work travel usa

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Summer Work Travel

College and University students enrolled full time and pursuing studies at post-secondary accredited academic institutions located outside the United States come to the United States to share their culture and ideas with people of the United States through temporary work and travel opportunities.

Participants

Summer work travel students must be:.

• Sufficiently proficient in English to successfully interact in an English speaking environment;
• Post-secondary school students enrolled in and actively pursuing a degree or other full-time course of study at an accredited classroom based, post-secondary educational institution outside the United States;
• Have successfully completed at least one semester or equivalent of post-secondary academic study; and
• Pre-placed in a job prior to entry unless from a visa waiver country.

The Summer Work Travel program provides foreign students with an opportunity to live and work in the United States during their summer vacation from college or university to experience and to be exposed to the people and way of life in the United States.

More information

Summer work travel 2024 season program dates by country, summer work travel community support groups.

Find SWT community support groups near you

Map of Summer Work Travel Participants

View the number and locations of Summer Work Travel participants across the U.S.

Readmittance, Program Length, and Returning Home

• Readmittance: Participants can be admitted to the program more than once;
• Program Length: The maximum length of the program is four months; and
• Returning Home: Students must return to their home country prior to the start date of their university or college.

Program Exclusions

Sponsors must not place participants:

• In positions that could bring notoriety or disrepute to the Exchange Visitor Program;
• In sales positions that require participants to purchase inventory that they must sell in order to support themselves;
• In domestic help positions in private homes (e.g., child care, elder care, gardener, chauffeur);
• As pedicab or rolling chair drivers or operators;
• As operators or drivers of vehicles or vessels for which drivers’ licenses are required regardless of whether they carry passengers or not;
• In positions related to clinical care that involves patient contact;
• In any position in the adult entertainment industry (including, but not limited to jobs with escort services, adult book/video stores, and strip clubs);
• In positions requiring work hours that fall predominantly between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am;
• In positions declared hazardous to youth by the Secretary of Labor at Subpart E of 29 CFR part 570;
• In positions that require sustained physical contact with other people and/or adherence to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Universal Blood and Body Fluid Precautions guidelines (e.g., body piercing, tattooing, massage, manicure);
• In positions that are substantially commission-based and thus do not guarantee that participants will be paid minimum wage in accordance with federal and state standards;
• In positions involved in gaming and gambling that include direct participation in wagering and/or betting;
• In positions in chemical pest control, warehousing, catalogue/online order distribution centers;
• In positions with traveling fairs or itinerant concessionaires;
• In jobs that do not allow participants to work alongside U.S. citizens and interact regularly with U.S. citizens and to experience U.S. culture during the workday portion of their Summer Work Travel programs;
• With employers that fill non-seasonal or non-temporary job openings with exchange visitors with staggered vacation schedules;
• In positions that require licensing;
• In positions for which there is another specific J visa category (e.g., Camp Counselor, Trainee, Intern);
• Participants must be employees of and paid by the staffing agencies
• Staffing agencies must provide full-time, primary, on-site supervision of the participants
• Staffing agencies must effectively control the work sites, e.g., have hands-on management responsibility for the participants
• After November 1, 2012, in positions in the North American Industry Classification System’s (NAICS) Goods-Producing Industries occupational categories industry sectors 11, 21, 23, 31-33 numbers (set forth at http://www.bls.gov/iag/tgs/iag_index_naics.htm ).

Sponsors must also:

• Use extra caution when placing students in positions at employers in lines of business that are frequently associated with trafficking persons (e.g., modeling agencies, housekeeping, janitorial services);
• Consider the availability of suitable, affordable housing (e.g., that meets local codes and ordinances) and reliable, affordable, and convenient transportation to and from work when making job placements;
• Actively and immediately assist participants with arranging appropriate housing and transportation, if employers do not provide or arrange housing and/or transportation, or if participants decline employer-provided housing or transportation;
• The number of job placements available with host employers
• That host employers will not displace domestic U.S. workers at worksites where they will place program participants
• That host employers have not experienced layoffs in the past 120 days and do not have workers on lockout or on strike

Sponsors may place participants only in jobs that:

• Are seasonal or temporary;
• Provide opportunities for regular communication and interaction with U.S. citizens and allow participants to experience U.S. culture.

Report Abuse or Exploitation

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Summer Work Travel Resources

Events SWT Participant Map Community Support Groups Strengthening and Reforming the SWT Program SWT Monitoring Report

Program Sponsors

Sponsors are required to:.

• A copy of the Department of State Summer Work Travel Program Brochure;
• The Department of State’s toll-free emergency hotline telephone number;
• The sponsor’s 24/7 immediate contact telephone number;
• Information advising participants of their obligation to notify their sponsor when they arrive in the United States and to provide information of any change in jobs or residence; and
• Information concerning any contractual obligations related to participants’ acceptance of paid employment in the United States, if pre-arranged.
• Ensure that participants entering the United States without prearranged employment have sufficient financial resources to support themselves during their search for employment;
• Provide such participants with information on how to seek employment and secure lodging in the United States before they depart their home countries; and
• Provide participants with a job directory that includes at least as many job listings as the number of participants in their program who are entering the United States without prearranged employment.
• Sponsors must undertake reasonable efforts to secure suitable employment for participants unable to find jobs on their own after one week;
• Sponsors must inform program participants of Federal Minimum Wage requirements and ensure that, at a minimum, participants are compensated at the prevailing local wage, which must meet the higher of either the applicable state or the Federal minimum wage requirement, including payment for overtime in accordance with state-specific employment; and
• Sponsors must maintain, at a minimum, a monthly schedule of personal contact with the program participants (in-person, by telephone or via-electronic mail), document such contact, and ensure that issues affecting the health, safety and welfare of participants are addressed immediately.

2024 Program Date Chart

2024 Program Date Chart (PDF)

• Summer Work Travel 2024 Season Program Dates by Country (PDF)

Host employers are required to:

• Provide participants the number of hours of paid employment per week as identified on the job offer and agreed to when the sponsor vetted the jobs;
• Pay those participants eligible for overtime worked in accordance with applicable state or federal law;
• Notify sponsors promptly when participants arrive at the work site and begins their programs; when there are any changes or deviations in the job placements during the participants’ programs; when participants are not meeting the requirements of job placements; or when participants leave their position ahead of their planned departure; and
• Contact sponsors immediately in the event of any emergency involving participants or any situation that impacts the health, safety or welfare of participants.

“As an employer of international kids, keep your door open and be proactive in solving their issues.” 

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SUMMER W&T USA

CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS

WHAT MAKES US SPECIAL

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

The program price includes health insurance for the fifth month

Payment is possible in five installments, the last one you pay after getting the visa

Possibility to attend the world recognized course in catering SERVSAFE (www.servsafe.com)

Free English language course with native speaker!

Job fairs and live interviews with employers!

Over 100 authentic student experience videos!

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

See the necessary documentation

JOB LOCATIONS

See the full offer of jobs across the USA

For more student experiences visit

WORK AND TRAVEL GROUP APP

Find fellow travelers!

START YOUR ADVENTURE TODAY

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Work & Travel USA

• Program Overview
• Duration of Program
• Eligibility Requirements
• When Is the Program Available?

The program is designed so that overseas students can become more than tourists, experiencing life in the U.S. first-hand by working alongside U.S. citizens in temporary employment. Not only does this unique opportunity allow for a genuine “U.S. experience,” it helps cover travel expenses!

For a time, the program was offered only in European and Central/South American countries and was introduced in Asia only in the 1990s to countries such as Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand. In Singapore, it officially took root in November 2000 and the program is available now in Malaysia, Australia, and Indonesia as well. A pioneer group of 30 students from Singapore embarked on this adventure in May 2001 through Speedwing and hundreds of other countries' students have participated in this program each year ever since.

Students on the program are employed in summer jobs in famous locations like amusement parks Cedar Point and Six Flags and national parks Yellowstone and Grand Canyon. Upon fulfilling their work agreement, they get to travel around the USA within a stipulated period as part of the program. In this way, they have in many seasons of the program formed meaningful friendships with people from many countries, acquired overseas work experience, and simply gained great memories.

This program is not for students to gain practical training, apply classroom knowledge, complete compulsory work attachment/internship programs unless otherwise stated by their institutions, or seek permanent work opportunities or long-term career in the USA. At the end of the program, all students must return to the country in which they are studying.

• Minimum employment period is 2 to 3 months. Maximum is 4 months.
• Duration of stay in the USA can be up to 5 months (maximum 4 months of employment followed by an optional maximum 30 days of travel within the US).
• Legal work document and visa are generally issued for only the work duration agreed between each participant and the employer. Participants cannot extend work duration when they are already in the USA.
• Participants who are required to return to school can only remain in the USA on the program until the last day of their school vacation and must return in time to start the new semester.
• be at least 18 and not more than 30 years of age
• be a full-time tertiary student in your local university with official semester break OR a final year, final semester student graduating from a full-time course
• Undergo an interview with secure job offer before you can be accepted on the program

Summer Intake

This program is offered in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

In Singapore, Speedwing usually commences recruitment in August/September and organizes a recruitment roadshow in October/November for the program in the following summer.

From 2013 onward, Singapore participants who embark on the Summer Work & Travel USA will have to follow the set date given. No employment can start earlier or end later than this range: May 01 – August 31 (not May 15, effective 2016).

For Malaysia and Indonesia, applications usually commence in October/November with the recruitment roadshow in January/February for the program in the following summer. Participating employers will interview interested candidates at recruitment roadshows (Singapore and Malaysia mostly) or online hiring via SKYPE or Zoom.

From 2013 onward, Malaysia participants who embark on the Summer Work & Travel USA will have to follow the set date given. No employment can start earlier or end later than this range: May 25 – September 15 (not May 15, effective 2016)

Winter Intake This program applies to Malaysia and Australia.

The winter recruitment begins in June/July for one to depart in November/December the same year.

From 2013 onward, Malaysia participants who embark on the Winter Work & Travel USA will have to follow the set date given. No employment can start earlier or end later than this range: November 25 – March 15 (not November 15, effective 2016).

Click here to find out the set dates given by the US Department of State for each country.

Work & Travel USA

Our work & travel program in the united states.

The Intrax Work Travel USA program gives you the opportunity to discover the United States from a local perspective. Don’t just travel as a tourist during your summer vacation, experience the American way of life and its rich culture firsthand as you work, live and travel alongside locals.

This is a unique opportunity for you to gain international work experience which you can include on your CV and also help cover some of your travel expenses. Create exciting new memories, learn the US culture, establish global long-lasting friendships, and improve your English skills for up to four months while you are on the program!

Let Intrax help you achieve this unique hands-on cultural and travel experience. As an official sponsor of the J1 visa program designated by the US Department of State for more than 25 years, we have worked with over 125,000 Work Travel participants from over 35 countries.

On this website you will find all necessary information and documentation about the program.

Why Intrax ?

Founded more than 30 years ago, Intrax is dedicated to fostering and advocating cultural exchange. Whether you already know exactly what you want to do with your career, looking to develop new skills, or seeking exciting cultural experiences, we can help you.

We operate in more than 100 countries and have welcomed over 350,000 participants into our various programs. We have created a reputation for quality programs, outstanding customer service with a central focus on our participants and their experience.

Experience the American Way of Life! Work with locals and travel throughout the USA.

Find out the prices for our two placement options as well as the included services.

Some eligibility criteria need to be fulfilled to participate in the Intrax Work Travel program.

Start your application!

Apply for the Intrax Work Travel program and experience the true American culture. This program allows you to earn money while also improving your english skills. Start your adventure with us.

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• Non-U.S. Citizens
• U.S. Citizens

J-1 Visa Summer Work Travel Program

• At-a-Glance

College and University students enrolled full time and pursuing studies at post-secondary accredited academic institutions located outside the United States come to the United States to share their culture and ideas with people of the United States through temporary work and travel opportunities.

The Summer Work Travel program provides foreign students with an opportunity to live and work in the United States during their summer vacation from college or university to experience and to be exposed to the people and way of life in the United States.

Program Length

Eligibility and application overview.

• Sufficiently proficient in English to successfully interact in an English speaking environment;
• Post-secondary school students enrolled in and actively pursuing a degree or other full-time course of study at an accredited classroom based, post-secondary educational institution outside the United States;
• Have successfully completed at least one semester or equivalent of post-secondary academic study; and
• Pre-placed in a job prior to entry unless from a visa waiver country.

Participants must first find a  Summer Work Travel Designated Sponsor .

Visit the   J1Visa website  for information on how to apply.  

Program Profile

Related programs, find more programs, recently viewed programs, search our exchange programs, economic impact in u.s.a..

Find out the impact of ECA exchange programs and initiatives in each U.S. state.

Work and Travel USA

International Cultural Exchange Program

What is Work&Travel Program?

The Summer Work Travel program provides foreign students with an opportunity to live and work in the United States during their summer vacation from college or university to experience and to be exposed to the people and way of life in the United States

Work&Travel Participant Map

We are creating interactive map for Work&Travel Students. You can find Employer Reviews, Whatsapp Group Links.

How Can I Find Local Agency?

We will connect you with trusted local agencies in your country

HOW TO PASS J1 VISA INTERVIEW - POSSIBLE QUESTIONS

How to File Taxes as an Exchange Student?

My journey from a little town to the Big Apple!

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• American Summers

Summer Work & Travel Program

Expand your horizons — live and work in the us over your university break.

IENA’s Summer Work and Travel program provides the opportunity for university students to live, work and travel for up to 4-months in the US.

Living and working among Americans is a great opportunity to gain great insight into life and culture in the US, make friends, and improve your English skills. At the end of your program you’ll have the opportunity to travel around the US for up to 30 days. Summer Work and Travel programs last up to four months, with an opportunity for up to one month of travel after your job ends, depending upon your university schedule. IENA will be your program sponsor and provide support before and during your stay in the US.

Create lasting memories with Work & Travel!

In the US summer, you might work…

• At the beach
• In amusement or water parks
• In hospitality

In the US winter, you might work…

• At a ski resort
• In a restaurant

Application and Fees

Application information.

To apply to the Summer, Work and Travel Program, you must be:

• Proficient in English (oral and written)
• Enrolled full time in a college or university course
• Excited about experiencing American culture

What your program includes

• High quality service and support from start to finish
• Optional job placement
• 24/7 emergency line
• Visa assistance
• Insurance for your entire stay in the US

IENA works with certified international partners around   the world.   Please e-mail us at [email protected] to connect you with one of our partners who will guide you through the process in your home country

Travel Information

On the move in the us.

Aim to live close to where you work. Walking and biking allows you to get to know your neighborhood and city. You will stay physically active and save on transportation costs.

For longer trips, try public transportation in your area or rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. Local taxi services offer direct service.

Pre-arrival

Participants will arrange their own transportation to and from the US, and to their housing/destination Check with your recruiter for information on flight deals.

If your employer doesn’t have a shuttle, you may be able to arrange public transportation to/from the airport to your destination. Ask IENA or your recruiter for help in identifying public transportation options.

Participant Resources

What to see in the usa.

• Sporting events
• Historical sites
• Oceans, lakes, and rivers
• National/state/local parks and recreation areas
• Major cities/nearby cities
• Amusement/water parks

The following SEVIS Validation Information is for Exchange Visitors who are sponsored by IENA ONLY and participating in our Summer Work and Travel Program, including Summer Camp Support Staff.

If the Sponsor listed on your DS-2019 is not IENA, please STOP and contact your sponsor.

Frequently Asked Questions

We know traveling to a new country for work can raise a lot of questions. Check out our useful FAQs or reach out with questions

You are going to hear several terms for different forms etc. during the process. Here is our IENAipedia to those forms:

The J-1 Summer Work and Travel Visa:  This J-1 Visa is a government program that allows qualified full time students to share their cultures and ideas with the people of the United States. The J-1 Summer Work and Travel Visa is for individuals approved to participate in work-and study-based exchange visitor programs. This program is run by the US Department of State .

DS-2019 Form:  This form can only be issued by a US Department of State designated visa sponsor. IENA is one of those. It certifies that you are eligible to take part in the cultural exchange program and is a vital part of the application process. In essence, it is evidence that you have a bona-fide job offer in the USA. You will need it for your embassy appointment AND you will need it when you enter into the USA. Guard it as you would guard your passport.

SEVIS Receipt (or SEVIS I-901 Receipt):  SEVIS stands for “Student Exchange Visitor Information System”. It is a system by which the US Department of State keeps track of you on the program. You will need this form when you visit the embassy for your interview

WHAT PAPERWORK WILL THE EMPLOYER REQUIRE? Social Security:  The US Government requires all employees to apply for a Social Security Number. Your employer will help you do this upon your arrival, however, you MUST validate your arrival via your IENA account BEFORE you can apply. Once done, you will need to visit the local Social Security office. You must obtain a Social Security Card. If you already have one, then that’s yours for life.

Form I-9: All employees, foreign and domestic, are required to complete this form for each employer. It is a straightforward form and you will need your passport (including J-1 Visa) and your DS-2019. Your employer will help you complete this.

Form I-94: This is your arrival and departure record. It is a good idea to print this when you get settled and keep it with you. You cannot print it until after you have arrived in the USA. It can be printed here

W-4:  This form is for tax purposes. Your employer may withhold a small amount of taxes from your salary. You ARE entitled to claim some of this back because you are not a resident of the USA. IENA partner with taxback.com to make claiming back the taxes as simple as possible DO I HAVE HEALTHCARE IN AMERICA?

As you may be aware, health care is not free in the USA. You must have medical insurance. We have that covered for you. There are however some terminology and procedures it is handy to know:

Co-payment:  This is like your car insurance excess. Its an amount you always have to pay when you have treatment. For non-Emergency Room Visits, the Co-pay is $50. Whenever possible. You should always call the 800 number (free call) on the back of your insurance and discuss your symptoms before visiting a doctor. They can best advise you whether to visit a doctor and if so, where the closest clinic is.

Workers Compensation:  Whilst you are at work and carrying out your duties at work, you are covered by this insurance. This means if you have an injury/illness caused by or related to your work, you are covered by this insurance which is held by your employer. Our insurance is for non-work related cases, or injuries/illnesses that occur while on days off and while you are traveling.

Emergency Room: It’s the same thing as the A & E and is for serious injury or illness that requires immediate attention.  There is no co-pay or deductible for this if the injury/illness is deemed life threatening or requires an overnight stay. In all other cases, there will be a $350 Copay, so you should go to a walk-in clinic whenever possible.

Pre-Existing Conditions:  If you have a condition that has been treated, or you take regular medication for, in the past 6 months, it will NOT be covered by this insurance.

Here you can find more details on your insurance policy .

SOCIAL MEDIA AND YOUR ONLINE PRESENCE

When it comes to social media and American culture, there are a few things you need to be aware of. Employers have withdrawn job offers to participants before they have even arrived in the USA due to things they have found on social media. Please be aware of how you portray yourself. You are going to America to be professionally employed and your public presence should reflect that. We highly recommend you make all your social media private.

Remember, even something someone else tags you in or photos someone else posts of you can have an impact on someone’s impression of you. As a general rule of thumb, think “Would I want my parents or grandparents to see this?”

Each employer will have their own set of rules with regards to social media once you arrive.

CAN I LEAVE MY EMPLOYER OR SWITCH JOBS

IENA recognizes there are several reasons why you may leave your job.

Getting Fired

Break the rules and you may be fired. This is a job just like a job at home.  As with any job you take, there are rules that need to be followed.

If you have been fired, the first thing you must do is call IENA.  (888)724-4292 . Your employer are also instructed to call us.  Our goal is:

• For you to understand why you have been fired
• Get your version of events
• Ensure you are paid up to date
• To make a plan with you as to where you will go, if we can place you elsewhere or how you will get home

Just because you have been terminated from employment does not mean you are not part of our program. We want to make sure you are safe and taken care of.

You Decide to Leave

We understand there are a few reasons why you may decide to leave. All we ask is that if you have any problems at your place of employment, you follow the following steps:

• Please make sure you have given the job a chance – at least 2 weeks
• Speak with your supervisor about any problems first and give him or her the chance to resolve
• If this has not worked, call IENA who will advocate on your behalf

Remember as with any job, there are good days at work and bad days.  There are people you like working with, and people you don’t like working with.  Just as the employer has made a commitment to you via you job offer, you have made a commitment to the employer in acknowledging and agreeing to the terms of your job offer.

If you do decide to leave early, you MUST call IENA before you leave on (888) 724 4292 ext 4. We will want to help you make a plan to get home or find other employment.

CAN I GET A SECOND JOB

If you have the opportunity for a second job, please contact the IENA office and we will go through the process and contact your new employer. You  MUST  do this  BEFORE  you accept and begin working for your 2 nd  job employer.

ABOUT THE USA

The USA is a vast country.  People say that every state is almost like a country with its own culture and compare it to Europe.  Here are some handy tools to help you:

• Time Zones and Local Times
• US Public Holidays
• US Customs, Habits, and Etiquette
• Cost of Living

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Working in the United States

Many noncitizens want to come to the United States to work. This page provides a summary of employment-based nonimmigrant and immigrant visa classifications and other categories of noncitizens who are eligible for employment authorization. Each classification provides a link to more detailed information on its requirements.

A common way to work temporarily in the United States as a nonimmigrant is for a prospective employer to file a petition with USCIS on your behalf. The Temporary (Nonimmigrant) Workers webpage describes the main nonimmigrant temporary worker classifications.

If you have the right combination of skills, education, and/or work experience, you may be able to live and work permanently in the United States by seeking an employment-based immigrant visa. The Permanent Workers webpage describes the five employment-based immigrant visa preferences (also called categories).

If you live outside the United States and want to work here, you generally must apply for a visa from the U.S. Department of State (DOS), unless a visa is not required for people from your country of nationality. You may visit DOS’ Travel Without a Visa page for more information.

In many cases, USCIS must approve your petition before you are eligible to apply to DOS for a visa or seek admission at a port of entry. Before entering the United States, you must present yourself to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer and receive permission to enter the United States and engage in your proposed activity.

If you are in the United States in a lawful nonimmigrant status that does not provide employment authorization, you generally may apply for:

• A change of status to a nonimmigrant classification that provides employment authorization; or
• An adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident. This may be a concurrent filing with an immigrant visa petition or, depending on the circumstances, may require an applicant to obtain an approved immigrant visa before applying for an adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident.

Depending on the classification you seek, your change or adjustment of status application might require a U.S. employer or other qualified requestor to file an application or petition on your behalf to establish your eligibility before we approve your application. However, if you apply based on certain classifications (for example, an alien with extraordinary ability or as a nonimmigrant E-1 or E-2 principal treaty trader or investor), you may be eligible to self-petition, which means filing an application on your own behalf.

Additionally, if you are in the United States, including if you are an applicant for permanent residence or a certain family member of an alien who has lawful nonimmigrant status, you may file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization , to request employment authorization and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). You may also apply for an EAD that shows such authorization if your immigration status authorizes you to work in the United States without restrictions.

The conditions you must meet and how long you can work in the United States depend on the type of immigration status the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) grants. You must comply with all conditions of your employment authorization and the terms of your admission to this country. If you violate any of the conditions, you could be removed from or denied re-entry into the United States.

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Temporary Worker Visas

Visas for Members of the Foreign Media, Press, and Radio

Treaty Trader & Treaty Investor and Australians in Specialty Occupations

Visas for Canadian and Mexican USMCA Professional Workers

Domestic Renewal of H-1B Nonimmigrant Visas for Certain Applicants

A citizen of a foreign country who wishes to work in the United States must first get the right visa.  If the employment is for a fixed period, the applicant can apply for a temporary employment visa.  There are 11 temporary worker visa categories.  Most applicants for temporary worker visas must have an approved petition.  The prospective employer must file the petition on behalf of the applicant.  U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) reviews the petition. 

Temporary worker visa categories

Labor certification.

Certain visa categories need an approved labor certification. First, the prospective employer must apply for the labor certification with the Department of Labor .  Then, the prospective employer can file the Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Form I-129, with USCIS.  Please refer to the Instructions for Form I-129   on the USCIS website to confirm if you need  the labor certification.

Petition Approval

Some temporary worker categories are limited in the total number of petitions which can be approved on a yearly basis. Before an applicant can apply for a temporary worker visa, USCIS must first approve the Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Form I-129 .    For more information about the petition process, see Working in the U.S. and Temporary (Nonimmigrant) Workers on the USCIS website.  Once USCIS approves the petition, it will send the prospective employer a Notice of Action, Form I-797. 

Important Notice: Same-sex Marriage

Effective immediately, U.S. Embassies and Consulates will adjudicate visa applications that are based on a same-sex marriage in the same way that we adjudicate applications for opposite gender spouses. Please reference the specific guidance on the visa category for which you are applying for more details on documentation required for derivative spouses. For further information, please see our  FAQ’s .

How to Apply

You may apply for a visa when USCIS has approved your petition. There are several steps in the visa application process. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary at the U.S. embassy or consulate where you apply. Please visit the embassy or consulate website for instructions on how to apply.

Complete The Online Visa ApplicationComplete The Online Visa Application

• Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 – Learn more about completing the DS-160 . You must: 1) complete the online visa application and 2) print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
• Photo –You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must be in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements .

Schedule an Interview

Applpicants of a certain age may not need to have an interview. Consular officers have the discretion to  interview any applicant, regardless of age.

You must schedule an appointment for your visa interview at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you live.  However, it may be difficult to qualify for a visa outside of your place of permanent residence.

Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category.  You should apply for your visa early.  Review the interview wait time for the location where you will apply:

Appointment Wait Time

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment as a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. 

Note: Please check the individual Embassy or Consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview.

Applicants scheduling visa appointments in a location different from their place of residence should check post websites for nonresident wait times.

Select a U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

You will need to provide the receipt number to schedule an interview.  The receipt number is printed on your approved Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Form I-129, or Notice of Action, Form I-797.

Prepare for your Interview

• Fees - Pay the non-refundable visa application fee , if you are required to pay it before your interview. When your visa is approved, you may also pay a visa issuance fee, if applicable to your nationality. Fee information is provided below:

Select your nationality to see Issuance Fee

Reciprocity Fees

Nonimmigrant visa applicants from certain countries*/areas of authority may be required to pay a visa issuance fee after their application is approved. These fees are based on the principle of reciprocity:  when a foreign government imposes fees on U.S. citizens for certain types of visas, the United States will impose a reciprocal fee on citizens of that country*/area of authority for similar types of visas. 

Check the Reciprocity Fees

• Fee payment information is available on the website of the embassy or consulate where you will apply.
• L visa applicants included in a L blanket petition : must also pay the Fraud Prevention and Detection fee and may need to pay the Border Security Act fee. Select  All Fees  to learn more.

Gather Required Documentation

Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview:

• Passport  valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements ).  Each person included in a single passport needs a separate visa application.
• Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page .
• Application fee payment receipt, if you are required to pay before your interview.
• Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the photo upload fails, you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements . 
• Petition Receipt Number as it appears on your Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, Form I-129, or Notice of Action, Form I-797.
• L Visa Applicants  included in an L blanket petition, must bring Form I-129S to the interview.

Legal Rights and Protections

H-1B, H-2A, and H-2B visa applicants should read the Legal Rights and Protections pamphlet before applying for a visa.  The pamphlet includes information on your rights in the United States and protection available to you.

Additional Documentation May Be Required

Review the instructions on how to apply for a visa on the website of the embassy or consulate where you will apply. Additional documents may be requested to establish if you are qualified.  

Most visa applicants, except H-1B and L, need to show their intent to return to their home country after their temporary stay in the United States. They can do so by showing proof of compelling ties to the home country, which may include:

• A residence abroad which you do not intend to abandon
• Your family relationships
• Your economic situation
• Your long term plans

Attend your Visa Interview

During the visa interview, a consular officer will determine if you are eligible for the visa.  The consular officer will also determine if the visa category is appropriate for your purpose of travel. You will need to establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive the category of visa for which you are applying.

Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans will be taken as part of your application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location.

After your visa interview, your application may need further administrative processing . A consular officer will inform you if further processing is necessary for your application.

Depending on your nationality, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee.  You must pay this fee when the visa is approved.  The embassy will explain how your passport with visa will be returned to you.  Review the visa processing time , to learn how soon your passport with visa will generally be ready for pick-up or delivery by the courier.

Entering the United States

A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport).  A visa also allows you to request permission to enter the United States.  A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States.  U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States.  When admitted, you may get an admission stamp or  Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. Review the CBP website to learn more about entry requirements and customs restrictions.

Extending Your Stay

You must leave the United States on or before the date indicated on your admission stamp or Form I-94.  You can request to extend your stay by contacting USCIS.  Visit USCIS's Extend Your Stay website for more information.

Failure to leave the United States on time will result in you being out of status . Under U.S. law, visas of travelers who are out of status are automatically voided ( Section 222(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act ). If you had a multiple-entry visa and it was voided due to you being out of status, it will not be valid for future entries into the United States.

Failure to leave the United States on time may also result in you being ineligible for visas you may apply for in the future. Review Visa Denials and Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws to learn more.

Change of Status

While in the United States, you may be able to request a change to another nonimmigrant category.  See Change My Nonimmigrant Status on the USCIS website to learn more.

Requesting a change of status does not require that you apply for a new visa, as long as you remain in status. If you cannot remain in status while USCIS processes your change of status request, you must apply for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

Additional Information

• The approval of a petition does not guarantee that you will get a visa. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa.
• Spouse and Children –
• Your spouse and unmarried, minor children may also apply for the same visa category as you to accompany or join you.  The only exception is for Cultural Exchange Visitor Q-1 visa applicants.  You must be able to show that you will be able to financially support your family in the United States.
• For more information, visit USCIS’s Temporary Workers information and Employment Authorization website.
• Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date.  Therefore, a valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. If you have a valid visa in your expired passport, do not remove it from your expired passport. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States.

Visa Denial and Ineligibility

Review Visa Denials  for detailed information about visa ineligibilities, denials and waivers.

Visa Renewal

The same visa application process applies for first-time applicants and renewals. Please review How to Apply for more information.  Some applicants may be eligible for interview waiver.  Interview waiver allows eligible individuals to renew their visa without an in-person interview. To determine if you are eligible for interview waiver, please review the instructions on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply.

I was refused a visa under section 214(b). May I reapply?

Yes, if you feel circumstances have changed regarding your application. Review  Visa Denials  to learn more.

Misrepresentation or Fraud

Attempting to obtain a visa by the willful misrepresentation of a material fact, or fraud, may result in the permanent refusal of a visa or denial of entry into the United States. 

Review  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws .

Citizen of Canada and Bermuda

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not need visas to enter the United States as temporary workers.  These applicants do need a temporary worker petition approved by USCIS. For more information see the  U.S. Embassy Ottawa website , the  U.S. Consulate Hamilton website  and the  CBP website .

Additional resources for Canadian temporary workers to the United States can be found on the U.S. Embassy Ottawa website in Canada.

Further Questions

• Case-Specific Questions  - Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate handling your visa application for status information. Select  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  for contact information.
• General Questions  - review  Contact Us .

More Information

A-Z Index Legal Rights & Protections Lost/Stolen Travel Documents Denials Temporary Workers-USCIS Fraud Warning Border Security/Safety Visa Expiration Date Automatic Revalidation Nonimmigrants in the United States–Applying for Visas in Canada or Mexico Visa Applicants - State Sponsors of Terrorism Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Customer Service Statement

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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 15,000 Irish travel to the USA and we’ve helped over 50,000 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 2023, 2024 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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Wealth of Geeks

9 Jobs That Can Be Done While Traveling

Posted: December 24, 2023 | Last updated: December 24, 2023

In a world of high-speed living and remote jobs, earning money anywhere is possible. Travel isn’t cheap. It costs a lot of money, and working in an office does not leave much time for leisure. If you are on vacation and have seen all there is to be seen, you may look for something else to pass the time.

Remote jobs don’t have to be boring. In fact, many of them are great options for earning free or discounted travel. You just have to know how to choose which of these travel jobs is right for you.

1. Blogging

Blogging while traveling is a great way to earn some money. Your office is wherever your laptop is, so you are never tied down to one place. This can help you travel the world with just a laptop and a bit of data, which you can always find in local cafes or restaurants . It’s even better if you do travel writing, so you can combine firsthand experience with creative writing that helps others plan their travels.

2. Vlogging

Similar to blogging, video blogging, also called “ vlogging ,” is a visual form of content. You can write blogs for your website but also work as a freelancer for other people’s websites. When it comes to vlogging, however, people usually vlog for their own channels. It takes more time to succeed but can also be more rewarding monetarily. All you need is a smartphone with a nice camera, or if you want to be fancy, a laptop with some video editing software like Adobe PremierePro or DaVinci Resolve.

3. Video Commercials

This one is both fun and rewarding. If you have a smartphone with a decent camera and invest in an excellent DJI drone, you can earn some nice money on your travels. Combine this with an investment in a decent laptop and a video editing course, and you have a recipe for success. When I was on vacation in Corfu , I discovered an opportunity with their beautiful beachfront Tavernas. I packed my drone, visited a few of them on foot, and offered them my services. I scored two jobs for filming a video ad and one logo redesign job, which made me a nice profit for less than a full day of work.

4. Singing and Playing an Instrument

Singing or playing an instrument is another excellent way to earn some surprisingly good money. If you are a good singer and can play an instrument, you can always play in the city center or other popular spots. Many great talents have been discovered performing in public this way. You can also offer your skills to local restaurants or lounges if they are in need of live music or other entertainment.

5. Haircuts for Tips

If you know how to cut hair, another great way to earn money is to offer free haircuts and keep profits from their tips if they decide to give you one. You only need hair clippers for this one, so you can be flexible and earn well in countries where haircuts are expensive. Pro tip : You can combine this with vlogging and use this as your content on your vlog to increase exposure.

6. Exposure for Businesses

This travel job is for those with a well-developed online business. If you already have a travel blog , you can always ask restaurant owners, bar owners, hotels, and others who provide services in tourism if they would like to collaborate on a promotion on your website. The business will get exposure to your audience, and you can negotiate payment or exchanges for that promotion, like a one-night hotel stay or a free meal.

7. Bartending

A good barista is always a much-needed part of the crew. If you know how to mix drinks or make a killer espresso, you can always offer your services to nightclubs or cafes and earn a decent wage, plus tips.

8. Temporary Tattoos or Hair Styling

Unlike the classic tattoo industry, where laws and regulations can tie up employment approval, temporary tattoos can be done anytime, anywhere, and do not fall under any laws and regulations. There is a low risk of infection with temporary tattoos or paints, unlike classic tattoos that are created by piercing the skin. Hair braiding or wrapping is popular at beach destinations and can also be done anytime, anywhere.

9. Working on a Cruise Ship

Working on a cruise ship is more permanent, but it still fits within the scope of travel jobs. There are numerous jobs that you can do on a cruise ship, and each of those offers some nice wages. Understandably, a captain makes much more than a cabin steward, but all employees receive benefits and gratuity. You can use the time between shifts to discover beautiful cities wherever you stop. 

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Passing lane construction on US 40 in Grand County begins May 13

Travel advisory.

Grand County — The Colorado Department of Transportation will begin passing lane construction work on May 13. Work will take place along US Highway 40 between Kremmling and Steamboat Springs.

This passing lane project will occur on US 40 just north of Wolford Mountain Reservoir, Mile Point 172 to MP 173. Project completion is expected in early October. Capital Paving and Construction, of Englewood, is the contractor for this project.

The construction of passing lanes will allow for safer transportation of commercial/freight trucks, motorists and cyclists on this busy corridor by providing a stretch of highway with space and opportunity for faster vehicles to safely pass slower moving traffic.

The project is part of CDOT’s 10-year plan for improvements in Grand County.

Traffic Impacts

• Normal working hours will be Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Friday from 7 a.m. to noon.
• Motorists will encounter alternating lane closures and delays of up to 20 minutes can be expected during working hours.
• Motorists can expect a speed reduction in the work zone. There will be no work over holiday weekends.

Project Information

For additional information about this project:

• Call the project information line at 970-623-6658
• Email the project team at: [email protected]
• Visit the project website at: www.codot.gov/projects/us40grandcopassinglanes

Know Before You Go

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:

• Road conditions and travel information: COtrip.org
• Download the COtrip Planner app: bit.ly/COtripapp
• Sign up for project or travel alerts: bit.ly/COnewsalerts
• See scheduled construction lane closures: bit.ly/laneclosures
• Connect with @ColoradoDOT on social media: Twitter , Facebook , Instagram and YouTube

Download the COtrip App!

The new free COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!

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• Travel Products

I Used to Work in Beauty Retail, and These Are the 10 Best Products People Don't Know About at Amazon

Prices start at $4.

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

If there’s one thing I know, it is how to curate the perfect makeup routine for travel. I spent the majority of my teenage years learning all about beauty from my makeup artist sister, and I honed my skills during my time working at Ulta Beauty . This experience allowed me to develop a real passion for makeup and skincare and apply that knowledge to my travel writing. 

I’ve tried hundreds of items and over time have curated a toiletry bag stacked with travel-friendly products that help me look and feel my best no matter where I am. And with the sun out longer and the seasons changing, I thought I’d share my favorite beauty products you can find at Amazon right now. I carry all of these products in my travel makeup bag, including a do-it-all tinted SPF and my personal favorite dry shampoo . Prices start at just $4 for my picks, and you can trust that these products will help you create the ultimate makeup bag.

It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream SPF 50

During the summer, I love streamlining my products as much as possible. That’s why I use this tinted SPF that acts as a sunscreen and wears as a glowy foundation. In fact, it works so well as a foundation that I’ve been surprised with its long-lasting, skin-blurring formula. It comes in 22 shades and has a medium-to-full coverage. Plus, it's easy to apply on the go, so give it a try ahead of your next vacation. 

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Gel Moisturizer

This French pharmacy skincare brand is a favorite among Travel + Leisure editors for its vast line of high-quality hydrating and nourishing no-frills products. This water-based gel moisturizer is my personal go-to for the warmer months, as my skin is often oily this time of year, since this moisturizer leaves my skin hydrated without being weighed down. It’s also formulated with niacinamide and other skin-friendly ingredients that make your skin feel moisturized while fading dark spots over time. 

Murad Multi-Vitamin Clear Coat SPF 50

You should never leave for a vacation without a high-quality sunscreen . If you’re on the hunt for an effective one this season, I recommend this do-it-all SPF from Murad that has a clear, gel-based texture (no white cast!) and is formulated with antioxidants like vitamins C, D, E, and F that actively work to prevent early signs of aging caused by sun damage. 

The Rootist Clarify Dry Shampoo Powder

Dry shampoo is essential when I travel. I always find that my hair is oilier than usual, and the only thing that keeps my locks looking refreshed and voluminous is dry shampoo. I’ve been using this dry shampoo for the past week, and it has it all: It is designed with a non-drying alcohol-free formula, absorbs both sweat and oil, and has a convenient brush applicator. 

CeraVe Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid are two of my favorite skincare ingredients that I use daily to keep my skin nourished and bright. And as much as I love an in-depth skincare routine, I look to products that can do double duty to save space when I travel. This vitamin C serum from CeraVe that’s also formulated with hyaluronic acid locks in extra moisture and smooths fine lines for a dewy, smooth complexion. And as a bonus, it's $11 off today.

Tula The Cult Classic Purifying Cleanser 

Flight attendants and I love nearly every skincare product from Tula, including this travel-size face wash. Formulated with probiotics, prebiotics, turmeric, and other skin-friendly ingredients, this cleanser effectively pulls out dirt, makeup, sunscreen, and other pore-clogging agents to make my skin squeaky clean. Grab it on sale while it's just $12. 

Honest Beauty 2-in-1 Creme Blush + Lip Color

I’ve been a fan of Honest Beauty for a long time, and I love this cream blush from the brand that doubles as a beautiful lip color. Apply it with your blush, finger tips, or a sponge to look glowy and perfectly flushed all day long. Available in seven shades, including coral-orange and light pink , this multi-purpose cream blush complements an array of skin tones. 

e.l.f Power Grip Primer

My makeup artist sister has long maintained that a good primer keeps your makeup looking smooth and long-lasting. This particular e.l.f primer is beloved by over 18,000 shoppers thanks to its effective gel-based formula that grips makeup to your skin for all-day wear. Plus, its small size makes it easy to toss in a travel bag.  

Neutrogena Stubborn Acne Pimple Patches

Something about travel always causes my skin to break out. To get rid of any unwanted blemishes, I’ve been loving these pimple patches from Neutrogena. These patches have a hydrocolloid base that works to pull out any blemishes and impurities from your pores to make their visibility smaller after just once use. Aside from their effectiveness, these patches are ultra thin and transparent, so I don’t mind throwing them on during the day when I feel a pimple coming to the surface. 

Wet N Wild Mega Glo Bronzer Stick

I’ve tried plenty of bronzers — both powder and cream-based — yet always come back to this $4 one from Wet N Wild. I prefer it over more expensive, high-end bronzers because of its natural-looking, blendable formula that gives me a healthy, golden bronze wherever I go. This superstar stick also comes in three other shades to match your skin tone as well as a variety of blushes and highlighters to complete your look. Plus, I appreciate that it's vegan and cruelty-free.

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For Mormon Missionaries, Some ‘Big, Big Changes’

The church has loosened its strict rules for those evangelizing. And many members of Gen-Z are loving it.

Andres Gonzalez stands in front of a statue of Jesus Christ in Los Angeles as another missionary, Alec Crawley, films him for a video for social media. Credit... Isadora Kosofsky for The New York Times

Supported by

By Lauren Jackson

Lauren attended church in London, Los Angeles and Paris and spoke with current and former missionaries to report this story.

• May 10, 2024

Andres Gonzalez, 19, stands on the balcony of his Los Angeles apartment, his hands in his suit pockets. It is his first week as a missionary, but today, instead of approaching people on the street, he is shooting a video that he will later post to social media.

After about a dozen takes, he is successful. “Hello! If you would like to learn more about Jesus Christ,” he says to the camera in Spanish, “contact me.”

Mr. Gonzalez is the image of the modern missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which has changed many of its practices — from how missionaries preach to how they dress.

The faith, long known for sending tens of thousands of neatly and formally dressed young people across the globe each year to preach door to door, is encouraging new missionaries to spread the gospel on social media and, for some, with acts of community service closer to home.

As a church leader, Dieter F. Uchtdorf, put it, missionaries should feel comfortable sharing their faith in “ normal and natural ways .”

In the last few years, the church has also changed some rules for missionaries themselves — loosening restrictions on dress codes ( women can wear pants ) and how often they can call family members back home ( once a week , not just on Christmas and Mother’s Day).

To outsiders, the adjustments may seem small. But to missionaries who adhere to strict rules while on assignment, the shifts are dramatic.

“We’ve seen a lot of big, big changes,” Jensen Diederich, 23, said. He served his mission in Peru and said it was “monumental” when the church allowed him to call home weekly, instead of just twice a year.

The church believes missionary work is essential for the world’s salvation — that people must be baptized in the faith to get to the highest level of heaven after they die. Missionary work also helps increase the church’s membership, and it deepens many young members’ faith. Many missionaries begin their assignments just after they leave home. Instead of partying on a college campus, they commit themselves to the religion and develop habits that can last a lifetime.

One of those members was Senator Mitt Romney of Utah, who was a missionary in France in the 1960s. He has said the isolation of his mission allowed him to examine his faith without distraction . When asked about the changes, he said, “For young people of my generation, I think the separation from family and friends served us well.”

But he understands times have changed. “With today’s youth in near constant contact with one another, maintaining greater connection during a mission fits their life experience,” he added.

Many young church members say the new rules have made missionary service more attractive and realistic.

Kate Kennington, a 19-year-old with a mission assignment to London, said finding people online and messaging them is a more successful way of approaching potential converts. “It’s how I would want to be contacted,” she said.

“Knocking on doors and approaching people on the street are no longer seen as useful as they once were because of shifts in American culture,” said Matthew Bowman, a professor of religion and history at Claremont Graduate University who holds the chair of Mormon studies. He is also a church member.

For decades, missionaries’ clean-cut suits were signs of prosperity, Mr. Bowman said, and an effective way of appealing to converts. But they now feel “outdated.”

Many of the changes, especially the push to evangelize on social media, were fueled by the pandemic, which shut down in-person church gatherings and forced Latter-day Saints and Jehovah’s Witnesses to find alternatives to door-to-door preaching.

The missionaries use their phones to film videos of themselves promoting the church or sharing messages of faith. In one video , a missionary raps about his faith. In another , two missionaries throw a football and a Frisbee through an obstacle course in a church gym — an object lesson meant to visualize how Jesus Christ can help people overcome challenges.

So far, the changes appear to be working: In the last three years, as pandemic restrictions lifted and young members responded to an appeal from the church’s top leader for them to serve, the number of full-time proselytizing missionaries has risen by around 25 percent , according to church data. At the end of last year, the church had about 72,000 full-time missionaries serving around the world.

The church has just under 17.3 million members globally but has seen growth slow. From 1988 to 1989, during a surge in growth when the church expanded into West Africa , the church grew by about 9 percent . Last year, the church grew by about 1.5 percent .

A tradition of travel

Missionary work is a rite of passage for Latter-day Saints — and has been since the church’s founding in 1830.

The church’s missionaries have traveled the world, growing their faith from a fledgling start-up in upstate New York to a global religion that brings in billions of dollars in revenue .

Church leaders say it is men’s responsibility to become missionaries for two years starting at age 18. Missionary work is optional for women, who serve for 18 months. The church has historically encouraged women to focus on marriage and motherhood. But since 2012, when the church lowered the age women could become missionaries to 19 from 21, more women have been going .

Missionaries leave their families and friends, learn new languages and spend the first years of their adulthood spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ.

While on a mission, they cannot date and must follow the religion’s ban on premarital sex, drinking, smoking, coffee and caffeinated tea. Communication with friends and family back home is restricted. They commit to stay focused on their work, and their proximity to their missionary partner creates a sense of accountability that keeps most from breaking the rules.

Until recently, the experience of young missionaries was similar to that of their parents. They first attended a missionary training center — a religious boot camp of sorts — before then traveling to their missions.

Most missionaries now start their training online at home , where the transition is less jarring. They can adapt to a mission schedule with their family’s support. Being home is also an opportunity for new missionaries to evangelize in their community.

“I’ve had friends who aren’t members of the church,” Tanner Bird, a 19-year-old missionary in Brazil who did part of his training at home in Houston. “And I just get super, super excited and talk to them about the gospel.”

Once deployed, men in some areas are allowed to wear blue shirts and go without ties , while women can wear wrinkle-resistant dress pants in “conservative colors.” Most missionaries now have smartphones and call their families weekly.

Some traditions remain: Young missionaries still do not get to pick their destinations. Many teenagers throw parties to open their assignments, reading their “call letter” aloud for the first time in front of family and friends. Others film elaborate announcement videos — including on ice skates . Some serve close to home (there are 10 missions in Utah). Others go as far as Tahiti or Tokyo.

Mr. Gonzalez, the missionary in Los Angeles, said he first imagined going on a mission when he was a child in Venezuela. His parents, who converted to the faith, often had young missionaries over for meals. After the church helped the family settle in Utah, he said serving as a missionary was part of his “American dream.”

Every morning, he wakes up at 6:30 a.m., the set time for many missionaries, with his “companion,” an assigned missionary partner. They are mandated to “never be alone,” with few exceptions, and each day follow a missionary schedule .

On Facebook, they contact people they have met, including those they have approached on the street in downtown Los Angeles. They also search groups for people who may be open to their message and post videos to generate interest in their faith. They keep track of potential converts’ progress, including lessons they teach. Every Monday, Mr. Gonzalez calls his parents.

Calls are also an opportunity for him to receive support. “It’s a little bit hard,” Mr. Gonzalez said of his mission work, describing people in downtown Los Angeles as “busy.” Still, he remains hopeful: “Some of them, they really are ready. They make time, even just like five minutes.”

The missionary experience is not for everyone. Some people feel isolated, find it difficult to adapt to a location, or struggle with the rules or the pressure to keep their commitment. Some people do leave early; the church does not comment on those who do.

Alex McAlpin, a 23-year-old who went on a mission to Denver, almost did not put in a missionary application. Before her mission, she attended Pepperdine University, where she wrestled with some aspects of church doctrine and history.

Then the church made its dress code change, allowing women to wear pants in 2018.

“That was the first day of my life that I thought maybe I would go” on a mission, Ms. McAlpin said. She saw the new dress code and the church’s other mission changes as a sign the church was evolving and listening to its younger members, many of whom hope their church will modernize in larger ways. “I wanted to be a part of the change.”

Lauren Jackson is an associate editor and writer for The Morning , The Times’s flagship daily newsletter. More about Lauren Jackson

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Finding a Job

Every year, more than 15,000 Work & Travel USA students work at all kinds of CIEE sourced seasonal jobs in locations across the United States. These jobs meet CIEE’s high standards to ensure a good workplace experience.

CIEE works with thousands of America’s best seasonal employers, and we sponsor hiring events where you can talk with them face-to-face, in person or over the Internet. In some cases, CIEE recruiters do the interviewing and hiring for the employers.

Students from selected countries can choose to find their own jobs, as long as those jobs are approved by CIEE in advance – your CIEE international representative or CIEE can tell you more.

What Kinds of Jobs are Available Through CIEE?

With so many different jobs available, you‘re sure to find one you like! You can work at hotels, restaurants, amusement and theme parks, ski resorts, national parks, or retail stores. All of the employers we work with provide reliable jobs with competitive salaries, and many even offer affordable housing.

Here’s a sampling of some of the jobs CIEE Work & Travel USA students have held:

Get outdoors and interact with the public. Most parks are located in resort areas.

See what you can do

• Ride operators
• Games operators
• Food & beverage hosts
• Guest services
• Merchandise/retail hosts
• Lifeguards (shallow and deep water)
• Parking hosts
• Employee housing hosts

Work for one of the world’s great hospitality chains or a small, locally owned hotel.

• Hotel front desk clerk
• Housekeeping/room attendant
• Waitstaff/host/cashier/banquet server
• Dishwasher/busser/utility
• Food runner/line server
• Line/prep/banquet cook
• Retail sales associate/cashier
• Gift shop clerk

The National Park System is one of America’s greatest treasures and a symbol of national pride, offering amazing landscapes. Most jobs are available from May through September, during the U.S. summer vacation season.

• Café attendant
• Hospitality crew
• Server assistant
• Food and beverage hosts
• Kitchen utility worker
• Resort worker
• Guest room attendant
• Snack bar attendant

Join the team at a well-known national chain or a small, family-run business.

• Host/hostess
• Salad/sandwich maker

Help shoppers at one of America’s large stores, or at small boutiques. These jobs are often in attractive destinations popular with tourists.

• Grocery clerk
• Product stocker
• Ice cream shop worker
• Convenience store clerk
• Bicycle rental technician

A popular option for those who have their university break during winter in the United States, these jobs can place you at some of America’s greatest ski resorts.

• Ski/snowboard instructors
• Ski/snowboard rental shop attendants
• Lift operators
• Ticket sales
• Snow removal
• Cafeteria cashiers
• Servers/waitstaff
• Dining room hosts
• Dishwashers
• Housekeepers

Start With a Clear Plan

First, decide where in the United States you want to go, and what kind of job you’d like. You will spend up to four months at your job, so it is important to choose one that matches your personality and skills. Your CIEE international representative can tell you what jobs are available during the time you wish to visit.

To get the job you want, do all you can to make yourself appealing to employers. Create a resume that highlights your skills and experience, such as cooking, swimming, or helping at a family business. Include anything that shows you can handle responsibility, such as child care, tutoring, or volunteering. Even if you do not have past job experience, you should share what you can do.

Customer service is a big part of most jobs, so employers want to know that you are comfortable working with people and are at ease speaking English.

Find a job through CIEE

Every year, CIEE helps thousands of students like you find jobs by connecting them directly with prospective employers. Your agent can help you determine which option is right for you.

CIEE Road Shows Job fairs where CIEE brings U.S. employers and students together for face-to-face meetings and interviews. Most of these jobs are at large, well-known businesses.

CIEE Recruit CIEE representatives, working on behalf of employers, interview and hire students at these job fairs. Many of these jobs are at smaller employers.

CIEE Virtual Interview with a CIEE representative or U.S. employer in real-time, via video on the Internet. Employers of all sizes offer jobs through CIEE Virtual.

Finding a Job by Yourself

Some students from select countries are permitted to find their own jobs. Your CIEE international representative can tell you if this applies to you. It’s also possible for you to find another job once in the United States.  CIEE must approve any job before you get hired.  We want to make sure you are protected and have a positive work experience!

To get a job you find on your own approved by CIEE, you must ask your host employer to provide job details such as contact information and physical address, wage per hour, job start and end dates and housing cost. You will add this information to your application in Beacon and submit to your international representative.

Download Australia-New Zealand Work & Explore Placement Agreement Form

How to Prepare For a Great Interview

In person or via webcam, interviewing is a big part of getting a job. This is your chance to make a good impression. Here are a few tips to help you succeed:

Learn About the Employer Before the interview, find out what you can about the job and what it requires. Be prepared to talk about your background and why you are a good candidate. Come with at least two questions to ask. It shows you are interested.

Make a Good First Impression Be sure to arrive on time, and present yourself professionally. Introduce yourself with a friendly handshake and a smile.

Talk About Your Experience If you have work experience, talk about it. If not, talk about what you have done–for example, volunteer work or involvement in university clubs. Use examples of how your skills fit this job.

Ask Specific Questions This shows you are interested and responsible.

If You Find Your Own Job, CIEE Must Approve It

It is important that you stay safe and are treated fairly on the job. That’s why every job offered through a CIEE hiring service meets very high standards. It is also why we need to approve any job that students find on their own.

CIEE Job Guidelines

- Jobs must meet the rules, regulations, and intent of the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program, which focuses on cultural exchange. - CIEE cannot approve a job if there are questions about your safety and well-being, or if the job prevents you from having a meaningful cultural exchange experience. - You must be able to balance your work responsibilities with time spent exploring the local community, learning about the United States, and getting to know Americans. - You may only work for employers whose staffing needs are seasonal or temporary in nature. - Your job must pay a salary that meets minimum wage regulation. If you are not sure a job meets these guidelines, send us an  email  and we’ll be glad to help.

You may not work at certain kinds of jobs. See the list of prohibited jobs:

• Jobs that are filled by a different type of J-1 visa (camp counselors, interns, etc.)
• Jobs obtained through staffing or employment agencies
• Jobs designated by the U.S. Department of Labor as “hazardous to youth”
• Jobs where students are hired independent contractors (using 1099 forms)
• Jobs where students works the majority of their hours between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
• Sales jobs that require students to invest their own money to pre-purchase inventory
• Jobs that are mostly commission-based and thus do not guarantee minimum wage
• Jobs with exposure to dangerous chemicals (such as pesticides)
• Jobs that require a professional license
• Jobs that displace U.S. workers
• Jobs with employers who have experienced layoffs within the last 120 days
• Jobs with employers who have workers on strike or lockout
• Domestic help positions in private U.S. households, such as au pair, servant, gardener, or chauffeur
• Modeling or jobs in the adult entertainment industry
• Jobs on casino gaming floors
• Jobs in warehouses, factories/manufacturing, moving companies, or catalog/online distribution centers
• Jobs in the fisheries industry
• Jobs at mall kiosks or carts
• Jobs as operators or drivers of vehicles or vessels for which drivers’ licenses are required
• Operators of pedicabs, rolling chairs, other passenger carrying vehicles for hire, and/or vehicles requiring a commercial driver’s license
• Farm or ranch jobs
• Jobs with traveling carnivals / concessions
• Jobs providing clinical care, medical services or involving patient contact, hands-on therapy, counseling, administering treatment or making diagnoses of medical, psychiatric or psychological patients, or veterinary work involving hands-on care
• Jobs as ship or aircraft crew members or as pilots, except as crew members on ships that travel only within domestic U.S. waters
• Jobs as teachers, teaching assistants, or coaches
• Jobs entailing sustained physical contact with customers, such as, body piercing, tattoo parlor work, or massage)
• Jobs with domestic cleaning companies

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