston, Texas
• Phoenix, Arizona
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

As 'The Land of Opportunity', people have flocked to the United States for centuries. It's become a melting pot of nationalities, cultures, and languages, especially in major cities. Italian, Chinese, Irish and many other cultures influence areas, boasting proud and thriving communities. You'll also find towns and suburbs throughout this vast country which display quintessential American values: a welcoming and warm nature, a kind and helpful, close-knit feel, and a proud sense of national identity from families who have been in the area for generations.

America is sport crazy. Yes, you have the huge, top-level sports, with the likes of the NFL in American football, the NBA in basketball, and the MLB in baseball, all representing the highest level of American sports. Yet you'll also find a passionate following of these sports beneath the elite level, with college sports teams often having crowds of 60,000 plus, showing this country's incredible thirst for sport. For those wanting to be involved in sports whilst on a placement, America is definitely one of the leading countries to visit.

From country music to the blues, America has a firm imprint on world music, which continues to influence popular culture to this day. It is 'the' place to be if you want to have a seminal impact on world music, but it's also a hotbed of talent. For every Taylor Swift or Eminem, there are countless up-and-coming stars influenced by the U.S.'s musical past, with thriving music scenes anywhere from New Orleans up to New York. Music is unique to every individual, and you're sure to find what works for you in the USA.

Environment

The United States is an incredibly vast and expansive landscape, being home to the equivalent of multiple countries in one. It is home to piercing mountain ranges such as the Rocky Mountains or the Appalachian Mountains and great river systems such as the Mississippi or Missouri Rivers. For those who love the great outdoors, there are very few countries like it.

New York Highlights

New York can be a pricey place, but if you do it correctly, you can see all the best spots at a fraction of the price. One such thing you absolutely have to see is the Statue of Liberty, which can cost over $30 to go to the actual island. If you're trying to save the pennies, then consider getting the Staten island ferry instead. On this, it's free, and it sails right past the Statue of Liberty, giving great views to see it and for pictures. Just make sure you're on the right hand side of the ferry on the way out, as everyone will flock there when they realise that's the side it's on!

Times Square is a place that engages all the senses and one which needs to be seen to be believed.

It definitely solidifies New York City as the  'city that never sleeps' . Large neon signs drape every skyscraper and corner of the area, meaning your eyes are drawn upwards more than just in front of you.

When you do get a moment to look down, you'll find an eclectic mix of street performers, tour operators, and food vendors lining its bustling streets, all among the thousands of visitors who flock to experience it.

If you're coming to New York City, you won't be able to leave until you see Times Square.

Central Park is the green jewel in the middle of New York's crown.

Nestled in the middle of Manhattan's sprawling concrete jungle is this green paradise, one which has deservedly been immortalised through major film and TV shows for nearly a century.

While we typically associate New York City with bright lights and towering skyscrapers, Central Park disrupts this association with its picturesque greenery, beautiful lakes, and stunning fountains. In a city of millions, it almost feels surreal to find such a large green area homed directly in the middle, yet it's there and waiting for you to explore each corner.

From museums and galleries to a famous zoo, Central Park has plenty to do.

Featured Travel Opportunities

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The Three Ways Non-U.S. Citizens Can Legally Live and Work in the United States

It would be a slight understatement to say that immigration is a hot topic in the United States these days. And yet, with a repeating election cycle, you can expect the topic—and the political rhetoric surrounding it—to somehow get even hotter.

Listen to this article:   Click here to play this audio clip

But like most legal concepts at the center of a national conversation, immigration is often oversimplified by politicians, pundits and the media. When someone from these groups wants to provide a catchy soundbite or write an irresistible headline, they often use the amorphous yet all-encompassing terms “immigration” or “citizenship” as a shortcut to describe more nuanced aspects of the U.S. immigration system.

To clear up any confusion about that system, we thought it was worthwhile to break down—briefly and objectively—the three main ways non-U.S. citizens can legally come to and stay in the United States: citizenship, lawful permanent residency and visas.

Citizenship

U.S. citizenship provides an individual with the most rights and benefits of any legal immigration option. A person can become a U.S. citizen at birth or after .

In order to become a citizen at birth, a person must have been born in the U.S. or one of its territories and be subject to U.S. jurisdiction, or be born to at least one parent who was a U.S. citizen at the time of the person’s birth.

After birth, a person can become a U.S. citizen in two ways. The first is through “derived” or “acquired” citizenship through his or her parents . This method is only for children under 18 years of age and often comes about when a non-U.S. citizen is adopted at an early age by parents who are U.S. citizens.

The other way for a person to become a U.S. citizen after birth is through naturalization , which typically takes about ten months .

There are a number of eligibility requirements that an individual must meet in order to apply for naturalization. This includes already having the status of a permanent resident (which we discuss below) for at least five years before applying, or three years if applying for naturalization as the spouse of a U.S. citizen . This also includes demonstrating proficiency with the English language and knowledge of U.S. history and government and taking an oath of allegiance to the U.S. Constitution.

Lawful Permanent Residents

Non-U.S. citizens can permanently live and work in the U.S. by applying to be a lawful permanent resident and obtaining a Green Card. Lawful permanent residents are entitled to limited rights and benefits as compared to U.S. citizens.

There are broad categories of non-U.S. citizens who are eligible to apply for a Green Card, including:

• Relatives of S citizens and lawful permanent residents;
• People “ with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics,” “ members of the professions holding advanced degrees or who have exceptional ability,” or “ skilled workers, professionals, or other workers ”;
• Individuals who “have invested or are actively in the process of investing at least $1 million in a new commercial enterprise in the U.S. which will create full-time positions for at least 10 qualifying employees”;
• People who were granted asylum status or admitted as a refugee at least one year before applying; and
• Individuals who were selected for a diversity visa (which we discuss below).

Different Green Cards have their own specific procedures to follow. However, there are some processes and procedures that apply generally. Once an application for a Green Card has been filed, it may take anywhere from a few months to about a year for the application to be granted.

The third primary way for non-U.S. citizens to lawfully live or work in the U.S. is through a visa. There are two kinds of U.S. visas: non-immigrant and immigrant .

Non-immigrant visas are for travel to the U.S. on a temporary basis. These visas cover people as varied as au pairs (visa category “J”); foreign nationals with “extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business or athletics” (category “O”); performing athletes, artists or entertainers (category “P”); and tourism, vacation or pleasure visitors (category “B-2”). While the amount of time a visa holder can legally stay in the U.S. will vary based on the type of visa, visa holders can apply to extend their stays online.

However, through the U.S. Visa Waiver Program , citizens of 38 countries including Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom need not obtain visas if they are visiting the U.S. for 90 days or less when traveling for business or pleasure. Generally speaking, citizens of Canada and Bermuda also do not need to obtain non-immigrant visas when traveling to the U.S.

Immigrant visas on the other hand, are the first step most non-U.S. citizens must take if they want to eventually live permanently in the United States. Most immigrants obtain visas through family-based or employment-based options.

For family-based visas, each year the U.S. makes 226,000 visas available for family-sponsored applicants. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents may file immigrant visa petitions for certain family members such as spouses and children. But unlike U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents cannot file visa petitions for a parent or a sibling.

As for employment-based options, each year the U.S. makes approximately 140,000 visas available to qualified applicants. Included in this category are the well-known H1-B visas for “specialty occupations in fields requiring highly specialized knowledge” which we discussed in a previous article .

The U.S. also makes 55,000 diversity visas available annually to randomly selected individuals who are from countries with low rates of immigration to the U.S.

Because the U.S. restricts the total amount of family-sponsored and employment-based immigration visas from most countries to seven percent of the worldwide total , some applicants may have to wait years or even decades before their visa applications can be filed, evaluated and granted.

Once a non-U.S. citizen has received an immigrant visa, he or she can apply for a Green Card. But, again, because demand often outpaces supply, some visa holders may have to wait years or decades before they can apply for and receive a Green Card.

Setting the record straight

Punditry makes for interesting television and immigration talk makes for powerful political soundbites. None of this, however, changes the fact that the United States has an established legal framework in place for foreign individuals who wish to live in the country. Separating the law and nuance from the hype is critical to understanding immigration in our country.

 Of course, it’s not a perfect system but it’s also much less fluid than many would have you believe.  

Want to read more? Check out  these other articles related to immigration . 

• Labor & Employment
• Immigration Law

Raise your uni holiday game. If you’re 18-30 and a full-time student, have the ultimate summer working and travelling in the USA. Earn money, make friends, discover America.

What’s the Work USA J-1 summer program?

If you’re a full-time student, then the J-1 visa allows you to work anywhere in the USA for up to four months over your summer holidays – plus travel around America for 30 days afterwards. On our Work USA program, we’ll help match you with a summer job before you go, provide the sponsorship you need to apply for your J-1 visa, and support you throughout the whole process.

Ordinary jobs in extraordinary locations: you’ll earn a salary, experience America like a local, and have the summer of a lifetime. (Until next year, when you go back and do it again. You can do Work USA every summer you’re studying, up to three times in total!).

So, what did you do over the holidays?

Not much. Worked in a hotel on Catalina Island in California, went hiking in the Hollywood Hills and surfing in the O.C. at weekends, road tripped along Route 66 at the end of the summer with my new work mates. Just your average summer with Work USA, then. Book now for summer 2023.

Earn over USD $8,000* next summer

Make your summer work for you. Depending on the job and location, you can earn over USD $8,000 including tips working in America over the summer. Plus, you’ll add international job experience to your CV and show future employers you have the confidence to live and work abroad.

The need to know before you go

Type of work

Our Work USA program is designed to do seasonal work, usually in hospitality or tourism. Think those iconic all-American summer jobs – working in hotels, country clubs and restaurants: working as a lifeguard, server, bartender, spa attendant or groundskeeper.  It might not be your dream career, but you’ll be working in your dream location. Read on.

Where you'll work

Our employers need staff for a reason – they’re located in America’s most popular summer spots. Think the whale-filled waters of Cape Cod, the golden beaches of California, and the mountain trails of North Carolina. Working alongside students from all over the world, you’ll have more fun in the sun than you can handle – exploring new places with new friends.

Who can apply

All passport holders can apply, but you must be 18-30 and a current degree level student registered at a UK, German, Austrian or Swiss university. Your course must be a minimum of two years for undergrads, and one year for postgrads. You can do our Work USA program between academic years, or in the summer immediately after you graduate.

How long for

The J-1 visa allows you to work in a pre-arranged job for up to four months, and you can enter the USA to start work from the 1 st June. The J-1 visa is a cultural exchange visa and is designed for international students to experience everything America has to offer, which is why you’re given a 30-day grace period after your job to travel around the States.

BUNAC presents Ordinary jobs in extraordinary locations

18-30 and a student? America needs you. Official sponsors of the all-American summer since 1962: we provide the sponsorship, job support and visa assistance you need to spend your summer Stateside.

“If you’re thinking about doing Work America, stop thinking and do it! It's life-changing. It has given me the confidence for my future and I have memories to last a lifetime. You’re only young once and we only live once. Make the most of it, you will not regret it.”

“I was hesitant to take part in this program at first – I was young and slightly scared of the world. The thought of rewinding two years and making the decision not to do Work America and missing out on this chance makes me feel sick! I’d say jump in and just enjoy it.”

“I would say that this is the best thing you could do. Travelling and exploring a new culture comes with a lot of benefits. You learn a lot from the experience and also from the people you meet – when you go back to your country you take home with you the most wonderful memories.”

Book with travellers. Expert job hunters, visa translators and parent whisperers – all our team have worked or volunteered abroad.

From the Blog

Three summers, Cape Cod and Me

Working as a waitress in New York with BUNAC

Working as a lifeguard in the USA with BUNAC

Travel with confidence.

Total peace of mind with our COVID Booking Guarantee *

Book now pay later with our low deposit scheme

24/7 emergency help and support at home and abroad

60+ years of work, learn and intern abroad expertise

Book now for Work USA 2024 with a deposit

*All figures are based on the available jobs, advertised salary and accommodation costs for our Work USA 2024 program. This example is based on working 40 hours a week over the 12-week summer period. To see how this figure is calculated and what you can earn in other roles, please visit our c ost and inclusions page. BUNAC is not liable for any differences in these salaries, directly or indirectly related to your performance. This should be used as a guide only.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in the US set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering the US.

Passport validity requirements

To enter the US, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.

If you’re travelling through another country on your way to or from the US, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport. 

Dual nationals  

US law requires US citizens to enter and exit the US using a US passport. Contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK for more information.

Visa requirements

To enter or transit through the US, you must have either an  Electronic System for Travel Authorisation ( ESTA ) visa waiver  or a visa .

The US State Department has more information on visas .

Applying for an ESTA visa waiver 

Apply for an ESTA visa waiver through US Customs and Border Protection. You can also apply using the ESTA Mobile app on android or on iOS .

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you have:

• been arrested (even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction)
• a criminal record
• been refused admission into, or have been deported from the US
• previously overstayed under an ESTA visa waiver

You cannot normally apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you were in the following countries on or after March 2011: 

• North Korea

You cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you travelled to or were in Cuba on or after 12 January 2021. 

If you are not eligible for an ESTA , you must instead apply for a US visa.

Applying for a visa

The US Embassy in London has information on how to apply for a visa .

US visa appointments

Visa appointments at the US Embassy in London are limited. Plan your application as far ahead as possible before travel. If you need to travel urgently, you can request an expedited interview through the US Embassy’s appointment service provider.

The US Embassy has more information on visa appointments .

Children and young people

Anyone aged 17 and under must:

• have a valid visa or ESTA visa waiver on arrival
• be able to provide evidence about the purpose, location and length of their visit if asked by immigration officials
• have written consent from one or both parents if travelling alone, with only one parent, or with someone who is not a parent or legal guardian

The US authorities can stop you entering the country if they have safeguarding concerns about a child. If this happens, the US authorities will take the child into their care, and their return from the US could take months. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot speed up the return of British nationals aged 17 and under from the US.

The US government has information about children travelling to the US . If you have questions, contact the US Embassy in the UK .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s US guide .

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of the US . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Global Entry programme

The US Customs and Border Protection programme Global Entry allows pre-approved travellers through border control faster at some US airports. If you’re a British citizen, you can  register to get a UK background check . If you pass the background checks, you’ll be invited to apply for Global Entry.

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The Perfect J1 in America – USA Summer Jobs

Usa summer jobs give you the flexibility to work where you dream to work., american work visa included. your job in america vetted. explore more., your j1 america. the ultimate summer experience.

Working a J1 in America is an unforgettable adventure. Every year thousands and thousands of Irish work in America for the summer on a J1, and it’s your turn this summer!

We offer the best J1 summer jobs package, which puts you in total control.

Already we’ve helped over 30,000 Irish travel to the USA and we’ve helped over 90,000 people in total travel to America.

So Work in America with USA Summer Jobs. There’s a perfect summer job just for you!

USA Summer Jobs is the best and easiest service available to students looking for a J1.  We offer you the ease of working where you want.

Choose your ideal American J1 location. Work in places like New York, LA, Miami, Jersey Shore. You can find your dream summer location.

Jobs are available in any US State, for the summer of 2024, 2025 and onwards.

You’ll have an incredible summer in America working and traveling with our incredible cultural exchange program. If you want to be next, apply for USA Summer Jobs Today !

For the best priced package for a J1 THIS summer, join USA Summer Jobs now .   Guaranteed the best customer service guaranteed.  Just see our Reviews compared to other agencies!   And if you’re based near Maynooth, Co. Kildare drop in and say hi, we’d be happy to answer any questions you have about your J1.

We’ve a cheat sheet of jobs and housing to help you on your way!  Don’t just take our word for it. find out for yourself..

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You are here: Home / Visa Types / Work Visa

Common Nonimmigrant Visas

• Business/Tourist Visa
• Student Visa
• Exchange Visitor Visa
• Transit/Ship Crew Visa
• Religious Worker Visa
• Domestic Employee Visa
• Journalist and Media Visa
• Treaty Investors and Traders
• CNMI-Saipan Visa
• A List of NIV Types

On this page:

Visa Descriptions and Qualifications

When to apply, application items, how to apply, supporting documents, rights and protections for temporary workers in the united states, more information.

If you want to work in the U.S. temporarily as a nonimmigrant, under U.S. immigration law, you need a specific visa based on the type of work you will be doing. Most temporary worker categories require that your prospective employer or agent file a petition, which must be approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in the United States before you can apply for a work visa.

All applicants for H, L, O, P and Q visas must have a petition approved on their behalf by USCIS. The petition, Form I-129 , must be approved before you can apply for a work visa at the Embassy. When your petition is approved, your employer or agent will receive a Notice of Action, Form I-797, which serves as your petition's approval notification. The consular officer will verify your petition approval through the Department of State's Petition Information Management Service (PIMS) during your interview.

You must bring your I-129 petition receipt number to your interview at the Embassy in order to verify your petition's approval. Please note that approval of a petition does not guarantee issuance of a visa if you are found to be ineligible for a visa under U.S. immigration law.

H-1B (specialty occupation) An H-1B visa is required if you are coming to the United States to perform services in a pre-arranged professional job. To qualify, you must hold a bachelor's or higher degree (or an equivalent degree) in the specific specialty for which you seek employment. USCIS will determine whether your employment constitutes a specialty occupation and whether you are qualified to perform the services. Your employer is required file a labor condition application with the Department of Labor concerning the terms and conditions of its contract of employment with you.

H-1B1 Treaty-based Temporary Work Visas Free trade agreements signed with Chile and Singapore permit qualified Chilean and Singaporean citizens to temporarily work in the United States in certain circumstances. Only Chilean and Singaporean citizens are eligible as principal applicants , although their spouses and children may be nationals of other countries.

Applicants for H-1B1 visas should already have a job offer from an employer in their chosen work area in the United States, but the employer does not have to file Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, and the applicant does not need to obtain a Notice of Approval, Form I-797 form before submitting the visa application. However, the petitioner does need to file an Application for Foreign Labor Certification with the Department of Labor prior to applying for the visa.  For more information on the H-1B1 visa, please visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/employment.html

H-2A (seasonal agricultural workers)

An H-2A visa allows U.S. employers to bring foreign nationals to the United States to fill temporary agricultural jobs for which U.S. workers are not available. An H-2A nonimmigrant classification applies to you if you seek to perform agricultural labor or services of a temporary or seasonal nature in the United States on a temporary basis. A U.S. employer (or an association of U.S. agricultural producers named as a joint employer) must file a Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, on your behalf.

H-2B visa (skilled and unskilled workers) This visa is required if you are coming to the United States to perform a job which is temporary or seasonal in nature and for which there is a shortage of U.S. workers. Your employer is required to obtain a Department of Labor certification confirming that there are no qualified U.S. workers eligible for the type of employment on which your petition is based.

H-3 (trainee) An H-3 visa is required if you are coming to the United States to receive training from an employer in any field of endeavor, other than graduate education or training, for a period of up to two years. You can be paid for your training and "hands-on" work is authorized. Training cannot be used to provide productive employment and cannot be available in your home country.

H-4 (dependents) If you are the principal holder of a valid H visa, your spouse or unmarried children (under age 21) may receive an H-4 visa to accompany you to the United States. However, your spouse/children are not permitted to work while in the United States.

L-1 (intra-company transferees) An L-1 visa is required if you are the employee of an international company which is temporarily transferring you to a parent branch, affiliate, or subsidiary of the same company in the United States. The international company may be either a U.S. or foreign organization. To qualify for an L-1 visa, you must be at the managerial or executive level, or have specialized knowledge and be destined to a position within the U.S. company at either of these levels, although not necessarily in the same position as held previously. In addition, you must have been employed outside the United States with the international company continuously for one year within the three years preceding your application for admission into the United States. You may only apply for an L-1 visa after your U.S. company or affiliate has received an approved petition from USCIS, either on a "blanket" or individual basis.

L-2 (dependents) If you are the principal holder of a valid L visa, your spouse or unmarried children (under age 21) may receive this derivative visa. Due to a recent change in the law, your spouse may seek employment authorization. Your spouse must enter the United States on his/her own L-2 visa and then submit a completed Form I-765 (obtainable from USCIS), along with an application fee. Your children are not authorized to work in the United States.

O Type O visas are issued to people with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business and athletics, or extraordinary achievement in motion picture and television production, and their essential support personnel.

P (artists, entertainers) Type P visas are issued to certain athletes, entertainers, artists and essential support personnel who are coming to perform in the United States.

Q A Q visa is required if you are traveling to the United States to participate in an international cultural exchange program for the purpose of providing practical training, employment, and the sharing of the history, culture, and traditions of your home country. You must have a petition filed on your behalf by the program sponsor and the petition must be approved by USCIS. Please note that when you fill out your DS-160, the system will ask you to provide a SEVIS number. You should enter zeros into that field, as you do are not required to have a SEVIS registration.

The U.S. Embassy/Consulate may process your H, L, O, P or Q visa application up to 90 days prior to the beginning of employment status as noted on your I-797. However, when making your travel plans, please note that due to Federal regulations, you can only use the visa to apply for entry to the United States starting ten days prior to the beginning of the approved status period noted on your I-797.

If you apply for an H, L, O, P or Q visa, you must submit the following:

• A Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) Form. Visit the DS-160 webpage for more information about the DS-160.
• A passport valid for travel to the United States with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States (unless country-specific agreements provide exemptions). If more than one person is included in your passport, each person desiring a visa must submit an application.
• One (1) 2"x2" (5cmx5cm) photograph. This page has information about the required photo format.
• A receipt showing payment of your non-refundable nonimmigrant visa application processing fee, paid in local currency. This page has more information about paying this fee. If a visa is issued, there may be an additional visa issuance reciprocity fee, depending on your nationality. The Department of State's website can help you find out if you must pay a visa issuance reciprocity fee and what the fee amount is.
• If you are an L-1 applicant on a blanket petition, you need to bring 2 copies of I-129s. Also, you may need to pay a fraud prevention and detection fee (more information about this fee is here ).
• A paper copy of approved and valid I-797.

In addition to these items, you must present an interview appointment letter confirming that you booked an appointment through this service . You may also bring whatever supporting documents you believe support the information provided to the consular officer. 

Step 1 Pay the visa application fee .

Step 2 Complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) form .

Step 3 Schedule your appointment on this web page . You will need three pieces of information in order to schedule your appointment:

• Your passport number
• Your MRV fee payment receipt number
• The ten (10) digit barcode number from your DS-160 confirmation page

Step 4 Visit the U.S. Embassy/Consulate on the date and time of your visa interview. You will need to bring a printed copy of your appointment letter, your DS-160 confirmation page, one recent photograph, your current passport and all old passports. Applications without all of these items will not be accepted.

Supporting documents are only one of many factors a consular officer will consider in your interview. Consular officers look at each application individually and consider professional, social, cultural and other factors during adjudication. Consular officers may look at your specific intentions, family situation, and your long-range plans and prospects within your country of residence. Each case is examined individually and is accorded every consideration under the law.

Caution: Do not present false documents. Fraud or misrepresentation can result in permanent visa ineligibility. If confidentiality is a concern, you should bring your documents to the Embassy in a sealed envelope. The Embassy will not make your information available to anyone and will respect the confidentiality of your information.

You should bring the following documents to your interview. Original documents are always preferred over photocopies and you must bring these documents with you to the interview. Do not fax, email or mail any supporting documents to the Embassy.

If you are a first time visa applicant, you may save time by bringing the following documents to your interview:

• Evidence that establishes your job qualifications, including any university diplomas.
• Original letters from current and previous employers detailing your position and projects you worked on and how long you worked with your employers.
• If you are currently working and holding an H-1B visa, please submit your pay slips for the current calendar year and your Federal tax returns (IRS Form 1040 and W-2) for all the years in which you have been employed in the United States. You should bring:
• pay slips from your current or most recent place of employment
• the names and current phone numbers of the personnel managers at your present and previous places of employment
• your resume or CV

Your dependents should bring all required documents for any nonimmigrant visa, plus:

• an original marriage (for your spouse) and/or birth certificate (for unmarried children under 21), as applicable
• a letter from your spouse's employer confirming his/her continued employment
• if your spouse is currently working in the United States on an H1-B visa, his/her pay slips for the current calendar year and federal tax returns (IRS Form 1040 and W-2s) for all the years in which he/she has been employed in the United States on the H-1B visa.

Learn and know about your rights and protections as a temporary worker in the United States. Read the English or Filipino version of the “Know Your Rights” Information Pamphlet.

For more information about H, L, O, P and Q visas, visit the Department of State's Temporary Workers web page .

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If a student does not get the visa we keep 0$!

The program price includes health insurance for the fifth month

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What is Work and Travel program?

“Summer Work and Travel USA” program is a cultural exchange program exclusively for students. The program has been approved and supported by the American government and it enables students to work in the USA during the summer break within a period of 4 months and after that, if they want, to use the fifth month for traveling. The aim of the program is to gain great experience, improve English language, meet the culture, customs and lifestyle, as well as, to get new friends.

What do we offer?

Summer Work and Travel Program is a complex program. Therefore, it is important that you have safety and all the program segments organized.

1. Safe job – interviews with the employers 2. Meeting the representative of the sponsor companies in the USA authorized by the State Department before departure to the USA. 3. Transport to the location of the employer or accommodation 4. Organization and help with getting SSN number in the USA which you cannot work without 5. Continuous support during your stay in the USA

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Visiting the USA on a Working Holiday in Canada (IEC): Complete Guide

A working holiday in Canada also provides an excellent opportunity to visit the neighbouring USA. This article details everything you need to know about visiting the USA while on a working holiday in Canada.

For citizens of participating  Visa Waiver Program countries , it is a pretty easy process overall.

There are, however, a few things you definitely should know if planning to visit the USA before heading to Canada to activate your IEC work permit. Read on for all the details and start planning your trip to the States now! 

Last updated October 2022.

If flying to the USA from Canada:

Visitors travelling to the USA by plane or boat must have prior authorisation to do so with a valid ESTA. 

• An ESTA is simply an electronic authorisation to board a plane or a boat to the USA, no more and no less
• Make sure you use the official government website to purchase your ESTA
• The ESTA application cost is $21 but there are plenty of third party agency websites out there who will be happy to charge double or triple that (or more!)
• It only takes around 15-20 minutes to fill out the application
• Don’t leave to the last minute – you should apply for an ESTA at least 72 hours before travel
• Most people will get a response  within 72 hours after submitting their application
• Your approved ESTA is valid for flights into the USA for two years
• On arrival in the USA, you will be assessed for entry with the Visa Waiver Program (more info below)

Being admitted into the USA: the Visa Waiver Program

On arrival at the US border, you need to be approved for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

• The VWP allows citizens of 38 countries to visit the USA for stays up to 90 days without a visa
• Eligibility for the Visa Waiver Program is determined when crossing the US border
• Fingerprints and a photograph will be taken
• Visitors arriving at a land border need to complete a green I94 form with details of their intended visit (more details below)

Visa Waiver Program eligibility

To be eligible for the VWP, visitors to the USA must:

• Intend to enter the USA for 90 days or less for business, pleasure or transit
• Have a valid passport (issued by a Visa Waiver Program country)
• Be a citizen of one of the Visa Waiver Program countries
• Have a return or onward ticket. (Onward) travel does not terminate in contiguous territory or adjacent islands unless the traveler is a resident of one of those areas

Source – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Contiguous territory or adjacent islands to the USA is considered Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean Islands and Bermuda.

Arriving into the USA By land

Here is the process of crossing a land border into the USA from Canada.

From 1st October 2022 , all visitors (with the exception of Canadians) must have a valid ESTA to cross the land border. Applying for the ESTA at least 72 hours in advance is recommended. The cost is $21USD – be sure to apply via the official government website .

After reaching the US border booths (sorry, there is no way to skip the queue!), you will be directed to a secondary building.

Here, you will fill out the green I94W card with your personal info and travel plans. This card will then be stapled into your passport.

• Have the address ready for the first place you intend to stay as this is required when filling out the I94W card
• A photo and fingerprints will be taken after you have completed the card
• Payment for the I94W is $6USD and can only be paid with credit card or US cash
• If you visit the USA with a valid I94W already in your passport, it is unlikely you will need to enter the secondary inspection building so entry will be faster

Important!  After leaving the USA for the last time, be sure to hand in your I94W (the green card) to Canadian officials. They are supposed to pass it to the US border guards who will record the date of your departure.

If you leave the I94W in your passport and visit the USA again after its expiry, it is likely that you will be questioned (and not in a good way) about your prior leaving date.

The problem of visiting the USA before a working holiday in Canada

To travel in or through the USA you must comply with the Visa Waiver Program requirements noted above.

IEC participants who have not yet activated their work permit in Canada need proof of onward travel out of North America (USA, Mexico, Canada, Caribbean Islands and Bermuda) within 90 days of arrival in the USA.

Not having onward travel plans outside of this area means that you may encounter issues when trying to enter the USA. 

After activating an IEC work permit, you are considered a resident of Canada and as such, do not need to prove onward travel beyond North America within 90 days of their arrival in the USA. 

While there are undoubtedly many IEC participants who travel through the USA on their way to Canada without any problems, a few people have contacted my IEC Facebook group and let us know that they were stopped and asked to purchase a flight out of North America within the 90-day period. There is a risk, albeit a relatively small one. 

How to avoid the Visa Waiver Program issue

It is understandable that many IEC participants will still want to visit the USA before heading to Canada for their working holiday. If you’re one of them, there are two main options to comply with the Visa Waiver Program requirements:

• Book onward travel beyond North America
• Apply for a US Visa

The easiest way is to purchase a method of onward travel beyond North America, with the departure within 90 days of your arrival in the USA. Most airlines have refundable flight options.

An alternative way to avoid this Visa Waiver Program issue is to apply for a US visa. Visa holders are exempt from needing to have onward travel from North America within 90 days.

A B2 Visa, for example, is for people visiting the USA for the purpose of tourism, pleasure, or visit to friends and family. The application is much more involved than the VWP and requires an interview at a US Embassy or Consulate.

And, of course, the third option is to take a risk. It’s never an option I would personally recommend, however. 

General advice about visiting the USA while on a working holiday in Canada

While the vast majority of crossings into the USA by IEC working holiday participants go without issue, a minority of people experience a delay in entry. Here are some quick tips to make your border crossing go more smoothly:

• Have definite plans.  Speaking to the US border officials confidently about your travel plans is key. Although you don’t need to provide a specific itinerary, you should be able to explain clearly and concisely why you want to visit the USA
• Take care of your appearance.  Looking presentable can go a long way with having an easy border crossing into the USA. It sounds obvious but sure to wear clean clothes, brush your hair and wash your face before heading to the border
• Tidy up. If driving into the USA, make sure your vehicle is presentable too. Having your vehicle searched definitely slows down the border entry process. Cleaner vehicles look as though they have less to hide. This is especially important if you are driving a campervan or RV into the USA
• Check your vehicle for contraband.  Although cannabis may now be legal in Canada (and some US states) you are not allowed to bring any over the border. If applicable, check your vehicle/luggage for cannabis and paraphernalia before trying to cross the border into the USA

A free pass into the USA – one of my visa waiver experiences

Having lived in Canada for quite a few years now, I’ve hopped over the border a fair few times. At the moment, I live close enough to go for dinner. One of my most memorable experiences, however, was when I was travelling to Skagway, Alaska from Yukon Territory.

The border, for reference, is on the edge of a valley surrounded by jagged mountains. Picturesque, but I still wanted to get the border crossing process over and done with as soon as possible. 

At the secondary inspection building, the only other person there was a Dutch IEC working holiday participant. After eavesdropping for a few minutes, I learned that he was in something of a stalemate with the US border official .

He had planned to pay the $6 fee with his Canadian debit card but this wasn’t accepted (if only he’d read a post such as this before leaving Canada!) Paying with a credit card was also not possible at their machines were currently down.

Without any US cash on hand, both men seemed to be a complete loss of what to do . Their conversation went around and around for quite a long time, with no resolution.

I started counting my money in the midst of the conversation and realised I had exactly $12.40, just enough to cover both of us. The border official was thankful yet also quite surprised.

In the end, he decided to waive both of our fees . I’m not sure why he didn’t do that in the first place, but it just goes to show how handy it can be to have at least a handful of local currency before visiting a country.

Read these useful IEC working holiday articles next

How to File a Tax Return after your Working Holiday in Canada

7 Must Do Experiences on your Canadian working holiday

Found this post helpful? Subscribe to our IEC newsletter ! Working holiday advice and updates delivered straight to your inbox, with a  FREE printable IEC packing list  

Check out these other posts about working holidays in Canada

IEC Working Holiday Canada Extension Guide

IEC Working Holiday Canada: Arrival Checklist

Working Holiday Visa 2024 Canada IEC: Ultimate Application Guide

One half of the Canadian/British couple behind Off Track Travel, Gemma is happiest when hiking on the trail or planning the next big travel adventure. JR and Gemma are currently based in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

Wednesday 19th of July 2023

Your blogs are saviours for me - I've got my IEC visa and will be moving from the UK to Canada in November, so excited! So I firstly just wanted to say a huge thank you for the blog posts as it's helping me so much with the move.

I plan on travelling the US and Central/South America, whilst having Canada as my base, since I'll be over there. Are there any restrictions on travelling abroad whilst on the IEC visa? I'm only planning on short trips to the US and about 2-3 months in Central/South America.

Many Thanks!

So glad our website has been helpful!

Yes, you can travel elsewhere while on the IEC Working Holiday program but keep in mind that your work permit time will continue to tick down while you're away. Bring your original work permit with you (and make a scan). In theory, you could be asked for all of the same activation documents (insurance, proof of funds etc) on your return to Canada, though most are never asked.

The other thing to check is your insurance. I'd suggest getting insurance with a company that covers your additional travel outside of Canada, such as True Traveller.

Wednesday 22nd of March 2023

Hi Gemma, I'm on an IEC Visa & looking to travel to the US for a holiday. My company has an office in San Francisco and wanted to understand under my visa am I allowed to work for a few days while over there to extend my stay? I heard something about needing to attend a meeting to be allowed to do this but wanted to double check if it's allowed. Thank you

Thursday 23rd of March 2023

Hi Fiachra,

The requirements of the US visa waiver program (I'm assuming you are from a visa waiver country) state that the following business activities are allowed:

Source - Travel.State.Gov website

Monday 27th of February 2023

I plan to move to Vancouver but want to fly into Seattle first for a few days of travel and then fly onward to Vancouver. If I have a return flight booked from Ireland to Seattle and a flight booked from Seattle to Vancouver, should I have any issues with immigration at the US?

Also, can you enter Canada and activate your work permit at a later date? i.e. if I wanted to take 2-3 weeks to holiday around Vancouver before starting work

Monday 6th of March 2023

Hi Darragh,

Having a return flight back to Ireland sounds like it would satisfy that requirement. It's very unlikely you would have issues.

Yes, you can enter Canada and then activate your work permit later (see IRCC FAQ here). Keep in mind that you will need travel insurance (to cover medical expenses and repatriation) for the full length of your intended stay from the date of your intended activation. If you are purchasing a policy to start on that exact date, you will need to make sure that it is an 'already travelling' policy that allows it to be started in Canada rather than your home country. Most insurance policies have a requirement that you purchase it at home before leaving. If you're from Ireland, True Traveller sell 'already travelling' policies.

Monday 13th of February 2023

Hi Gemma, I am on WH in Canada and I traveled on ESta before. However I wanted to make longer road trip so I applied for B2 visa which has been refused. Does it mean I cant use my ESTA anymore and I have to reapply for B2 this time in Canada? (Before I applied in my home country - Slovakia stating that I work and live in Canada). Are my chances bigger applying from Canada? Thank you

Tuesday 14th of February 2023

@Gemma, Thank you so much for you response. I will apply again with the lawyer and I can share my experience in case someone is having the same issues.

Sorry to hear that your B2 was refused. I don't know much about B2 refusals but I believe that it would invalidate your ESTA as your circumstances have changed. I am unsure regarding the reapplication. Sorry I can't be of more help.

Thursday 2nd of February 2023

Hi Gemma, Thank you for the Information! You said the ESTA is valid for 2 years but is this for multiple trips within a 2-year period of one trip taken up to 2 years after getting it? I am currently in Canada doing a working holiday and I am planning to make several short trips to the states.

Friday 3rd of February 2023

Yes, you can use the ESTA for multiple trips to the USA during that two year timeframe.

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What is US Work Visa?

Us work visa categories, eligibility for usa work visa, how to apply for us work visa, documents required for us work visa, photo specification of us work visa, processing time of usa work visa, us work visa fees, after submission, how to check us work visa status, when you have this visa, usa work visa for indians - definitive guide.

Known as the ‘Land of opportunities’ thanks to the ever-expanding opportunities for work, business, and other purposes, the United States of America is a dream destination. However, to enter the country for work, you will need a non-immigrant type of the USA work visa for Indian citizens .

The USA work permits are endorsements that allow entry into the country for people who are employed in an organization in the country. Only a few nationalities can enter the country without a visa. Since Indians are not among them, a work visa is mandatory. There are various types of entry permits issued for work by the US Embassy.

Based on the type of work you will be performing, the work permits can be classified into the following -

• Journalist & Media (I) - This category allows journalists and other media workers to enter the US to perform their related work. However, the organization they work for must be based outside the US.
• Exchange visitor (J1) - This permit is issued for people who are entering the US on an exchange program. Apart from work, this can be obtained for study exchange programs as well.
• Professional Job Visa (H1-B) - This is the most issued category, and is granted for people taking part in professional work. The H1B visa USA will require to hold at least a Bachelor's degree.
• Intra-company transfer (L1) - The L1 visa USA is issued to people who are travelling to the US to work in a subsidiary, branch, affiliate, or parent company of a company situated outside the US.
• Artists/Entertainers/Athletes (P) - This is granted for artists, entertainers, or athletes travelling to the US to take part in their work or project.

In order to be able to apply for the work visa for USA , you must meet the following eligibility criteria.

• You must apply for a visa from India. 
• You need to have a job and a letter from the organisation confirming your employment to be able to apply for the work category. 
• You will need an I-129 and I-797 form from your employer. 
• Your employer will need to possess a Labour certification approval from the Department of Labour in the US. 
• You must be healthy enough to travel to the US.
• You must be within the age limit to be able to apply for a work permit.
• You must be of good character and have genuine intentions behind working in the US.

The application for the USA work visa from India is a lengthy and complicated process. As a result, it is recommended that you use the services of a travel agency to apply for it. Now, before starting your application, you must ensure that you are eligible to travel for the specific work category. You can then make the application as follows - 

• Make sure that you have all the documents required for the permit.
• Visit the US Department of State Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website, and fill in your details in the DS-160 form. Make a note of the DS-160 form barcode as you will need it for the rest of the procedure.
• Proceed to pay the application fees. Make a note of the receipt number.
• Log on to your account and proceed to book your appointments. You will have to book 2 appointments. The first one is for the biometric submission at one of the five VACs, and the second one is for your interview at the US Embassy or Consulate.
• On the day of your first appointment, visit your VAC along with a passport, appointment confirmation page, documents, and a DS-160 confirmation page. You will be subjected to a fingerprint scan, and a digital photo will be taken.
• For your visa interview, you will have to visit the embassy or consulate along with a valid passport, documents, appointment confirmation page, and the VAC stamped DS-160 page. 

Note that the application form has to be filled correctly. The documents that are submitted have to be valid and legitimate. Fake or invalid documents can get your application rejected. A visa denial is an important issue and can deem you ineligible for other visas.

As per the USA work visa requirements from India , you will need the following documents for the application at the time of your interview - 

• A passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of intended travel.
• Completed DS-160 application form.  
• Photos as per the specifications.
• Copy of I-129 and I-797 forms.
• Educational documents. 
• Original employment contract. 
• Your Curriculum Vitae.
• Employment offer letter.
• Experience certificate.

Note that based on the exact type of the work permit, you will require additional documents.

The USA work visa photo requirements state that the photographs submitted must meet the following specifications -

• Dimensions:  50mm X 50mm
• Colour: Coloured
• Recently taken
• Background: plain white
• Must have 70% face coverage
• Facial expression: neutral
• Eyes directed towards the camera and wide open 
• Glasses: allowed for medical reasons only
• Uniforms are not permitted
• Headgears: allowed only for religious reasons
• Facial hair is permitted.

The work visas are normally processed within 7-10 working days. However, these are almost certain to vary based on the type of the visa, any additional procedures required, the validity of the permit, the volume of applications at the specific embassy or consulate, and so on. Apart from this, you will have to take into account the high wait time for scheduling an interview. It is therefore advised to apply as early as possible.

The total cost depends on several aspects such as biometric fees, service charges, etc. The fees also can be changed by the embassy or consulate without any prior notice and as a result, ensure that you check the exact amount before starting your application.

Once you have submitted your application, your application will be processed by the embassy. Note that once submitted, you will not be able to modify the application. As a result, ensure that you do not make any mistakes while making the application.

The visa fee is non-refundable. As a result, even if your application is rejected, you will not receive a refund. Therefore, it is advised to make your application through a reputed travel agency.

While you are waiting for an answer, you can check your visa status. This can be done in multiple ways. You can do this by visiting the CEAC website and using the interview location, and DS-160 form number to view it. Or, you can email at ‘[email protected]’ with your passport number.

On successfully obtaining your work visa, you must keep in mind the following few points to ensure that you have a hassle-free journey -

• Note the validity, stay duration, and the number of entries mentioned on your visa. You must not stay in the country beyond this period.
• Carry all your travel documents before you travel to the country. 
• You must show your passport with the visa to the immigration officer at the port of entry. Your entry stamp will be placed on the passport.
• You may be asked to show the copy of the other documents submitted as part of your application.
• You may be asked about the basic details of your visit. Ensure that you answer honestly and without hesitance.
• Note that the US border control officials have the right to refuse you entry if you don’t meet the requirements. The visa alone does not guarantee you entry into the country.
• You must register with your employer upon arrival in the US.
• You will be able to extend the visa depending upon the category.
• You may bring your spouse or children (children below 21) on dependent visas according to the type of work permit you possess.
• You must respect the culture and customs of the country, as well as abide by the immigration laws during your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i extend my american work visa.

You are allowed to extend the US work entry visas according to the individual type. For this, you will have to visit the immigration department in the US and apply for an extension. Although it is legally possible to get an extension, the chances of it getting approved depend on the decision of the department. You will also need to submit the documents you have submitted for getting the permit.

After Expiring My US Work visa, How Long Can I Stay?

Once your work permit has expired, you are not allowed to stay back in the country for any longer. You are expected to leave the country before your permit expires. However, you may opt for an extension. Staying back in the country after expiry, without a valid extension, is considered as an offence and can lead to fines and maybe even deportation. You will also become ineligible to apply for other US visas in the future.

What is the Medical Test for the US work visa?

As per the requirements by the US embassy, there are no mandatory medical test requirements for the US work permit. In either case, for your own safety, and of those living in the US, it is suggested that you get medical check-ups done before travelling to a foreign country.

How Much Bank Balance is Required to Get a work visa for US?

As the permit is of work category, there is no requirement of funds. However, for your own safety, it is suggested to possess enough funds to support your stay until you take up the job.

How many months before the trip should I apply for a US Work Visa?

Even though the processing time for the US work category is around 7-10 working days, it can take much longer depending on several factors. In fact, it can even take longer to get you an available appointment slot. As a result, you must apply well in advance. As per the recommendation, it is advised that you apply at least 2 months before your intended travel date.

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Work and Travel USA

Summer Work Travel is a program started by the U.S. State Department in the 1960s for students from all over the world who want to visit America during their summer break. Not for those who just want to take a few pictures or videos, but for those who also want to earn some money.

Summer Work Travel gives you the chance to be more than a tourist, and we believe it's the greatest college experience.

Last year 90,000 students went to the States with the Summer Work Travel program. About 7700 were from Romania.  

Summer work travel program history.

In the 1960s the U.S. State Department laid the foundation for a series of programs that allowed young people from around the world to experience the American lifestyle for a limited period of time. Initially a program for travel alone, it gained momentum when the State Department realized that there were many students who wanted to visit the USA but also earn some money.

As a result, as part of the Summer Work Travel program students with J1 visas are now allowed to travel and work legally in the USA during their summer break. For Romania the program runs from June 15th to October 30th. Students may work until October 1st, then travel for up to 30 days afterwards.

AMERICAN EXPERIENCE

When you come to us, you can be sure you'll have the best selection of jobs and accommodations in the places you want to go. First of all, because we are leaders in the field of cultural and educational programs in United States, and second of all because we have a long list of trusted employers from which you can choose a job. To date we've sent thousands of students to the States, making us one of the most prominent Summer Work Travel companies in Eastern Europe.

You can go to the States if you are in one of the following categories:

FULL-TIME BACHELOR'S, MASTER'S, or PHD STUDENT

You may attend either a public or private university, and it should be accredited. You must be less than 30 years old and at least intermediate English-language skills. Even if you’re not a Romanian citizen, if you study and live in Romania you are eligible for the Summer Work Travel program.

FINAL-YEAR/GRADUATING BACHELOR'S STUDENTS

You can still go the USA if you are in your final year of college, as long as you plan to continue your studies by applying to a master's or PhD program.

“FRESHMEN”

You can go to the USA as early as your first year of college, as long as you are a full-time student at an accredited university.

Since 2010, the USA Embassy in Bucharest has relaxed the eligibility conditions for the Summer Work Travel program: there is no minimum grade point requirement. However, it is still important to have good grades and few or no failed exams.

So, ”All students are invited to Work and Travel in the USA”.

It’s not a trip. it’s not tourism. it’s a journey..

We have three options for you. You can go independently (find your own job and housing), you can choose job placement for locations throughout the U.S., or you can choose a special package/specific destination.

INDEPENDENT

We help you get your visa; you must find your own job and housing. In this case, the Summer Work Travel program costs you $ 1499. To simplify the process you can download a Work Placement Agreement for your employer to fill in.

JOB PLACEMENT

American Experience works with you and the Visa Sponsor to get the job you want. With this option your only concern is passing your exams and packing your bags for the summer. The price of this option is $ 1499.

SPECIAL PACKAGE

If you want to go to one of the most sought-after destinations in the USA, then choose this option. You'll get the job and housing you want and live in a very cool location.

THE PRICE INCLUDES:

• Obtaining the legal right for you to work in USA • DS-2019 form for the visa interview; • Medical insurance; • Briefing and orientation sessions; • Assistance during the program period in the USA; • Housing assistance during the program period.

Hurry up if you'd like a special package, as there are limited placements!  

Sign up early, because there are several steps in the process…  .

But also because you have a higher chance of getting a good job and going to a more touristic destination.

Don't wait until the last week before summer break, because by then, no matter how fast we move it will be too late to get you to the States. Just like at a concert, the good seats are gone quickly. In our case, for Hawaii, California, and Ocean City you need to sign up early. This way, you have access to a bigger job list, and the visa process and paperwork are less stressful.

EMBASSY AND VISA

Before you arrive in the States, you need a j-visa that enables you to enter the country, then work and travel. You get one by going to a visa interview at the United States Embassy in Bucharest. The interviewer will ask standard questions about you, about your plans in the USA, about where you are going to work, etc. Our advice is to be calm and to be honest.

Choose your program option. Tell us if it’s going to be independent or with a job placement.

Sign up. Bring your ID (original and a copy) and your proof of student status so a program coordinator can help you fill in the signup sheet. You then have 10 days to pay the first installment of your program fee

Choose your job. (Or don’t choose one if you applied for the Independent option.)

Apply for your visa.

Get your plane ticket.

Come to our briefing and orientation sessions.

Your embassy file must have:

DS 2019 FORM (Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status)

DS-160 VISA APPLICATION FORM

VISA FEE $185 as of June 17, 2023

PHOTO must meet Embassy requirements.

The Summer Work Travel program was created for students that want to work and travel in the US during their summer break. American Experience offers jobs in areas and cities worth visiting as tourists. In fact, the reason why employers need more employees in those areas is that a great number of tourists visit these cities during summer. There are also lots of things to see! Las Vegas, Ocean City, Palm Beach, the Grand Canyon, the Rocky Mountains, Atlantic City, California, New England, Texas – there are a lot of places you can go.

Whatever position you have, it’s a temporary job, so you don’t need any special qualifications or tourism experience. If you are going to interact with the customers, your charm, communication skills, and your English knowledge will help you.

Your duties will be simple, so you will be able to do your job - especially since you will be trained by your employer.  

Summer break period.

American employers need you beginning on June 15th, and you can work until October 1st. After that you may no longer work, but you can travel for up to 30 days after the end date on your DS-2019 form. You can arrange your return travel for this time, but keep in mind that August is when many American students return to school, so your chances to work extra hours or find a second job increase. For the widest range of choices, plan to arrive in June, and be sure to sign up for the program early.

WAGES, TIPS, OVERTIME

In the USA you have the same rights as an American citizen working the same job. If you are there as part of the Summer Work Travel program you are working legally, just like an American. You can easily find a second job, where you can work part-time. You can work as much as you want, and you can earn money from wages, tips, and overtime. Working full- time usually means 40 hours per week, and most employers pay for overtime at 150% of your regular wage.

HOW TO FIND A JOB?

There are several ways to find a job under the Summer Work Travel program. First, you can attend a Job Fair (we'll let you know when it's going to take place) where you can meet potential employers and discuss job details. You can show your personal and professional strengths. Most of the time personal contact helps you get the job in the end. Another option is to visit an AE office and consult the AE job list. You can also find your own job by getting in touch with friends that live in the USA or searching online. Be careful not to buy job offers from unauthorized people! Not only is it illegal, but you also risk not having a job when you get there!

 Check the available jobs here

There are a few things in United States that you should be careful about: medical insurance and income taxes.

In the USA, like everywhere, any income is taxable, and for any medical needs you must have insurance or you will have to cover all of your own expenses.  

Medical insurance.

SThe American Health System is different from ours. The biggest difference is that it is more expensive. Everything is paid by the patient. Subscribers (except retirees and disabled people) do not receive help from the Government to cover insurance costs. The hospitals are extremely modern and have up-to-date technology. If you have an accident and do not have medical insurance, you will be responsible for the cost of all medical procedures. All American Experience program participants have medical insurance that meets U.S. State Department requirements; it is included in the program free. The insurance is necessary for your journey abroad and can be used both in the USA and in transit countries.

Your insurance covers emergency medical expenses, early return to your home country (for medical reasons), emergency dental treatment, lost luggage, lost plane ticket, etc.

You will pay several taxes over the period you work in the States: federal and state taxes and sometimes Medicare or Social Security Taxes. American Experience can help you request a refund of your taxes and have them sent back to your bank account (we recommend a dollar account). The state and federal tax refund process takes from 30 to 90 days; Medicare and Social Security Tax refunds (usually not paid by Summer Work Travel participants) can take up to 6 months.

CULTURAL DISTINCTIONS

We're sure you've heard lots of stories, both good ones and bad ones, about Americans. You probably have some ideas about American society from movies and TV shows. The U.S. society is extremely complex and diverse. There are differences between Americans living in different geographical areas, in cities or in the countryside, and between different social classes. Added to that, there are millions of immigrants that add more variety and color to their culture. Applicants should understand that the program's stipend or wages might not cover all of the program expenses, and applicants should bring additional personal funds to cover living expenses

Below we will present some ” typically American:” facts:  

Individuality.

Probably the most important American feature is that they see every person as an independent individual, with his own strengths and weaknesses, and they do not jump to conclusions despite their race, social status, and family. They emphasize the importance of equality, and their judgment is based on people's abilities. From birth children are taught to “stand on their own two feet,” to be independent. You may be surprised, but most American students choose the classes they want to attend, their leaders, and their careers without taking their parents' opinions into consideration. They make their own decisions.

Generally, Americans are very informal in relationships, even if there is an age difference. For example, students and teachers sometimes call each other by first name. In Romania it would be considered disrespectful, but it is a part of the American culture.

CULTURAL SHOCK

Culture shock is the process of adapting to a new and different country and culture. The weather, the food, the landscape, and the people you interact change, and they may seem strange at the beginning. It’s normal to feel shocked. When you get to know and understand them, the shock will disappear.

At the beginning it’s normal to feel nervous and home sick. In some cases you will experience low self-esteem and the need to talk to people from your country. You might even think you can’t make it on your own. The right thing to do is not to panic.

OUR OFFICES IN USA

A home away from home, a place to find some friends, and a real hub from which to explore the American continent - with trips designed specifically for Summer Work Travel participants.

COMPETITION

One of the most important American values is the competitive spirit and the need to compete all the time with someone. You will find competition everywhere, friendly or not. This could be by breaking records or seeking to achieve in sports, business, or any other area. For example, books and movies are not always judged by quality, but for the number of sold copies.

Even if they are very competitive, Americans appreciate teamwork and the pursuit of a common goal.

Our advices

Some Advice for Beating Culture Shock:

• Find something to do all the time. Watch a movie, go to a concert, take a walk. Avoid staying home and getting bored. • Focus on the present, and don’t think about home all the time. You will see that you are surrounded by good things and fun things to do. • Talk to people around you. Socialize, talk about yourself, and make friends you can spend your time with • There are a lot of community activities, sports competitions, volunteering, or social events you can attend. Get involved! • Go out, take walks, and explore the city. Your problems won’t go away if you keep sending emails to your parents.

We hope this gives you an idea about what living in the States means. For other details about living and working there and about American society, attend our briefing and orientation sessions.

Most returned students tell us that their experience was more than they every thought it would be. The experience of a lifetime, one that wouldn't be possible at this age in Romania or any other European country. For the first time in their life they got to know themselves better. Or to quote one student, "a time of growing up.”

This is why you should visit us and talk to one of our representatives - or with one of the students that came back “the same person but not exactly the same.”

You can’t find out about “self improvement, " “crossing the ocean that splits you from yourself,” or “leaving as one man and coming back a different one,” unless YOU GO!!  

Tibor ritner, oradea - ocean city.

Iulian Radu

București - ocean city.

Steliana Cosareanu

A few years ago we thought of a system to make the program accessible to any student, regardless of financial possibilities. This is how the Work and Travel Loan appeared. At this moment it is offered by Banca Transilvania under the name of "Gaudeamus"

The principle is quite simple: you are offered up to 3,500 euros (or the equivalent in lei), for a period of up to 2 years, and you can give them back when you return from the States.

What is being financed?

• registration fee for the Work & Travel program

• other fees (SEVIS fee, Consular fee)

• the cost of the plane ticket

• out-of-pocket expenses: maximum 15% of the loan amount

WORK AND TRAVEL LOAN ADVANTAGES

• You have 24 months to repay the loan

• In the first 6 months from the moment you are granted the loan, you can choose not to pay anything, neither the rate, nor the related interest

• Payment in full of the principal is not due until the end of the grace period

OFFICIAL RESOURCES

Move to Canada from the United States | Immigration, Work, and Study Visa Options

This comprehensive canadavisa page covers the range of canadian immigration, work, study, and citizenship options available to those in the u.s..

Over 10,000 people immigrate from the U.S. to Canada each year. Tens of thousands more move to Canada in pursuit of work and education. Learn how you can be among them. Simply click on the menu item below to jump to the section that addresses your Canadian immigration goal.

Contact our Law Firm for Assistance

Table of contents, immigrate as a skilled worker, family sponsorship, work in canada.

• Start a Business
• Study in Canada

Canadian Citizenship

• Inadmissibility
• Frequently Asked Questions  
• Contact our Law Firm for Assistance  

What is the easiest way to immigrate to Canada from the U.S.?

• Express Entry

Express Entry is Canada's main way of managing skilled worker applications for permanent residence. The U.S. is a leading source country of those who immigrate to Canada through Express Entry. A major advantage with the Express Entry immigration selection system is that applications are processed within six months or less. U.S. citizens and residents typically have a strong chance of being invited to apply for Canadian permanent residence through Express Entry, thanks to their strong language skills, skilled work experience, and high levels of education.

There are three federal skilled worker immigration programs managed under the Express Entry system that lead to permanent residence in Canada:

• The Federal Skilled Worker Program for skilled workers with foreign work experience.
• The Canadian Experience Class for skilled workers with Canadian work experience.
• The Federal Skilled Trades Program for skilled workers with qualifications in a skilled trade.

What are my other options for moving to Canada other than Express Entry?

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Like the U.S., Canada is subdivided into different jurisdictions, called provinces and territories. These provinces are, in some ways, similar to the different states that make up the United States. However, unlike American states, Canadian provinces and territories have an important role to play in determining who comes to these jurisdictions as new immigrants. The Provincial Nominee Program  (PNP) can be a great starting point for U.S. citizens and residents who know which province or territory they want to settle in, as well as others who have specific skills and work experience sought by a particular province or territory. If you are eligible for Express Entry, there is another major benefit to submitting an Express Entry profile. Candidates nominated by a Canadian province or territory who have a profile in the Express Entry pool receive an additional 600 points toward their Comprehensive Ranking System  (CRS) score, effectively guaranteeing them an Invitation to Apply for Canadian permanent residence.

Complete our FREE assessment to find out if you are eligible to immigrate from the US a skilled worker

I have a spouse or common-law partner living in Canada, can he or she sponsor me?

Sponsorship of a spouse or common-law partner

Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their spouse or common-law partner to obtain Canadian permanent resident status. Since Canada recognizes same-sex marriage, same-sex partners may apply for reunification as long as they meet all of Canada's standard eligibility requirements. Both the sponsoring Canadian citizen and the sponsored person must be approved by IRCC in order for the sponsored person to be granted permanent residence. To receive a visa under this immigration program, the sponsor and the sponsored person must prove that their relationship qualifies under one of these three categories: Spouse; Common-Law Partner; Conjugal Partner. The processing standard for spousal sponsorship applications in Canada is approximately 12 months from the date the application is received.

Complete our FREE spousal sponsorship form to see if you are eligible to sponsor your loved one

I would like to move to Canada to work, what are my options?

Obtaining a Canadian work visa (referred to as a work permit in Canada) is usually an important step towards working legally in Canada on a temporary basis. You and your prospective employer may have to obtain a document called a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before you begin working in Canada. However, most work permit holders in Canada however do not need an LMIA. In some cases, an LMIA is needed as it serves as evidence that your employment in Canada is likely to have a neutral or positive effect on the local labour market. Once the LMIA is granted, you will be able to apply for a temporary work permit from the IRCC. There may be opportunities to speed up the process, depending on your occupation and the work you plan to do in Canada.

Contact us for work permit assistance

Global Talent Stream

The Global Talent Stream is part of Canada's Global Skills Strategy. This federal program allows Canadian employers in high growth and IT industries to streamline the hiring of skilled foreign workers when Canadians are not available for particular positions. The hiring process under this fast-track program involves meeting certain requirements, such as completing a Labour Market Assessment (LMIA), commitment to certain salary requirements, among others. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) aims to process work permit applications from the Global Talent Stream in one month or less.

Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA)

Thanks to the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), formerly known as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), and also known as “USMCA”, U.S. citizens can benefit from a facilitated process when applying for a temporary work permit in Canada. Work permits issued under the provisions of the CUSMA agreement generally do not require an LMIA.

U.S. citizens may work in Canada under CUSMA in one of the following categories:

• CUSMA Professional

A CUSMA professional must be qualified to work in one of the more than 60 targeted professions, including teaching, science, medicine, finance, law, and many others.

• CUSMA intra-company transfer

Individuals transferred from the U.S. within a CUSMA company may be temporarily transferred to Canada to work for a branch, subsidiary or affiliate of their employer. These individuals must have worked continuously for their U.S. employer for at least one of the last three years and be employed by the company at the time of their application in a position considered to be managerial, executive or involving specialized knowledge.

• CUSMA Traders and Investors

A U.S. CUSMA trader must demonstrate an intention to engage in substantial trade in goods or services between Canada and the U.S.. A CUSMA investor must demonstrate that he or she has made a substantial investment in a new or existing Canadian business and is seeking to enter Canada to develop and operate the Canadian business.

Intra-Company Transfer

Because Canada is the United States’ largest trading partner, and vice versa, many American businesses have affiliate offices, branches, or subsidiaries in Canada. The Intra-Company Transfer Program allows international businesses to bring key employees to Canada without the requirement to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) . Employees who work in executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge roles may be eligible to come to Canada with their family and work as an intra-company transferee.

Work Without a Work Permit

A number of situations may occur when those in the U.S. can perform work in Canada without needing to secure a Temporary Work Permit . This includes individuals who engage in business or trade activities in Canada but will not enter the Canadian labour (labor) market, collectively referred to as Business Visitors .

Working Holidays

Working Holidays falls under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program and aims to facilitate international exchanges between young people from different nations. U.S. citizens between the ages of 18 to 35, may obtain an open work permit for 12 months under this program, provided that they have been enrolled in full-time post-secondary study at some point in the past twelve months. Final year students not returning to studies are also eligible.

Business Immigration

Can i move to canada to start a business.

Starting a business in Canada 

The goal of Canada's business immigration programs is to attract investors, entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals from outside Canada with venture capital, business acumen, and entrepreneurial skills.

Provincial Business and Entrepreneur Programs

Canadian provinces and territories have an important role to play in the settlement of economic migrants in their territory, and many are looking for energetic and innovative entrepreneurs to help grow their economies. Canadian provinces and territories can nominate individuals for immigration to their province based on their own criteria. Most Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) have streams dedicated to business immigration .

Self-Employed Persons Program

Individuals who wish to settle in one of Canada's provinces or territories as a professional athlete or artisan can obtain a business immigrant visa for themselves and their immediate family. This program is designed to bring people to Canada who will work as self-employed individuals . Applicants must have either relevant experience in cultural activities or athletics.

The Start-up Visa Program

Under the  federal Start-up Visa Program , immigrant entrepreneurs can develop their business in Canada. This program, recognized as one of the most unique immigration streams in the world, grants permanent residence to immigrant entrepreneurs while helping them settle in Canada. 

Work Permit Options

For many entrepreneurs, the fastest way to enter Canada is to obtain a temporary work permit.

Under the CUSMA Investors stream, citizens of the United States who invest in new or existing businesses in Canada may be allowed to apply for an Investor Work Permit to manage their Canadian business. Entrepreneurs who intend to maintain the operation of an existing business abroad while expanding into Canada may be eligible for Intra-company Transfer Work Permits . Those who are majority owners of a business in Canada can seek to obtain an Owner-Operator Work Permit.  U.S. residents and citizens also have the option to enter Canada through the Global Talent Stream . Employers working in high-growth sectors or wishing to hire highly skilled global IT professionals can apply for work permits through this stream and benefit from quick application processing times.

Can I move to Canada from the US to study?

There are now some 15,000 U.S. citizens who study in Canada each year. Over 1,500 universities, colleges and other educational institutions are authorized by Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to admit international students. International students can work while studying in Canada, which helps supplement income and gain work experience. Graduates of eligible Canadian institutions can apply for an open work permit called a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). The PGWP allows recent graduates to get valuable Canadian work experience, which in turn can make them eligible for permanent residence and increase their odds of successfully obtaining immigration status.

How can I apply for Canadian Citizenship?

U.S citizens and residents who immigrate to Canada and reside in the country for a few years may eventually apply to become citizens of their adopted country. This is a process known as naturalization, and Canada has one of the most liberal and welcoming naturalization processes in the world. A person can be a citizen of both the U.S. and Canada.

Proof of Canadian citizenship certificates can be obtained by those born abroad to Canadian citizens, by Canadian citizens living abroad who wish to work in Canada in jobs reserved for those of Canadian nationality, or for children born abroad to Canadian citizens. 

Criminal and Medical Inadmissibility

Can i move to canada if i have a criminal conviction.

Not everyone may be aware that a prior offence, even apparently as minor as a traffic violation, can render a person inadmissible to Canada . If in doubt, it is necessary to know what steps to take before and during the process of applying for an immigration or temporary resident visa to Canada in order to be allowed to enter Canada. Examples of convictions that could make a person inadmissible to Canada include impaired driving, theft, petty theft, assault, drunkenness and disorderly conduct, obstruction of justice and possession of marijuana, cocaine or other controlled substances/drugs.

A person may also be refused entry to Canada on health grounds if their condition is likely to be a danger to public health or safety or might reasonably be expected to cause excessive demand on Canada's health or social services. For family sponsorship cases involving the sponsorship of a spouse/common-law partner and dependent children, this excessive demand component of refusals on medical grounds is removed.

Even if a person or family member is found to be medically or criminally inadmissible to Canada, they still have options .

Frequently Asked Questions

1) can i just “move” to canada.

Yes and no. You do not require a visa to visit Canada for personal or business reasons. As a visitor, unless otherwise indicated by a Canadian immigration officer at a Canadian Port of Entry, you may remain in Canada for up to six months. However, to gain entry the immigration officer must be satisfied that you are a bona fide visitor, which means that you intend to leave Canada at the end of your visit. As a visitor you may not centralize your mode of living in Canada, and as a general rule you may not work in Canada without first securing a work permit. You may study in Canada without a study permit only if the course of study is six months or less in duration.

2) How hard is it to move to Canada from the U.S.?

The move itself from the U.S. to Canada should not be particularly complicated since the two countries are neighbors and you can simply cross the border by car with all your belongings. The process of applying for a visa trough the appropriate Canadian immigration program , having to gather all the supporting documents and having to fill out a large number of forms may prove to be the most difficult part.

3) Can I live in Canada as an American citizen?

Yes, if you are an American citizen, you may live in Canada. If your stay exceeds 180 days, you will most likely need a visa. You will also need a visa or work permit if you intend to work in Canada. Unless you apply for Canadian citizenship, you will always be considered an American citizen, including if you become a permanent resident of Canada.

4) What is the immigration process to Canada from the U.S.?

The process will depend on the reason why you are moving and the length of your stay.

If you plan to settle permanently in Canada, the easiest way is to enter the Express Entry Pool. Express Entry is an online expedited immigration application system with a processing time of approximately six months. You will be assessed based on your skills, education and work history and you will receive a score that may earn you an invitation to apply for permanent resident status.

For stays longer than six months you will need to apply for a work or study permit. The length of your stay on this type of permit will depend on the length of your academic studies or the length of your job offer in Canada.

If you are planning to stay for just a few months, you may want to consider getting a visitor visa . A visitor's visa allows you to stay in the country for up to six months, with the possibility of renewing it 30 days before it expires.

5) How long can I visit Canada for?

In general, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers at a Canadian Port of Entry issue entry stamps valid for a period of up to six months from the date of entry for visitors. This period may be extended from within Canada.

6) How can I immigrate to Canada as a skilled worker?

Canada has over 100 merit-based immigration streams for skilled workers. These programs assess candidates based on their human capital, such as age, education, language skills, work experience, family ties in Canada, among other criteria.

U.S. residents and citizens may seek to immigrate as skilled workers through Express Entry . Those who already know which province or territory they plan to immigrate to, may be able to apply under one of the Provincial Nominee Programs . The Quebec Skilled Worker Program is also an option for those planning to settle in Quebec.

7) Who qualifies as a skilled worker in Canada?

Canada assesses human capital criteria such as age, education, work experience, arranged employment, language skills and adaptability.

Federal skilled workers are selected under the Express Entry immigration system. Canadian provinces select internationally trained and experienced skilled workers based on the needs of employers their province through their respective Provincial Nominee Programs.

8) What is the Express Entry immigration system?

Express Entry is an electronic management application system for immigration to Canada.

It is not a new immigration program. Rather, it facilitates the selection and processing of Canada’s economic immigration programs:

• the Federal Skilled Worker Class ,
• the Federal Skilled Trades Class ,
• the Canadian Experience Class , and
• a portion of the Provincial Nominee Programs .

Applicants submit an "expression of interest" (EOI) in immigrating to Canada and, if they are eligible for at least one of the aforementioned programs, they then enter the Express Entry pool, where they are ranking according to the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) . The federal government then selects candidates from this pool, who receive an Invitation To Apply (ITA) for immigration to Canada under one of the programs. Express Entry moves Canada from a first come, first served (or supply-driven) system to an invitation to apply (or demand-driven) system. Modeled on similar systems in use in Australia and New Zealand, Express Entry aims to fast track the processing of skilled immigrants deemed most likely to succeed in Canada.

We have an entire FAQ page dedicated to Express Entry .

9) I have heard that Canada has a points-based immigration system. What does that mean?

Canada uses a points-based system called the Comprehensive Ranking System(CRS) to score profiles in the Express Entry pool. Candidates are evaluated based on a number of factors including age, level of education, language ability, work experience, whether or not the individual has arranged employment in Canada, and certain adaptability factors.

Once the individual enters the pool by having created an Express Entry profile , he or she becomes a candidate and is ranked along with other candidates. The Express Entry pool is a competitive environment, with a points-based ranking system where candidates are awarded up to 1,200 points under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The government conducts periodic draws, in which the top-ranked candidates are issued an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

10) Can I work in Canada without a work permit?

In general, you need a visa or work permit to be allowed to work in Canada. US citizens or residents coming to Canada on business may stay in the country without a work permit for up to 6 months. There are types of jobs that may not require a work permit , they include athletes or those coming to work for Canadian charitable or religious organizations, among others.

11) I am an entrepreneur, what are my immigration options in Canada?

The federal government offers streams such as the Start-Up Visa Program , the Self-Employed Program and there are various other entrepreneur immigration categories within the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). To learn more, review this Canada business immigration programs page.

12) How do I know if I need a permit to work in Canada?

In Canada work visas and employment authorizations are known as work permits . The work permit is a document issued by the Canadian government that authorizes a foreign national to work for a specific employer in a specific position. Most U.S. residents and citizens will require a work permit to work in Canada.

13) Who can get a work permit in Canada?

Foreign individuals wishing to obtain a work permit must meet a number of eligibility requirements depending on their location at the time of application. The type of work permit that can be obtained depends on the situation of each person. You can find more information here.

14) Can my Canadian work permit be extended?

The length of a work permit is based on the nature of the employment in Canada and the work permit category under which you applied. It is possible to extend a work permit from within Canada, but some work permits have a maximum duration.

15) Can I afford to move to Canada?

If you are applying under the Federal Skilled Worker Program and Federal Skilled Trades Program you will need to show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family for the first few months after you arrive in Canada. The required amount of settlement funds you will need depends on the size of your family unit. You will asked to provide a written proof that you can access that money if you invited to apply for permanent residence.

All immigrants who land in Canada must pay the Right of Permanent Residence Fee and cover expenses related to supporting documents, such as diplomas, certifications, photographs, credential assessment, language tests and medical examinations.

16) Can I move to Canada without having a job?

Foreign nationals may qualify for immigration to Canada without a Canadian job offer. The best option for those seeking to immigrate to Canada without a job offer is to apply for Express Entry . However, obtaining a valid Canadian job offer significantly increases your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residence in Canada.

Some of Canada's Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and work permits do not require candidates to have a Canadian job offer in order to qualify.

17) Is it more expensive to live in Canada than the U.S. ?

The cost of living in Canada varies depending on where you decide to live. In general, the cost of living is higher in large cities than in smaller, more rural villages. Most Canadians spend 35% to 50% of their income on housing and utilities.

Like many countries, Canada adds sales taxes to many goods and services. The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a tax imposed by the Canadian government that is added to the price of most goods and services. In most provinces, there is also a provincial sales tax (PST), which varies between 7% and 10%. Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Ontario combine the GST with the PST and call it the HST.

While Canada may have slightly higher taxes than the U.S. in general, health care and education costs are much lower.

Overall, your costs will depend on the lifestyle choices you will make.

18) Does studying in Canada cost less than in the U.S.?

Generally, your tuition and living expenses in Canada will be lower than in the U.S.

International students are also allowed to work during and after their studies in Canada so that they can earn income to support themselves and gain work experience.

19) Will I have to pay income taxes in Canada or the U.S. after I move?

Canada and the U.S. have a tax treaty which, in order to avoid double taxation and prevent tax evasion with respect to income and wealth taxes, should make moving to Canada as easy as possible. While one of the main differences between the two countries is that Canadian income tax law is based on residency (while U.S. tax law is based on citizenship), the Canada-U.S. tax treaty provides for several mechanisms known as foreign tax credits to ensure that the individual does not have to pay double taxes to both countries.

20) Will I have access to health care services in Canada?

Canada has a public health care system that makes critical care accessible to all Canadian citizens and permanent residents, as well as some temporary residents. Canada's provinces and territories all have public health insurance plans to cover basic medical needs. It may take up to three months after arrival before health insurance begins in some provinces.

If you are not covered, make sure that you make it a priority to seek health care for you and your family as soon as you arrive. Also, it may be a good idea to get some form of private health insurance from an insurance company to cover you in case of an emergency until your provincial health insurance plan begins.

21) Can my state of health affect my ability to immigrate to Canada?

Yes, if you have a health issue it is possible that you are medically inadmissible to Canada. Medical inadmissibility comes about in one of two contexts:

• The less common of these is medical inadmissibility that results from being assessed as a threat to the health of Canadians. This would be case for those afflicted with a communicable disease that poses a risk of proliferation within Canada. This is relatively rare as there are not many contagious illnesses or conditions that permanently affect one’s state of health. HIV and AIDS are examples of such a situation, and can be grounds for a determination of medical inadmissibility.
• More often than not, medical inadmissibility is determined by assessing how large a strain a particular individual would put on the Canadian healthcare system. If one’s state of health requires significant and frequent medical intervention, that individual can be found medically inadmissible. There are no strict criteria or guidelines as to what constitutes medical inadmissibility in this context as this determination is made on a case by case basis. However, the cost of any medication required and the frequency with which one must see a medical specialist are among the factors that are considered.

22) Can I bring my family members to Canada from the U.S.?

You can bring your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children with you when you decide to immigrate to Canada.

Your spouse may be able to join you in Canada on an open work permit, which allows him or her to work for any employer in Canada without having to make a confirmed job offer. Also, if you have accompanying dependent children, they do not need a study permit to study at Canadian educational institutions.

Canada recognizes the inherent rights of same-sex couples before the law, and this extends to immigration.

23) I am separated from my spouse, can I immigrate to Canada from the U.S. with my children?

Yes, but proof of the permission of the non-accompanying parent will be required in most cases. You will need to provide a notarized form.

24) Can I bring my pet(s) to Canada?

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) can refuse entry to any animal that does not meet its entry requirements. If you would like to know more about these requirements, click here .

25) How is the coronavirus pandemic impacting immigration processing?

Canada continues to process immigration applications during COVID-19. Canada has travel restrictions in place but those in the U.S. can still enter Canada during the pandemic as long as they fall under the list of exempted individuals.

26) Can I work in Canada without having to first applied for permanent residence?

Yes, this is possible. At any one time, many Americans are working in Canada with valid legal status but without permanent resident status.

27) Can I go from temporary residence to permanent residence?

Yes, in fact, obtaining a temporary work permit in Canada is often seen as a step towards permanent residence in Canada. People who already have an active temporary work permit in Canada have several ways to move from temporary work permit to permanent residence, including applying under Express Entry Programs.

The Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) assigns points for human capital factors including work experience.

To be eligible for the Canadian Experience Class , you must have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada and have gained your work experience by working in Canada while you were under temporary resident status.

If you are employed in Canada on a temporary work permit and the employer has made you an offer of employment for at least one year, you may also earn points under the Federal Skilled Worker Program .

Candidates may also choose to apply to one of the Provincial Nominee Programs . Provincial skilled worker programs usually require an employer to sponsor the candidate for admission to Canada. As a first step, candidates may receive temporary work permits to enter Canada while their permanent residence application is being processed.

28) Is immigrating to Quebec different than in the rest of Canada?

Quebec is a unique place in the Canadian landscape. As Canada's only predominantly French-speaking province. Under the 1991 Canada-Quebec Accord, the Quebec government is responsible for selecting economic immigrants to the province, including skilled workers and entrepreneurs. This selection process is managed by the Quebec Ministry of Immigration, Francization and Integration (MIFI).

Foreign nationals who wish to settle in Quebec may do so under economic immigration programs such as:

• Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP)
• Quebec Experience Program (Programme de l’expérience québécoise (PEQ)
• Quebec Business Immigration

29) Can a U.S citizen or resident apply for asylum or refugee status in Canada?

Whether an individual or family may be given asylum or refugee status is not determined by nationality. What matters is how people are being treated and protected by the state that they are in. That being said, only a minuscule share of American refugee claimants are approved in Canada, and it is unlikely that an application for asylum or refugee status in Canada made by a U.S. citizen would be approved.

30) How many immigrants does Canada welcome per year?

Under its 2021-2023 Immigration Levels Plan, Canada will aim to welcome over 400,000 immigrants a year . Canada will admit most of its newcomers in the economic class, the majority of whom (around 60%) arrive through programs such as Express Entry , the Provincial Nominee Program , and other federal programs such as the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIP). Canada continues to increase immigration levels to maintain a strong economy.

Cohen Immigration Law  has been helping clients move from the United States to Canada for over 45 years. Cohen Immigration Law's team of over 60 Canadian immigration lawyers, paralegals, and other professionals are able to help you move from the US as a skilled worker, through family sponsorship, on a work or study permit, for business purposes, and to address your other needs such as obtaining Canadian citizenship and overcoming inadmissibility. Please reach out to us so we can help you achieve your Canadian immigration goals:

Skilled Worker Assistance

Find out if you are eligible to immigrate to Canada through one of the country's over 100 skilled worker options.

Family Sponsorship Assistance

See if you are eligible to sponsor a loved one, or be sponsored by a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

Other Immigration Enquiries

Contact us about work permits, study permits, business immigration, citizenship, and inadmissibility.

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Canada's express entry draw results from june 19, 2024.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted another Express Entry draw today. Here are the results from the department's latest Express Entry draw on June 19, 2024.

IRCC conducts its first Express Entry draw for CEC candidates since 2021

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued its first round of Express Entry invitations for Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates since September 14, 2021. Read on for the results of IRCC's May 31 Express Entry draw.

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The USA’s Working Holiday Program for Australians

Matt graham.

• 28 April 2023
• Working Holiday Visa Guides

The United States welcomes citizens of other countries to participate in its exchange visitor program in a variety of categories. For example, it issues exchange visitor (J) visas to exchange students, physicians, au pairs, scholars, teachers, interns, specialists and camp counsellors.

One of the exchange visitor program categories is “Summer Work Travel”. Citizens from most countries can travel and work in the USA for up to 4 months with this type of visa, however Australian and New Zealand citizens who are full-time students can stay for up to 12 months.

During the year, you’ll get to experience US culture while having an opportunity to work in seasonal or unskilled temporary jobs. This makes the Summer Work Travel Pilot Program ideal for Australian (and New Zealander) students looking to undertake a working holiday in the United States.

However, this program works a bit differently to most regular working holiday programs as you’ll need to find (and pay for) a sponsor. There is also no age limit, but you would need to be a current full-time university or TAFE student (or have graduated in the past year).

This page contains information about the USA’s Summer Work Travel Pilot Program for Australian citizens. It was last updated on 28 April 2023.

(See the BridgeUSA website for more general information about the J-1 Visa and various program categories.)

Key facts about the United States of America (USA)

Usa summer work travel pilot program requirements, how to apply for the summer work travel pilot program.

• Population: Approx. 335 million
• Official language: Although the USA does not have an official language, English is the de-facto language
• Capital city: Washington DC
• Largest cities: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia
• Currency: United States Dollar (USD)

To participate in the USA Summer Work Travel Pilot Program as an Australian citizen, you must meet the following requirements :

• Be a current full-time university or TAFE student, or a recent graduate (i.e. graduating within the last 12 months), having already successfully completed at least one year of study
• Speak English
• Obtain sponsorship from an exchange visitor program approved by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs

You cannot apply for this visa if you:

• Will be accompanied by dependent children
• Have already taken part in the Summer Work Travel program (however, you may take part if you’ve previously held another J-1 visa category)

The US Department of State website has more information about this visa.

The USA’s exchange visitor program is different to the working holiday programs offered by most other countries. To participate in the Australian Summer Work Travel Pilot Program category of the exchange visitor program, you’ll first need to find a sponsor .

You can find a list of designated sponsors on the BridgeUSA website . You can also search by home country . The sponsor will provide you with specific program and application requirements. Program sponsors are responsible for selecting participants and will also help you during your stay in the United States. Fees are payable to sponsors.

If you are accepted into the program, your sponsor will issue you with the necessary form (DS-2019). You’ll then need to pay the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee , fill out an Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form (DS-160) and pay the USD185 (approx. AUD280) visa application fee.

After completing these steps, you can schedule an interview at your a US consulate in Australia (Sydney, Melbourne or Perth). The next available appointment could be weeks or even many months away, so book well in advance!

In Australia, a third-party company called USTravelDocs organises US visa applications and interview appointments.

If you can’t find a suitable appointment at your nearest US consulate, you may wish to travel interstate. Anecdotally, Perth is the easiest place to get an appointment.

On the day of your interview, bring:

• The completed Form DS-2019
• Form DS-160 confirmation page
• Valid Australian passport
• Passport-sized photo
• Visa application fee receipt

For more information, see the US Department of State website . This website has also published a helpful step-by-step guide to applying for a J-1 visa .

While best efforts are made to keep this information updated, we do not guarantee its accuracy. If you spot an error, would like to suggest new information to be added or simply have a question, please let us know in the comments and we’ll endeavour to respond or update the article as quickly as possible!

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2 thoughts on “ the usa’s working holiday program for australians ”.

Hi Matt, I have recently completed a ‘Bachelor of Film & TV’ degree in Melbourne and am yet to graduate. My family have recently moved to Cardiff, California close to plenty of production houses near San Diego. Could you please clarify the best way for me to obtain a sponsorship? Many thanks, Flynn

Hi Flynn, this isn’t something we can really assist you with unfortunately but there is a full list of designated sponsors for the Summer Work/Travel program here – https://j1visa.state.gov/participants/how-to-apply/sponsor-search/?program=Summer%20Work%20Travel

I’d suggest looking into the 9 sponsors which are based in California. You’ll need to contact one or more of those to start the process.

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FinanceBuzz

12 Countries Where It's Easy to Get a Job as an American

Posted: January 3, 2024 | Last updated: January 3, 2024

Do you have the travel itch but feel you’re bound to work in the U.S.?

Remote work has become more popular and you can do it from anywhere. Many countries make it easy for you to work abroad and this may offer you ways to travel more .

Check out these countries to see if you can relocate and still earn money and travel. You may be surprised at how easy it can be to get a work visa.

Make Money: 8 things to do if you're barely scraping by financially

Portugal has seen an increase in Americans moving there and for good reason. The country has traditional charms along with a modern lifestyle that make it appealing to many expatriates.

It also has a good visa policy for workers. This allows you to stay in the country for up to nine months while working. You can also work for more than one employer as long as it’s seasonal work.

It may be an interesting change, especially if you plan to work in hospitality as there are plenty of seasonal jobs for you to choose from.

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Go down under and get a work visa while you live in Australia.

A working holiday visa for Australia allows someone between 18 and 30 years old to stay for up to 12 months. To qualify, you will need a ticket to go back home or proof that within the 12 months you can afford to buy a ticket to leave.

Like other countries on this list, jobs in the hospitality or tourism industries may be good options if you want to work abroad for a specific time.

The eastern European country of Estonia may not be as well known as other countries, but this could work to your advantage as there will be less competition for work visas.

The country will approve you for a year-long work visa as long as you have a valid work contract, proof of accommodation, and several other documents. You can stay past the 12 months if you wish, but you’ll have to apply for a temporary resident permit if you want to stay longer.

Make Money: Discover 17 legit ways to make extra cash

It can be easy to get a visa to work in Ireland, but there is one caveat: You’ll need to have a job already lined up in the country before you can get your visa.

You can get a visa for a skilled position if you have a specific skill that is considered critical to growing Ireland’s economy. You can also apply for a general employment visa that covers positions in hospitality, education, and the service industry.

With a work visa, you may be able to apply for permanent residency in Ireland if you’ve decided to live there for a longer amount of time.

The island nation of Iceland has several different types of work visas for which you may be eligible.

You can get a visa based on whether your work requires expert knowledge or there’s a shortage of workers in your field. There is also a work visa specifically for au pairs.

Iceland introduced a Digital Nomad visa in 2020 specifically for remote workers. This could be a good option if you work for a U.S. company that allows remote workers to work from another country.

Another country that could be a good option for remote workers is Cambodia.

The country has become more popular with nomad workers who want a business visa that’s easy to renew, although you do have to apply for a work permit if you plan to work in the country.

Cambodia’s visa laws have made it a haven for freelancers or nomad workers who enjoy the country’s culture and food while working abroad.

Get Out of Debt for Good: Try these 6 clever ways to crush your debt

Germany has specific criteria that you need to meet to get an employment visa, but it is possible.

First off, citizens of the U.S. do not need a visa to enter Germany. But you will need to apply for the residence permit if you are planning to work for 90 days or longer. If you already have a job lined up, you will need to have a visa which includes the work permit.

Check with the German Missions in the United States to see what can qualify you for a work visa such as your age or education level.

Singapore’s work visas can last up to six months and are easier to obtain if you’re a recent graduate or a student. You can get a visa that will allow you to be sponsored by a company so you can stay longer.

The country is used to workers applying for visas. Nearly a third of Singapore residents are expats, and English is spoken throughout the country. Jobs in information technology, education, and hospitality are in demand here.

Remote workers may want to check out Italy’s digital nomad visa, which specifically caters to workers with skill sets that allow them to work remotely.

There are some specific requirements, such as being a highly skilled worker and your employer being registered outside of Italy.

Besides the digital nomad visa, Italy offers work visas for people who are self-employed, want to start a business in Italy, or want to start an investment company.

Break the Cycle: 8 moves to escape the paycheck to paycheck grind

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has long been a hot spot for expat workers. Americans will need a work visa, called the Employee Card, in order to work for any length of time up to two years.

You may be able to enter the country on a travel visa and then apply for a work visa after you get a job there, but your easiest option is to have a position lined up already when you apply for a work-related visa.

The Czech Republic also offers a digital nomad visa for freelancers, called the Czech Republic Zivno Visa.

Slovakia may be a good place to get a work visa if you don’t want to work for an extended period of time and want to do seasonal work.

The country issues visas for 180 days at a time for seasonal work, which can be an easy option. You can also get a single permit for temporary residence and won’t need to put in a separate application for a work permit.

Denmark is looking for skilled workers so you may need more than basic job skills to get a working visa in the country.

But the country will give you a work permit for up to four years if your job falls within the country’s list of wanted professionals. 

This list includes health professionals, IT and communication technicians, scientists and engineers, and other professionals.

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Bottom line

Working abroad can be an exciting opportunity, but there are steps you must take before you leave to ensure you are allowed to work in another country. You’ll also want to know how long your visa lasts and what steps you may need to take to extend it.

Before you pick up and move, you should also get a good idea of the cost of living there. You’ll need to know how much money you need to earn to afford an apartment, food, and travel.

And since travel may be a top priority, you want to be sure you have the best travel credit cards to earn extra points and perks as you work and travel abroad.

And if you fall in love with the country where you’re working, you may find you need to research the opportunity to become a permanent resident and even retire there.

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• 7 things to do if you’re barely scraping by financially.
• Can you retire early? Take this quiz and find out.
• 12 legit ways to earn extra cash.
• 9 simple ways to make up to an extra $200/day

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Work and Travel in South America

Work in south america all year round.

Volunteer and Paid Work Opportunities in South America for Travellers A deceptively huge continent, South America is considered the holy grail for many travellers. Nature-wise, it has everything - Colombia, Ecuador and Brazil have the biodiversity of the mighty Amazon rainforest. Peru and Chile hold the Andes mountain range running along the spine of the continent. While the north is tropical, once you’re in Argentina you’ll encounter glacial lakes and bracing deserts alongside the cosmopolitan charms of Buenos Aires. Like much of Asia, South America still has the allure of being cheap for backpackers. Coupling this with the sheer vastness of the continent and its easy connection to Western markets like North America, the countries of South America are an ideal place to work and travel, especially if you are new to the lifestyle. Read our country guides to determine the perfect South American work & travel adventure for you. 1. Teach English Due to its proximity to North America, alongside a recent increase in tourism, in all of the South American countries there’s a real need for competent teachers of English. In the rural areas of countries such as Bolivia and Brazil, poverty levels are high and education levels consistently low. Although many of the teaching opportunities in places like these will be volunteer-based, you can be confident that you’re making a difference in the lives of those you teach, and not just making a profit for a company.  2. Work in an Orphanage Like in Asia, many South American countries such as Colombia and Venezuela have had turbulent histories. Unfortunately, these years of coups, guerilla warfare, and drug-based violence have left many children without parents. There are orphanages all over South America filled with kids who need help. Foreign volunteers can work in South America and do a lot of good and give you an instant connection with the local people. Orphanages may be in big cities or remote locations. Just make sure you link up with a reputable organisation. 3. Rainforest Conservation Since much of the northern half of the continent is filled with the Amazon rainforest, opportunities abound for working travellers hoping to use their skills to help conserve the “earth’s lungs.” In Guyana, for example, you can help to plant new trees and study the foliage there in an attempt to understand how scientists can improve conservation efforts. These opportunities fill up fast, so start looking early.

WORK & HOLIDAY VISA / PERMIT REQUIREMENTS FOR PAID WORK AND VOLUNTEERING IN SOUTH AMERICA

Each of the 14 countries that make up South America has its own visa policies. So below we give you a sample of what requirements you may come up against depending on the region of the world you come from. EU and UK Citizens: If you have a UK or EU passport then the situation with visas for most of the South American countries is very simple: you do not need a visa to visit any country in South America as a tourist. However, you should make sure that your passport must have 6 months validity remaining on the date of entry to each country. One notable exception is Suriname, for which you must obtain a Tourist Card from a local embassy. US Citizens: No visa required for a stay of up to 90 days in most countries, with some exceptions. A visa on arrival is required for US citizens to visit Bolivia and Paraguay, and a Tourist Card is essential for entry to Suriname. To enter Venezuela, Americans must obtain a tourist card from a Venezuelan diplomatic mission. Canadians Citizens: Generally fall under the same requirements as EU citizens, with the exception of Paraguay, where a visa is required for entry.

SEASONAL WORK IN SOUTH AMERICA

South America straddles two hemispheres and the equator, so seasonality is incredibly varied depending on how north or south you find yourself. Parts of Bolivia, Ecuador and Colombia are in the tail end of the rainy season during much of the spring, so outdoor work in late spring may consist of cleaning up and repairing infrastructure damaged during the rains. Spring is the start of the school year in deep southern countries such as Chile. The school year runs from March until December, so it’s relatively easy to teach English at this time of year; both in schools and in a private fashion.

Summer is winter in Argentina, so the colder temperatures are a great time to get away from agricultural heartlands and head to cities such as Buenos Aires. If you already have a TOEFL qualification there’s no reason why you can’t find paid work in Argentina. Universities and schools will sometimes employ foreigners on a limited basis. Summer is high tourist season in Northern countries such as Bolivia. Head here now to work in hotels, hostels, and tourist cafes.

As winter is the high season in the southern hemispheres, Work and travel opportunities in countries such as Chile reaches their lowest point at this time of year as the ski tourists have left and the backpackers have yet to arrive yet. It’s a good time to start preparing for the height of the tourist season at this time of year, however. Up in the northern countries like Venezuela, however, autumn is the start of the school year, so it’s an ideal time to secure employment. With so many teachers dropping out of the profession, it’s an ideal time for travellers to find work in major cities like Caracas.

High tourist season in the Southern hemisphere. Backpackers from all over the world will come to travel to countries like Chile. You should concentrate your efforts on finding tourism work, such as working in hostels or joining excursion companies that need an extra hand. In the north, Brazilian children are out of school and attending summer sports camps. As you would expect, football is by far the most popular sport here. For one of the best volunteering opportunities in Brazil, attend a football camp, become acquainted with the locals, and have lots of fun!

ATTITUDE TO FOREIGNERS WORKING IN SOUTH AMERICA

There are huge economic and cultural disparities between the various South American countries, and even within the countries themselves.  Brazil, for example, is the most expensive country in South America, a modern country with a modern economy. Foreigners are not looked at with a sense of wonder. But yet dire poverty is rampant in certain sections, so backpackers should educate themselves on which neighbourhoods are struggling and take care not only to look after their wallets but to be respectful and sensitive to local needs, not taking up low-skilled jobs such as cleaning when the work is desperately needed by locals. If you decide to work and travel in a country like Guyana, on the other hand, your experience will be quite different from travelling in a major country along the backpacking trail. The majority of volunteering opportunities in Guyana will bring you into contact with the locals. They will be curious about you and your homeland because most travellers who come here are often rich and travel as part of a guided tour. Backpackers don’t come here in large numbers because of how difficult it can be to get to the country at an affordable price.

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• Edited on Jun 7 2021 by

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I lost my dream job in the US because I couldn't get a work visa. In Canada, the pathway has been much smoother.

• Vaishali Gauba dreamed of being a journalist in the US but wasn't able to secure an H-1B visa. 
• Years later, Gauba secured a work visa in Canada after moving there to study. 
• She said she likes Canada's quality of life and found the visa process is friendlier to immigrants. 

This as-told-to essay is based on a transcribed conversation with Vaishali Gauba, 29, about her experience navigating the US and Canadian immigration systems. Business Insider verified her visas. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I moved to the US when I was 17, with ambitions of being a journalist.

I grew up in Gurugram, India, and moved to New Jersey in 2012 for my undergraduate degree. I studied journalism, media studies, and business management at Rutgers University.

I worked with major US news outlets during and after college and wanted to keep working in America, but couldn't secure an H-1B work visa . I returned to India feeling defeated. Five years later, I relocated to Canada .

In Canada, I found a clearer path to securing a work permit, and I'm less worried about being uprooted by the immigration system.

I interned at US media companies at university

I came to the US on an F-1 visa, which is for full-time students.

During my studies, I worked for the student newspaper, The Daily Targum, and also did news internships at CNBC, NBC, and CBS, which each lasted around four months.

I remember having to get permission from international student services and the journalism department to do the internships, as there were restrictions around working off-campus for F-1 students. The work had to be related to my field of study.

I remember feeling anxious about needing to get so many approvals to work as an international student , but thankfully, I was permitted to do the internships.

Working at big-name publications felt like a milestone, but it was also difficult to balance the internships with two college majors.

I wasn't able to secure an H-1B visa to stay in the US

I became accustomed to the reality that anything related to my professional life required a lot of paperwork. I knew that to continue working in the US, I needed to apply for optional practical training , which allows F-1 students to work for a year in a field related to their studies.

I graduated in May 2016, and after my OPT was approved, I started on the CBS Page Program, a rotational program for graduates.

I had several assignments there, including on the evening news and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. I talked with Stephen Colbert at the show's rooftop parties and saw many celebrities on the job.

But my time there was limited. The Page Program lasted a year, around the time my OPT expired. After six months on the program, I asked CBS about the possibility of sponsoring me for an H-1B visa but was told they don't offer sponsorships.

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I didn't realize this when I started working there, but I wanted the experience and to work on my OPT, so I would have done the program regardless.

I applied to other jobs, but many applications included a question about whether I'd need a visa sponsorship now or in the future. I felt that this one question was already filtering me out as a candidate and I wasn't getting called for interviews.

I spoke with two lawyers about my options. They told me about the O-1 visa for people with "extraordinary" ability in certain fields. I tried gathering references for the application, but as time went on, I felt my chances were slim.

This is partly because the lawyers shared case studies of people who received O-1 visas with me, and I felt they were more arts-orientated than journalism-orientated. I felt the lawyers weren't confident I had a good chance, so I decided not to apply.

Extended family members and lawyers suggested I continue my education to stay in the US on another F-1 visa. I eventually decided against this as I didn't think I could learn anything about news from a school program I wasn't already learning at CBS.

I went back to India feeling defeated

I started to feel lost. I remember lashing out at my dad on the phone when he suggested I come home, but in the end, I had a gut feeling that it was time to return to India, so I left the US in August 2017.

It felt like a defeat. I knew I wanted to be a journalist in America, but I couldn't do it. I'd given so much to the US in terms of time, energy, and money, and it was hard to accept that I had to give up on it because of visa stuff.

I spent the next five years in India, working in journalism before pivoting into a brand and communications position. In 2021, I began freelancing in PR and marketing strategy.

I planned on doing a master's in digital media to boost my PR career. My boyfriend at the time, who's my husband now, moved to Canada for his MBA in 2021, so I started exploring master's options there.

I've found the Canadian immigration system to be more immigrant-friendly

I came to Canada on a study permit and started my master's program at Toronto Metropolitan University in September 2022.

I applied for a work visa in September 2023 after finishing my studies. While it took a long time to get my study permit because of the backlog created by COVID-19 , the work visa process took less than a month and was fairly easy.

Graduating from my master's program made me eligible for an open work permit, which isn't tied to a specific employer. I'm self-employed as a freelancer.

Unlike the US H-1B process , I didn't need an employer to sponsor me, and there was no lottery system.

While I'm aware that some people have a hard time coming to Canada, my overall experience of Canadian immigration processes has been smooth. I feel it's more favorable to immigrants than the US processes.

I couldn't get a work visa in the US, but there was a clearer and more stable path to getting one in Canada.

When I left the US in 2017, Donald Trump had just become president. My understanding is that it's become harder to get a work visa in the US since.

My work visa expires in October 2024, and I'm open to options for settling in Canada beyond that. Moving back to India is still a small possibility as my partner, and I have family there, but I like the quality of life in Canada , and I'm less concerned about my life being uprooted here than I was in the US.

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More From Forbes

10 remote jobs that pay you $100,000+ to travel in 2024.

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Remote jobs in tech start-ups appear to be the most likely to offer a fully remote ... [+] work-from-anywhere policy, with other numerous benefits

Ever dreamed of getting paid to travel?

It's actually not a far-fetched idea. There are many jobs, from freelancing to working as an employee for companies, which are hiring right now (at the time of writing), and pay you a six-figure salary to explore the world on your own terms while delivering quality work from your location.

This is the essence of what it means to be a digital nomad.

Perhaps the question, "Ever dreamed of getting paid to travel?" should be rephrased to, "Ever heard of work-from-anywhere companies?"

Yes, they really do exist. There are at least hundreds of them...employers who are actively breaking down barriers (usually start-ups and tech-focused companies) and hiring team members from all over the globe, allowing them to live and work where the please, so long as they get the job done.

If that sounds too good to be true, consider these two current job listings as examples, and the hiring values of the companies who have listed them:

1. Remote Account Executive At Float

This role , which covers the American and APAC (Asia-Pacific) region, pays up to $150,000 inclusive of OTE (on-target earnings). The company boasts team members from around the world , from Canada, to Nigeria, to the U.S., to Australia. What's unique about Float is their hiring ethos: they take time to detail all the requirements and experience needed for the role, and they set your expectations for what you will be doing/learning in your first few months of the job. The listing then proceeds to detail what to expect as you progress and take on more responsibility.

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Another unique aspect which sets this employer apart so far as hiring is concerned, is that they showcase a video within the listing, of the hiring manager discussing the role and why it is needed. This is good for two reasons:

First, it makes the hiring manager more relatable. You're able to put a face to the name, as it were, and it disarms you as he appears to be friendly and relaxed. This is great preparation for your job interview should you be successful.

Second, the video shows the hiring manager (possibly your soon-to-be-boss) working remotely in Madeira. Whether he lives there or not is of little concern, but it is likely that he recorded the video from a café on the island, based on the background. This already sets your expectations for what it is like to work remotely in this company.

This serves to reinforce this lesson: When applying for a remote job, seek out transparency. The more a company shouts about their remote work policies from the rooftops, the better for your peace of mind.

2. Remote Full Stack Engineer At LightDash

LightDash is an opensource tech company that is remote-first. "We’re fully remote from anywhere +/- 3 hours from UK time," their website says. Additionally, to ensure that their next exceptional talent is not deterred from applying for their roles, they state that they are open to suggestions from outside these time zones.

The company touts multiple benefits in addition to their work-from-anywhere policy, such as equity, unlimited PTO (with 28 days mandated at the very least ), and a learning and development budget to help you progress your career.

With regards to pay, the salary for their full stack engineer role is set up to £110,000 (in GBP) which is roughly the equivalent of $140,000 in USD.

Companies like LightDash are role models as far as their hiring policies are concerned, because they are keen to include benefits that truly matter to most employees—such as working from any location, career progression and learning, and wellbeing through unlimited PTO.

More Remote Jobs That Pay $100,000+ While You Travel

Now that you've seen that there are employers who make it possible to work and travel, here are some other types of remote roles that pay over $100,000 on average, that allow you the opportunity to work from anywhere (granted you're with a remote-first employer like the ones listed above) and travel to your heart's content:

• Data analyst
• Data scientist
• Blockchain developer
• Cloud solutions architect
• Product manager
• UX/UI designer
• Digital marketing manager
• Cybersecurity specialist

Look out for companies who have strong personality, transparency, and are relatable, as this is a ... [+] good indicator of your future in working with them

Provided you have the necessary skills and experience, these remote jobs offer you flexibility, improved wellbeing, and the ability to make your money stretch further in another country while traveling.

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FORECAST: Two more days of intense heat to kick off the workweek

Weather headlines.

• Hottest days of the year likely Monday and Tuesday
• Storm chances increase Tuesday afternoon into Wednesday
• Cooler and less humid air returns late week

LATEST FORECAST

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE) - Any downpours around this evening will fade after sunset. Skies will be mostly clear overnight but don’t expect much relief from the heat.

Low temperatures will be stuck in the 70s Monday morning. Highs are back in the mid 90s Monday with heat index values peaking between 100 and 105 degrees during the afternoon. Remember to take care of pets and check the back seat!

Don’t count on any downpours to provide brief heat relief tomorrow. Mostly clear, warm, and muggy conditions hold tough Monday night. Expect lows in the 70s once again.

Tuesday will be just as hot as Monday even with more clouds. Scattered thunderstorms are possible in the afternoon ahead of our next front. Highs in the 90s with the heat index likely exceeding 100 degrees if you don’t encounter any downpours.

Showers and storms become much more widespread Tuesday night as the front moves closer. Heavy rain looks to be the main concern but brief gusty winds are possible. That threat will continue into Wednesday.

The latter half of the week will be refreshing! As the cold front pushes south, you’ll notice a significant drop in the humidity and cooler temperatures. Highs stay in the 80s Thursday through the upcoming weekend.

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Amid Disability, a New Lease on Working Life

Little-known social security-led program helps beneficiaries reenter job market, kick-start careers.

Sharon Jayson,

These are success stories. Marshalla Cofer has hers. So do Verna Boyd, Doug Force, Rick Marshall and Robin McCoy.

They are among hundreds of thousands of Americans with a disability who have strengthened their financial footing and regained feelings of self-worth thanks to a little-known federal program that helps participants test whether they can return to work without putting their Social Security disability benefits , or the health coverage that comes with them , at risk.

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Ticket to Work (TTW) is a free voluntary program operated by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that aims to lessen reliance on benefits for people whose work life has been interrupted by a serious illness or injury . Participants can get education, skills training, career counseling, job referrals and other services to help them reenter the workforce, hold a job or shift to another field, charting a course back to financial independence.

“I was afraid to go to work because I did not want to lose my disability,” says Cofer, 61, of Sharpsburg, Georgia, who suffered a traumatic brain injury in a 2009 bicycle accident.

An IT analyst whose job was to ensure connectivity for the 400 people at her company’s call center, Cofer went back to work after the crash but “was messing everything up.”

“I didn’t know how bad my injury was until a week and a half later,” she says.

She was placed on medical leave, but when that ended in October 2011, her doctor didn’t clear her to return to work. That’s when she applied for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), one of the two SSA-administered benefits for people sidelined from work by a medical condition. Her claim was approved in April 2013.

Cofer heard about TTW in 2021 from a state vocational services agency and contacted one of the SSA-authorized organizations that help individuals with disabilities secure employment.

“I didn’t understand what the government limitations were. It’s hard for me to process and learn new information,” she says. “They assured me they would be with me. They helped me with paperwork. I can call them, or they call me. They help keep me on track.”

Since September 2022, she has worked part-time as a wheelchair assistant at the Atlanta airport. “I literally push a wheelchair and talk to people. I don’t have to do anything on the computer,” she says. “It’s a nonstress job, compared with what I used to do.”

‘A lot of people are hanging in the balance’

Social Security administers two types of monthly payments for people with disabilities: SSDI, which is available to most workers who suffer a debilitating illness or injury, regardless of their financial situation, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a safety-net benefit for people who have a disability (or are age 65 and older) and very limited income and assets.

Because these benefits are designed to help sustain people unable to support themselves through paying work, they are subject to strict income limits. By SSA’s reckoning, if you are able to earn above a certain threshold from work, you may no longer be entitled to disability benefits.

For many people with disabilities, it can take months, even years, to secure benefits . Once they do, those payments can be a financial lifeline. The risk of jeopardizing them can create a disincentive to explore returning to the workforce, even for those who want to.

“A lot of people are hanging in the balance,” says Gary Burtless, a senior fellow emeritus in economic studies at the Brookings Institution, a nonprofit think tank in Washington, D.C. “Once they get on SSDI, they do not want to disrupt the applecart too much.”

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“Four years ago, I wanted to try working again, but I was scared if I got off it, I would never get back on it. I’ve always been a hard worker and a provider until my injury,” says Doug Force, 49.

Force went on SSDI in 2007. A few years earlier, he had been a union painter in East Peoria, Illinois, and lifting heavy paint buckets was part of the job. At age 29, with three children, he was diagnosed with a degenerative back disease. “There were times I couldn’t even walk,” he says.

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He found Ticket to Work by doing an internet search for “Is it hard to get back on disability if you try to work?” Through the program, he connected with Allsup Employment Services (AES), one of hundreds of workforce development agencies that partner with the SSA to provide vocational training and rehabilitation, career advice, job placement and workplace support to people receiving disability benefits.

TTW enrollees work with these groups to develop a plan to enter or return to the labor force. They must take steps within a set period to complete related education, training or employment goals. Those on SSDI (but not SSI) may work for up to nine months over five years and keep their benefits, regardless of how much they earn. (The SSA calls this a trial work period [TWP] .)

If a job becomes permanent and pays over the SSA income limit, their benefits end, but Social Security has an expedited process for reinstating payments if their condition forces them to back off work.

In January 2023, Force landed a job as a security guard in Dresden, Tennessee, where he and his wife had moved the previous year. Since March 2023, he’s been working full-time as a forklift operator. He credits his participation in Ticket to Work with improving not just his finances but his mental health.

“You need to feel like you’re contributing,” he says. “AES changed my life. If it wasn’t for them, I’d probably still be on disability. I got my last [benefit] check January 1 of this year.”

Careers interrupted by cancer

Robin McCoy spent more than 20 years as an IT manager in various industries until 2019, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer . She was awarded SSDI in 2020. When she felt well enough to look for work again, she found her employment gap was a problem.

“You say ‘cancer’ and they say, ‘No, thank you,’ ” says McCoy, 60, of Southfield, Michigan, a Detroit suburb.

She was contacted by AES in October 2021 (the SSA shares lists of qualifying beneficiaries with Ticket to Work partner agencies to do outreach and recruit for the program). “I was in the car. It was a rainy day,” she recalls.

While she was “gung ho to go back to work,” McCoy says, she told AES she wasn’t interested in another IT position. “I was done with searching and in and out of treatment. Me working for someone else was not a good fit.”

Before her cancer diagnosis, she was already trying to pivot to a new career. She had earned a master’s in psychology and was working part-time as a therapist and counselor while studying for her Ph.D. (She earned it in 2023.) McCoy shared this with her AES case manager, and the agency “offered me support so I could work for myself.” She’s now a full-time business owner, supervising a team of mental health professionals at her practice in Southfield.

Verna Boyd encountered similar hurdles when she sought to get back to work after surviving breast cancer. Two years after her March 2021 diagnosis and seven months after getting on SSDI, she was pronounced cancer-free. A registered nurse in the Raleigh, North Carolina, area with more than two decades of experience and a community-service award to her credit, she started applying for hospital jobs.

She got a few interviews and “discussed things with them,” including her health, but nothing came of it. “I ended up with cancer,” says Boyd, 56. “I never thought I would have had issues going back to work.”

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After she found out about Ticket to Work, “it all came together,” she says. “Next thing I know I was on the phone, and they said, ‘You can work, and we’ll help you.’ ” She enrolled with an agency that was “able to help me get set up with different jobs. I told them to see what I can do. It was like a team effort.”

Boyd got a job in May 2023 as a full-time traveling nurse at Eastern Carolina University Hospital. That assignment recently ended, but Boyd says she is waiting on a new post expected to start this summer.

‘It’s all about testing the waters’

AES is an Employment Network (EN), one of two primary types of providers that partner with the SSA on Ticket to Work. ENs can be private employers, nonprofit organizations, government agencies or other entities that deliver employment training and services. There are currently 386 ENs involved in Ticket to Work — 93 that operate nationally (like AES) and 293 that provide local services.

The other major type is a Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency. These state-level offices typically offer more intensive training, education, career counseling and placement help for people whose disabilities require more significant services and accommodations for them to work. Ticket to Work participants may work with an EN, a VR or both.

“It’s all about testing the waters,” says Diane Winiarski, director of Belleville, Illinois–based AES. “The beneficiaries I see have a feeling of accomplishment and greater self-worth that they’re finally self-sufficient and [feel like], ‘I’m contributing back.’ ”

According to SSA data, about 392,000 people participated in Ticket to Work in 2023, and the program has served more than 1.7 million beneficiaries since it launched in 2002. That’s a lot of people ushered back into the labor force and onto a firmer financial footing, but it represents a fraction of disability beneficiaries, who numbered nearly 11.4 million in May 2024.

Many are genuinely unable to do more than token work due to their condition, but some may simply be unaware of their options. A 2015 Social Security survey on disability beneficiaries’ views on employment, the most such recent data available, found that 37 percent had a goal of returning to work but only 27 percent knew about Ticket to Work.

Numbers like that have officials involved in the program putting greater focus on spreading the word.

“We have to be more directly connected and be more focused on where people with disabilities are, rather than having them find us and come to us,” says Danté Allen, commissioner of the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA), an arm of the U.S. Department of Education that oversees the country’s 78 VR agencies.

Allen — a self-described VR alumnus who was born with spina bifida — says that means getting the message out about Ticket to Work to RSA partners such as school systems, state workforce agencies and Centers for Independent Living (CILs), federally funded programs that help people with disabilities remain in their communities.

For Rick Marshall, discovering TTW helped him feel hopeful after six years on disability benefits.

“They made me see that I can still do things I didn’t know I could do,” says Marshall, 59, of Glendale, Arizona, who has degenerative disc disease. He used to work as a heavy structural fabricator and welder, a physically demanding job involving large, heavy tools. He started having back and neck injuries in late 2013 and was approved for disability benefits in 2015.

By 2021, he felt ready to work again. After enrolling in TTW, he got part-time seasonal employment as an usher at local football stadiums. In March 2022, he started a full-time job as a warehouse associate, working the overnight shift so he can go to school during the day at Arizona State University, where he’s studying for a degree in social work.

“I still have a lot to give back,” Marshall says.

Sharon Jayson is a contributing writer who covers aging, family, health care and retirement. She previously worked for USA Today  and the  Austin American-Statesman , and she also has written for Kaiser Health News, Time  magazine and  The Washington Post .

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Biden to address the nation Sunday night after Trump assassination attempt: Live updates

BETHEL PARK, Pennsylvania – Former President Donald Trump said Sunday that "God alone" had spared him from a brazen assassination attempt , an act of political violence the likes of which America had not seen since an attack on President Ronald Reagan's life 43 years ago.

Trump, who was recovering after he was injured in the right ear when a sniper opened fire Saturday evening, vowed to press on with this week's GOP convention in Milwaukee.

One spectator was killed and two others were critically injured when bullets rained down from an AR-15-style rifle from a rooftop about 400 feet outside Trump's campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania.

"Our love goes out to the other victims and their families," Trump said in a statement on Truth Social on Sunday morning. "We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed."

Trump added later that he would travel to Milwaukee for Monday's opening of the Republican convention.

President Joe Biden called for national unity at a short White House news conference Sunday and said he spoke with Trump briefly on Saturday night and, "I'm sincerely grateful that he's doing well and recovering." Biden also said he would address the nation from the Oval Office on Sunday night.

The FBI identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks , 20, of Bethel Park, outside Pittsburgh. Crooks was killed by Secret Service agents moments after gunfire erupted at the former president's rally.

Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania: Trump wounded in assassination attempt. Biden calls it 'sick': Here's what we know

Developments:

∎ House Speaker Mike Johnson said on the "TODAY" show Sunday that the country has to "turn the temperature down" in the political discourse, and he promised Congress will do a full investigation of the incident "to determine where there were lapses in security and anything else that the American people need to know."

∎ The gunman's father, Matthew Crooks, told CNN Saturday evening that he was trying to figure out "what the hell is going on" and would "wait until I talk to law enforcement" before sharing details about his son.

∎ The gunman had explosive devices in his car, the Wall Street Journal reported . Police received multiple reports of suspicious packages near where the shooter was, officials said, according to the report. An Allegheny County Bomb Squad vehicle entered the area cordoned off by police Sunday morning.

∎ Biden has canceled a trip to Austin, Texas, planned for Monday. The White House said it will reschedule the visit, in which Biden was prepared to give a speech on civil rights and democracy at the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.

∎ U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland canceled travel plans for this week to stay in Washington, D.C., and "closely monitor the investigation" into the assassination attempt, Justice Department Director of Public Affairs Xochitl Hinojosa said in a statement Sunday.

Biden: 'We must unite as a nation' after assassination attempt

Biden called Sunday for unity across the country following the assassination attempt on Trump.

"Unity is the most elusive goal of all, but nothing is more important than that right now," Biden said from the Roosevelt Room at the White House, noting he had "a short but good conversation" with Trump on Saturday night. 

Biden said he will address the nation from the Oval Office later Sunday and speak about how we "must unite as one nation to demonstrate who we are."

In the Situation Room, Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed by Homeland Security and law enforcement officials earlier Sunday. 

In his brief news conference, Biden condemned the violence on his political rival, saying: "An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation, everything. It's not who we are as a nation, it's not American."

− Rebecca Morin

Trump heads to convention in Milwaukee

A day after being the subject of an assassination attempt, Trump headed for Milwaukee on Sunday for the Republican convention.

"Based on yesterday’s terrible events, I was going to delay my trip to Wisconsin, and The Republican National Convention, by two days, but have just decided that I cannot allow a 'shooter,' or potential assassin, to force change to scheduling, or anything else," Trump said on his Truth Social account.

Trump, who spent Saturday night at his Bedminster, New Jersey, home, later added: "Therefore, I will be leaving for Milwaukee, as scheduled, at 3:30 P.M. TODAY. Thank you! DJT''

− David Jackson

Victims of rally shooting identified

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro identified the man killed in the shooting at Trump's Butler rally as Corey Comperatore. Shapiro said he spoke with Comperatore’s family, who described him as a father of two girls, a firefighter, a faithful churchgoer and an avid supporter of the former president.

"Corey died a hero," Shapiro said. "Corey dove on his family to protect them last night at this rally. Corey was the very best of us. May his memory be a blessing." 

Pennsylvania State Police identified the other two attendees who were shot at the rally as state residents David Dutch, 57, of New Kensington, and James Copenhaver, 74, of Moon Township. Both are hospitalized and listed in stable condition. Shapiro said he spoke with the family of one victim and received a message from the other.

Flags will be flown at half-staff in memory of Compertore, Shapiro said. He added that he spoke with members of Trump’s team and got a call from Biden, whom he lauded for reaching out to Trump.

"All leaders need to take down the temperature and rise above the hateful rhetoric that exists in search of a better, brighter future for this nation," Shapiro said.

− Sheridan Hendrix

AG Merrick Garland cancels trip to monitor investigation

U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland canceled travel plans for this week to stay in Washington, D.C., and "closely monitor the investigation" into the assassination attempt against Trump, Justice Department Director of Public Affairs Xochitl Hinojosa said in a statement Sunday.

Garland planned to go to Nevada, Idaho, Utah, and Kansas to meet with local law enforcement and speak at the National Bar Association, Hinojosa added. Garland met with Justice Department personnel about the attack this morning.

– Aysha Bagchi

Neighbors who knew Crooks stunned by the shooting

Jason Kohler attended Bethel Park High School with Crooks and said he remembers the 20-year-old sat alone at lunch and was "bullied every day." Kids picked on Crooks for wearing camouflage to class and his quiet demeanor, Kohler, 21, said.Since hearing Crooks has been named as the shooter, Kohler has been speaking with classmates who knew him, most of whom are stunned by the news."It’s really hard to comprehend," he said.

In Bethel Park, Dean Sierka, 52, said he has known Crooks and his parents for years.Neighbors separated by only a few houses, Sierka’s daughter attended elementary, middle, and high school with Crooks and remembers him as quiet and shy. Sierka and his daughter Lily said they would see Crooks at least once a week, often when Crooks was walking to work."You wouldn’t have expected this," Sierka told USA TODAY. "The parents and the family are all really nice people."“It’s crazy,” he said.

− Christopher Cann

What we know about the weapon used by the shooter

Joseph Price, special agent in charge of the ATF in Pittsburgh, said the weapon used by the shooter was a rifle.“It was nothing special,” he said in an interview in the parking lot of the Butler Township Municipal Building.Price said investigators are still determining how many shots the shooter fired. He said three male spectators were shot; one died and two were critically injured.− Stephanie Warsmith 

White House says Biden call with Trump 'respectful'

The president spoke with Trump on Saturday night after Trump was targeted by a sniper at a rally in Pennsylvania

Biden told reporters when he initially tried to call Trump, the former president was with his doctors. A White House official said later Saturday that Biden had spoken with Trump; Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Bob Dandoy, the mayor of Butler, Pennsylvania, where the rally was held.

Biden’s phone call Saturday night with Trump was "good, respectful and brief," according to a White House official who spoke on the condition of anonymity saying it was a private discussion.

– Michael Collins and Joey Garrison

'Boom boom boom, then screams': Neighbors watched from nearby homes

The streets around the Butler fairgrounds were bustling Sunday morning with law enforcers blocking entry to the site of the shooting. Pat English told USA TODAY he was at the Saturday rally but left when his grandson got overheated.

“We watched it from my deck,” English said, pointing to his backyard that borders the fairgrounds. “I heard a boom boom boom and then screams. I could see people running and the police run in.”A few doors down, Lonnie and Kelli Rensel thought they heard fireworks. But then came the screams. “That’s when we knew something was wrong,” Kelli Rensel said.Lonnie Rensel, who viewed the rally from his childhood home that borders the grounds, saw a cloud of dust rise from the site.“A stray bullet must have hit a the speakers hanging by a lift because they collapsed,” he said.

−Bryce Buyakie

Melania Trump urges Americans to 'ascend above the hate'

Former first lady Melania Trump called on Americans in a statement Sunday to “ascend above the hate, the vitriol, and the simple-minded ideas that ignite violence” after an assassination attempt on her husband.

Melania Trump thanked the Secret Service agents for protecting the former president and offered her sincerest sympathy to the victims who were shot at the rally.

“When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and Barron's life, were on the brink of devastating change,” she wrote in a statement.

The former first lady went on to criticize the “monster” who attempted the assassination, adding that Donald Trump has been labeled “an inhuman political machine.”

“A monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donald's passion - his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration,” Melania Trump wrote. “The core facets of my husband's life - his human side - were buried below the political machine. Donald, the generous and caring man who I have been with through the best of times and the worst of times.”

Trump called on Americans to transcend politics and emphasized that "love, compassion, kindness and empathy are necessities."

"This morning, ascend above the hate, the vitriol, and the simple-minded ideas that ignite violence," she said. "We all want a world where respect is paramount, family is first, and love transcends."

– Rebecca Morin

Maps, graphics show how the Trump shooting unfolded

As the investigation into the shooting at Trump’s rally continues, maps, graphics and a timeline by USA TODAY show how the incident unfolded.

At 6:11 p.m. while Trump is speaking, multiple shots are fired towards the stage, and just a minute later, Secret Service agents jump on top of the former president and escort him off stage. At 6:14 p.m., his motorcade leaves the fairgrounds.

Explore the full timeline and graphics here.

− Sudiksha Kochi

Officials: Trump campaign to tighten security

Top officials at the Donald Trump campaign told staff members that they are re-doubling security measures at their offices in light of Saturday's assassination attempt.

“We are enhancing the armed security presence with 24/7 officers on-site," said a staff memo signed by senior campaign officials Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita. "Additional assessments will be in place. Our highest priority is to keep all of you on this staff safe."

The officials urged employees to stay away from offices in Washington, D.C., and West Palm Beach, Fla., on Sunday "as we assess both locations."

Wiles and LaCivita also asked campaign employees not to comment on Saturday's shooting. "We condemn all forms of violence," they said, "and will not tolerate dangerous rhetoric on social media."

The memo also said the Republican convention would go on as scheduled.

Trump's top finance person launches GoFundMe for rally shooting victims

A high-profile political fundraiser from Florida has launched a "President Trump Authorized" GoFundMe aiming to raise $1 million for those "wounded or killed" in  Saturday's attempt on the former president's life .

Meredith O'Rourke of Tallahassee, also Trump's top finance person, is listed as the organizer of the  online fundraiser , which as of 10 a.m. Sunday listed over $600,000 in donations, including $50,000 from musician Kid Rock, a major Trump backer.

Other top donations so far include $30,000 from former Republican challenger Vivek Ramaswamy and $25,000 from investor and entrepreneur John Shahidi, a Southern California native behind several companies, among them  Shots Studios ,  described  as "an entertainment company that uses data to create the next digital stars."

Also donating were conservative commentator Ben Shapiro ($15,000),  Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson  ($10,000) and Trump's daughter Ivanka and husband Jared Kushner ($10,000).

− Jim Rosica

Secret Service pushed Trump to the stage, eyewitness says

Erin Autenreith, who sat in the middle of the front row at Trump’s rally, said on the TODAY show Sunday that she heard “pop, pop, pop” sounds and watched as Secret Service men quickly pushed the former president down on stage for a couple of minutes.

“They started saying ‘Clear right, clear left. OK on three stand him up.’ So one, two, three - they stood him up. He was facing me and his eyes were bright. I knew that he was OK. But there was a little bit of blood coming,” Autenreith said.

She said the interesting part was that “nobody in that first row even took cover. It seemed everybody was just - wanted to protect the president and I think we all knew that that's what the shooter was after.”

−Sudiksha Kochi

Texas Rep. Ronny Jackson says nephew injured at Trump rally

Rep. Ronny Jackson, R-Texas, said Saturday on X, formerly Twitter, that his nephew was among those injured at Trump’s rally in Butler.

“My family was sitting in the front, near where the President was speaking. They heard shots ringing out — my nephew then realized he had blood on his neck and something had grazed and cut his neck,” he wrote.

On Fox News Saturday, Jackson told host Sean Hannity that a bullet had grazed his nephew’s neck. He noted on X that his nephew is doing well and that his injury was not serious. 

“He was treated by the providers in the medical tent. Thank you to all those that have reached out to check on him,” Jackson wrote.

Trump urges supporters to 'stay united'

Trump told supporters Sunday that he would still attend this week's Republican convention in Milwaukee. The shooting will almost certainly lead to a drastic ramp-up in security for the more than 50,000 GOP politicians, delegates, and media personnel expected to flow into Milwaukee for the convention over the next 36 hours.

"Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening," Trump said in an early morning post on Truth Social.

Trump added that "we will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness." Urging people to stay united and to "show our True Character as Americans," Trump said:  "I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin."

− David Jackson, Sarah D. Wire, Sam Woodward, and Alison Dirr

No word on shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks' motive

Little is known about Crooks beyond the fact that he lived in a home with his parents in Bethel Park.

Crooks was 20 years old, registered as a Republican, and had an active voting status, meaning he had voted in recent elections. He appears to have attended Bethel Park High School, graduating in 2022.

Crooks carried no identification and his body had to be identified using other techniques, said Kevin Rojek, FBI special agent in charge, at the late-night news conference in Butler. The methods included DNA and biometric confirmation, Rojek said.

Crooks was killed by law enforcement officials moments after opening fire.

Political rally shooter identified: Thomas Matthew Crooks identified as Trump shooter at Pennsylvania political rally

'It feels like something out of a movie'

The streets surrounding Crooks’ home were swarming with reporters and curious locals who ventured out to get a look at the scene and sizable police presence early Sunday morning. The home sits along a winding suburban road in Bethel Park, about 42 miles south of Butler.

Cathy Caplan, 45, extended her morning walk about a quarter mile to glimpse what was happening outside Crooks’ home.“It came on the morning news and I was like ‘I know that street,’” she said.The local school district employee said she was “still in disbelief” about the shooting and that “it feels like something out of a movie.”

Wes Morgan and his four children were at Panera Bread on Sunday morning when he found out he lived within a mile of Crooks. After breakfast, Morgan and the kids, ages 6-9, parked among dozens of reporters and other residents and walked up to the police perimeter, around the corner from Crooks’ home.It was rare in this sleepy suburb of Bethel Park to have any sustained and visible police presence, he said. The 42-year-old said he hopes the investigation progresses smoothly so the neighborhood can return to normal“We’ve never had anything even close to this before,” Morgan said. “We ride bikes down this road all the time, and to see this today … it’s just a shame.”

'It's insanity that anyone would do this'

Around 1:30 a.m. Sunday, dozens of law enforcement vehicles were stationed outside Crooks' residence listed on his voter registration record. Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives were on the scene and a bomb squad was at the residence.

Neighbors standing outside the home where the gunman lived said they were in disbelief. Dan Maloney, 30, said he saw the shooter’s name on social media and then discovered he lived down the road.

“It’s insanity that anyone would do this,” Maloney said, adding that he at one point had planned on attending the rally.

Crooks is registered to vote as a Republican in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, according to county voter records. His voter registration status has been active since 2021.

Scott Graham, who lives in the Bethel Park neighborhood, was riding his bike Sunday morning. He said he doesn’t know the shooter but was shaken by the incident. “It hits so close to home. I had two kids who graduated from Bethel Park High School. My kids graduated in 2016 and 2018.”

− Christopher Cann, Aysha Bagchi , Andrew Dolph

How the chaotic scene erupted: Video captures moment when Trump reportedly shot on stage at rally

Attack harkens back to dark years of violence

The most recent attempt on a presidential candidate was on March 30, 1981, when Republican President Ronald Reagan was shot by  John Hinckley Jr.  after a speaking engagement just two months after taking office. The then 70-year-old was seriously injured and underwent emergency surgery before being released after almost two weeks in the hospital.

Reagan suffered a punctured lung, a broken rib, and internal bleeding.

On June 5, 1968, the younger brother of President John F. Kennedy, Senator  Robert F. Kennedy , D-N.Y., was shot and killed by a Palestinian activist for his support of Israel during the Israeli-Arab conflict. Kennedy was campaigning in California for the presidency and lived just one day after being hit twice, once in the neck and the armpit. He was 42.

President John F. Kennedy  was riding in a motorcade with First Lady Jackie Kennedy in downtown Dallas on November 22, 1963, when he was shot in the neck and head by Lee Harvey Oswald. The 46-year-old had yet to announce his re-election campaign and was riding with then-Texas Democratic Gov. John Connally, who also was shot.

Kennedy was pronounced dead and Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in as the 36th president.

−Elizabeth Weise

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Ossipee Valley Fair, Moxie Festival and more happening this weekend

The Maine International Film Festival starts Friday in Waterville.

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Now that we’re all comfortably settled into the rhythm of summer, let’s do a classic summer thing and go to a fair!

Jeremy Schoff of York leads his oxen, Pete and Red, during the ox pull on Thursday at the Ossippe Valley Fair in 2021. Ben McCanna/Staff Photographer

The Ossipee Valley Fair starts today and runs through Sunday. We especially love the Farmer Olympics because the hay bale toss and blind wheelbarrow obstacle course competition is fierce. Ray Routhier has details about Ossipee Valley and several others fairs happening this summer in Bangor, Waterville and Acton, among other locales.

Go a little farther afield and find a Maine summer fair for you

Aretha Aoki & Ryan MacDonald (right, in bear suit) performing IzumonookunI (stet capital letter at the end). Aretha Aoki & Ryan MacDonald will be bringing this dance program to the Bates Dance Festival July 12 and 14, 2024 at the Schaeffer Theatre on the Bates College campus in Lewiston, Maine. Photo by Colin Kelly

Another summer tradition is the Bates Dates Festival in Lewiston . Performances are underway, and arts writer Megan Gray has the scoop on “IzumonookunI” by Aretha Aoki and Ryan MacDonald. See it tonight and Saturday.

Topsham couple’s Bates Dance Festival performance is inspired by kabuki, punk rock and their 7-year-old

Big Yellow Taxi. Photo by Julian Parker Burns

I’m headed to One Longfellow Square on Friday night to see the Massachusetts-based Joni Mitchell tribute band Big Yellow Taxi. They’ll be playing Mitchell’s 1974 album “Court and Spark,” along with other tunes.

Tribute to Joni Mitchell celebrates 50 years of ‘Court and Spark’

“3 Vendors of Ipanema” is directed by Lewiston native Jonathan S. Lee. Courtesy of JSL Films

We weren’t kidding when we said there’s a lot going on right now. The 27th annual Maine International Film Festival starts on Friday and runs through July 21 in Waterville. Our film writer, Dennis Perkins, offers up his picks for 12 screenings worth your while.

12 hidden gems of this year’s Maine International Film Festival

Spectators watching a previous year’s Moxie Festival Parade in Lisbon Falls. Carl D. Walsh/Staff Photographer

Our weekly events roundup includes the East Bayside block party in Portland and the Moxie Festival in Lisbon Falls. Should you make it to the festival on Saturday, don’t miss “American Idol” alum Julia Gagnon singing at 1:30 p.m.

Kennebunks garden tour, Moxie Festival, East Bayside block party

One with Everything from Gunnar’s Icelandic Hot Dogs. Photo by Ray Routhier

Need a break from standard-issue hot dogs? We love them too, but sometimes a new twist is just what your taste buds need. Ray Routhier stopped by Gunnar’s Icelandic Hot Dogs cart . If you like what you read, you can find it parked from 4-9 p.m. Thursday at Apres in Portland, then on the roof of Bayside Bowl on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Sick of red snappers? Try an Icelandic hot dog instead

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