12 Month USA Work Programme

Frequently Asked Questions

General

When can I apply?: You can apply anytime of the year. However the processing time of your application will take approximately 6 to 8 weeks, so plan for this when you apply. But REMEMBER!! You have to physically be in the USA on the programme no later than 12 months after your graduation date (the date on your certificate)
How much does the programme cost?: Please see the the Cost page of our website.
What does this price cover?: Processing of application; transfer of all relevant documents to CIEE in Portland; Participant Handbook; Issue of DS-2019; US Embassy appointment arranged for ROI applicants; Dispatch of all Visa Application forms, including samples; 24 hour emergency service in the USA.
What does the SEVIS fee cover?: The Sevis fee is charged by the US Government in order to maintain the SEVIS system. The SEVIS system generates your DS-2019 and serves as a tracking system/database while you are in the US. There are more details regarding the SEVIS system in the programme handbook and materials you receive when you are approved for the programme.
How long before I can go? Can this be expedited?: The processing time of your application to the 12 month Work USA Programme will be approx. 6 to 8 weeks from the date you submit all necessary documentation. Unfortunately it is difficult to guarantee the processing times for the 12 month Work USA visa due to SEVIS waiting periods and Interview Appointment availability at the US Embassy/Consulate. Due to this we do not accept applications with a departure date less than 6 weeks away. If your application is processed in less time you can re-arrange your flights for an earlier date provided your J1 visa is issued by that date.
Can I go to the US and apply from there?: Unfortunately, no. You need to be in Ireland for a majority of the process for several reasons. The main reason is that if you have spent too much time in the US prior to attending your Interview at the US Embassy/Consulate they will look at your application more suspiciously and you will run a greater risk of rejection. We also need to be able to contact you if there are any problems with your application, so they can be dealt with immediately. You also must attend your US Embassy/Consulate interview yourself in person in Ireland. We also post all important documents to your Irish address, so you will need to be there to receive them.
Do I have to enter the US before my 12 months from Graduation has passed or is it sufficient to just submit my application before that date?: No, you must arrive in the US and have your DS-2019/Visa start date within 12 months of Graduation date. You cannot travel after the 12 months has passed.

Eligibility

Is the 12 month Work USA Programme open to all Irish Nationals?: No. You need to be a part-time or full-time post secondary student or a recent graduate (within 12 months) from a recognised ROI or NI college/University. All applicants must show proof of return to Ireland.
I hold an Irish passport and/or live in Ireland but studied in the UK. Am I eligible?: No. You must be registered or be within 12 months of graduation from a University within the 32 counties of Ireland. However, you could potentially be eligible for our Internship programme - see www.usavisa.ie/internship for more details.
I am a 32 year-old student. Am I eligible?: Yes, as long as you meet all eligibility requirements.
Is the 12 month Work USA programme only open to Irish nationals?: Yes, you must be a holder of an Irish Passport to apply for the programme.
I already went to the US with a J1 Summer Work and Travel visa. Can I still apply for the 12 month Work USA programme?
Of course. Regardless of how many times you went to the US with a J1 Summer Work and Travel visa, you can apply for the 12 Month Work USA visa provided you meet all eligibility requirements. You will need to wait until you withdraw from your J1 programme or until your visa expires to be able to lodge your application for the 12 Month USA Work Programme and some hiatus rules apply in certain situations i.e. returning to the same employer. You can email workusa@usit.ie for more information on your specific situation.
I already went to the US on an Internship programme. Can I apply for this new programme now?: Yes, provided you meet all eligibility requirements and your new 12 month Work USA programme will impart an advanced level of skills and you will not be repeating any previous experience. Some hiatus rules apply in certain situations i.e. returning to the same employer. You can email workusa@usit.ie for more information on your specific situation.
I've finished my internship and would like to begin the 12 month Work USA programme while in the US. Is this possible?: No, you must return to Ireland to make the application for the new programme. Please note you must meet all programme eligibility requirements to be able to apply for the 12 Month USA Work Programme and be in a position to re-enter the US and start your programme no more than 12 months from your graduation. Some hiatus rules apply in certain situations i.e. returning to the same employer. You can email workusa@usit.ie for more information on your specific situation.
Can students currently on other visa types studying in the US apply for the programme?: No, you are not permitted to change visa classes while in the US; you would need to return to your country of permanent residence in order to apply for a new visa. The US Embassy/Consulate may query you on why you wish to spend so much time in the US.
Can applicants take up unpaid positions as interns in the US?: Yes, however they must be able to provide firm evidence that they will have access to at least USD$750 per month in order to support themselves throughout the entire period of their stay in the US. This can be in the form of a guarantor in Ireland or through proof of savings. Please note you CANNOT hold any other employment while in the US to fund your stay (i.e. in bars/restaurants,etc).
Are students who have taken a year-out eligible for the programme?: Yes and No. Students whose course contains a mandatory period of work experience are eligible for the 12 month Work USA Programme provided they apply for the programme while still enrolled as a part-time or full-time student and/or their university still considers them enrolled as a part-time or full-time student during this period. Your college must confirm this on page 6 of your application.
If I'm on the US Summer Work and Travel Programme and I want to stay on in the US, can I apply to go directly on the 12 month Work USA Programme?: NO! As with the US Summer Work & Travel Programme, the 12 month Work USA visa is a J1 class visa, and it is not possible to have two J1 visas running back to back concurrently. As such, if a participant on the US Summer Work & Travel Programme wants to apply for the 12 month Work USA programme, they must return home to Ireland to do so. You can however potentially be returning on the 12 month programme in 6-8 weeks. Some hiatus rules apply in certain situations i.e. returning to the same employer. You can email workusa@usit.ie for more information on your specific situation.
I am participating on/have completed a part-time Level 6 FAS Course. Am I eligible?: We have received clarification from the US Embassy in Dublin regarding FAS course eligibility for the 12 Month USA programme. If your course is at least Level 6 Major on the National Framework of Qualifications Ireland, you have an Irish passport, are over 18 and have received your qualification within the past 12 months, we can now consider you eligible for the 12 month USA Programme. Because of the nature of your course, you must actually receive your entire qualification (certificate) before you are allowed to apply for the programme. If you are currently studying on a FAS course, you must wait until you receive your certificate or parchment to apply for the programme. Please also note that visa approval is made at the discretion of the US Embassy Dublin. Final decision will rest with the interviewing officer as to whether or not you will receive your visa.
I want to bring my partner/spouse and/or children to the US with me. Is this okay?: Unfortunately no. You cannot make an application for any dependents to accompany you on the 12 Month USA programme. They can go and visit you on a holiday visa, but cannot stay with you for the duration of your visa.

Payment

When do I have to pay for my programme fee? For my insurance? For my flights?: You must pay your programme, and SEVIS fees at time of application. You will need to book and pay for your flights and Insurance once you have received notification from USIT that your DS-2019 has been issued at the absolute latest. We are unable to release your DS-2019 to you until your flights and insurance have been booked and paid in full - failure to do this could delay your US Embassy appointment and ultimately your departure for the US. Make sure that when booking your flight you are aware of all restrictions on your ticket!
Why do I have to pay a visa fee also?: The Visa Application Fee is a separate fee that the US State Department requires from you in order for them to process your paperwork. This fee is paid directly to the US Embassy and has nothing to do with either USIT or CIEE.
What does the programme fee cover?: See above. General, Q3.
What is the SEVIS fee? Do I have to pay it?: SEVIS stands for Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. SEVIS was implemented post 9/11 in order to allow the US Government to track the location of all participants on student exchange based programmes, including the 12 month Work USAprogramme. The system is now fully implemented and the US Government has levied a fee to cover the administrative costs of the system. You must pay this fee in order to obtain your J1 visa from the US Embassy/Consulate. USIT/CIEE arrange payment for you and will supply you with a SEVIS receipt (I-797 or I-901) with your DS-2019 before your appointment with the US Embassy/Consulate.
How long before I get my visa?: The processing time is generally 6 to 8 weeks, however it can take more or less time depending on your individual application. You should receive your DS-2019 about 2 weeks before your US Embassy/Consulate appointment, provided you have booked your flights, and your J1 Visa within 5 business days of your Interview.

Financial Support Evidence

Why do I have to submit a bank statement to the US Embassy/Consulate?: You must submit a bank statement to the US Embassy/Consulate and at US Immigration in order to prove that you can support yourself and will not pose a burden on the US Government. Keep in mind that you should have sufficient start up funds (min $1500) as your first pay cheque may not become available to you until you've been there for a little while.
I do not have a current account bank statement but I have a Visa credit limit of more than €400. Is that OK?: Unfortunately no, the US Government feels a bank statement is the best and most accurate way of reflecting your financial status. Please ask your bank to provide you with a bank statement before you attend your Interview at the US Embassy. Your statement should be dated within the last 30 days.
Will I still need to show proof of funds to US Immigration?: Yes, US immigration can decide to allow or not allow you into the US even if the US Embassy has granted your visa, so we recommend that you have another set of these documents when going through US Immigration.

Passport

What if I don't have a valid passport at the time of application?: You MUST have a valid passport at the time of application. We will need to check the dates of your passport, which must remain valid throughout your stay in the US. We also have to match your passport to all of your documents in order to have your DS-2019 printed correctly.
My passport validity will expire while I am in the US? Is that OK?: No your passport must be valid for your entire stay. If it is not you will need to apply for a new passport with the appropriate validity before you submit your application for the programme.
My passport has been stolen and I only have an emergency 1-year replacement passport. Can I go in the US with it?: No, your passport must be valid for the full 12 month validity of your 12 month Work USA visa.Without a valid passport we are unable to process your application.
I'm in America and I've lost my passport - what do I do?: It is essential you carry your important documents (passport, DS-2019, etc) with you at all times. However, in the case of lost or stolen documents please follow the steps below.
Passport: Contact your closest Consulate/Embassy for a new passport.
If you require more information on how to acquire new documents that have been lost or stolen please contact CIEE on 1-888-268-6245 or USIT at workusa@usit.ie

Visa

When do I get my visa?: After you have received your DS2019, you will need to attend an Interview at the US Embassy/Consulate where they will vet your application and issue your Visa if it is approved. The US Embassy (generally within 5 days of your Interview) will post your documents to you. USIT arranges your interview for you if you are residing in the Republic of Ireland - you will be notified of this in your Welcome Pack. If you are a Northern Ireland applicant you will have to arrange your own interview, details on how to do this will be in your Welcome Pack.
How do I apply for my J-1 visa?: Once your DS2019 has been issued you will attend a scheduled interview at the US Embassy/Consulate. USIT will arrange your appointment for you and will notify you of your appointment date and time in the cover letter to your 'Welcome Pack'. Your 'Welcome Pack' will be sent to you shortly after we receive your completed documents and will detail the documents and information required for your US Embassy/Consulate interview. Your DS-2019 will be issued to you shortly before your appointment date provided you have booked and paid for your flights and insurance and there have not been any delays in processing your application.
I am going to the US for 12 months, do I really need Return Evidence at the US Embassy?: Yes, the US Embassy/Consulate require that all participants supply a letter of Return Evidence to illustrate that they are returning to Ireland once your programme is completed. This can be a letter showing an intention to return to studies or to a job here in Ireland. You MUST have this, if you do not your application will be rejected. This programme is a temporary exchange visitor programme and should not be viewed as a springboard to stay in the US permanently.
What is a DS-2019 form?: It is the 'Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor J-1 Status', which is the document that entitles you to apply for a J1 Visa. You cannot obtain a J1 Visa without a DS-2019. Similarly your J-1 visa is not valid without your DS-2019. Only the two documents together grant you permission to live and work in the US.
Should I keep a copy of my DS-2019 while I am in the US?: YES! You must keep your original DS2019 in a safe place and with you throughout your stay in the US and you will need to take it with you if you travel outside of the country. We also recommend that you keep a photocopy of this and all of your travel documents in a safe place just in case something happens to them.
I have lost my DS-2019. Does it matter?: YES! If you lose your DS2019 while you are still in Ireland contact USIT straight away and we will arrange getting a replacement for you. If you lose it while you are in the US you will need to contact CIEE straight away. You may have to pay a fee for the issuance of a new document.
How long can I stay on a J-1 12 month Work USA visa?: You can avail of a J-1 12 month Work USA visa for a maximum of 12 months. The 12 months is the maximum period you can spend in the US.
Can participants apply to extend their period of internship after they've travelled out to the US?: The 12 month Work USA programme is valid for 12 months and your work papers will reflect this. You cannot extend past 12 months.
Can I apply directly to the US Embassy?: No. You must be a registered participant on a US Government authorised work exchange programme or have other official US Visa documentation for other visa types. The US Embassy does not issue work visas (J1) without the necessary Work Authorisation from a US Government approved legal sponsor. CIEE is the approved legal sponsor of our programme and can issue such Authorisations - the DS-2019. Without a DS-2019 you cannot apply for a J1 visa.
Can I study in the US while on Internship visa?: No. The regulations on this programme do not allow you to study at a US institution while there.

Immigration & Travel

May participants leave the US during their period on the programme?: Provided you have a valid multiple entry J-1 visa stamped into your passport you may leave and return to the USA as many times as you wish as long as you get your DS-2019 signed before departure or obtain a 'letter of good standing' from CIEE. Please also note that your DS-2019, J-1 visa, and passport must be valid in order to re-enter the U.S. Lastly, make sure it states 'M' under 'Entries' on your J-1 Visa. If it states 'S' or '1,' you will not be able to re-enter the U.S. to finish your trainee program. Please check your visa before you depart for the US and be sure to raise any questions on this by emailing workusa@usit.ie
Can I go to Canada / Mexico for a few days?: Yes, but you will have to follow the procedures outlined above as these rules apply to any travel outside the US.
Can I come back home for a holiday during my internship?: Yes, but you will have to follow the procedures outlined above as these rules apply to any travel outside the US and you will have to do this before your DS-2019 and J1 visa expiry dates. Please note, if you return to Ireland your insurance will not cover you for your stay in Ireland. Any trip home over 21 days will invalidate your insurance altogether and you will have to purchase a new insurance policy before you return to the us.
If I leave America, during my 12 month Work USA visa, on a holiday how long can I remain outside of America?: Any trip outside of America during your 12 month Work USA Visa can not be for more than 30 consecutive days. If you remain outside of America for over 21 days your insurance will invalidate altogether and you will have to purchase a new insurance policy before you return to the US. If you stay outside the USA for 30 days or more, your DS2019 will become invalid and you will not be able to return.

Work, Social Security & Taxes

How long will I have to find a job once I arrive?: A lot of people think they only have 30 days, this is not the case. When you enter the US, you must have on your posession USD $1500, which is the equivalent of 2 months salary (the minimum amount you can earn is $750 per month). If you have not found a placement within your first 2 months, you will be asked to provide CIEE with additional statements of financial security, to show that you have enough money to support yourself while you remain in the US. Again, you will be asked to show proof that you will have access to a minimum of $750 for each month you stay in the US without working. The best advice we can offer you is that you stay in regular contact with CIEE during this time, as they are your support network while in the US.
Does the position in the US have to be an Internship placement?: The most important things you need to keep in mind when you secure a position in the USA is that it fulfils these 3 requirements:
1. The position is related to your field of study - i.e. what you studied in college
2. The training you will receive in your position is progressive - i.e. you will clearly be developing your skills and knowledge.
3. You will be well supervised and evaluated by your company.
If your position fulfils all of the above, there is no reason why CIEE, the US Sponsor would not approve it.
Do I have to have a job before I travel to the USA?: No, this programme has been designed to allow you enter the US without prior employment arrangements. If you have found a position though, this is okay, you simply have to get it approved by CIEE when you are in the USA on the programme.
My position is unpaid or I am paid less than US$750 per month. How do I show that I will be able to support myself while in the US?: With your initial job application you will need to submit an original or certified copy of a bank statement showing access to $750 multiplied by the number of months you will be in the US or a letter from a guarantor here in Ireland stating that they will support you. If you have a guarantor then the information for the US Sponsor, CIEE will need to be more detailed and you may be asked to submit bank statements or pay slips from your guarantor.
Am I allowed to hold a second job during my programme?: No. The US regulations on this programme prohibit holding any other job while you are over on this Visa. If you do so you risk losing your Sponsorship and Visa and may be deported from the US.
Are there any jobs I'm NOT allowed to do?: YES! Medical, veterinary, health, childcare and housekeeper positions are not authorised under the J-1 Internship visa. There are also some positions that fall under the US Government's Unskilled Occupation list.
My position is not paid. Is that OK?: Yes! However you must complete all of the relevant documentation on the Financial Sponsorship form and you will need to furnish the US Sponsor, CIEE with proof of funds and a letter from your financial sponsor stating the amount of money they will furnish you with and how they will get it to you while you are in the US.
Are participants on the 12 Month USA Work Programme liable for taxes in the US?: Yes, participants are responsible for paying ALL income taxes, which apply to your area. However, you do not have to pay Social Security, Medicare or Federal Unemployment Taxes.
What forms will I need to file my tax return?: Before you can file your tax return you will need to obtain a W-2 from your Host Company. US Employers are required to post these to all employees no later than 31 January every year, so you should receive this by mid-February. Make sure that your Host Company has your correct address. The 1040NR-EZ is the form you must complete for your Federal taxes. You will also need to obtain your W-2 form from your employer at the end of the year. If you paid any State or Local taxes, you will need to get any State / Local tax forms that are applicable to you - these can often be obtained via the web or through local government offices in your area of the US.
You can obtain all Federal tax forms from the IRS web site: www.irs.gov . You may also obtain the federal tax form from the American Embassy outside of the U.S. To obtain State tax forms, look in the blue pages of any local telephone book in the U.S. to find your state tax office address. Local libraries, post offices and town/city halls also may have state, federal and local tax forms.
My only compensation is room and board. Do I have to pay taxes on that?: We advise that you ask your employer for a statement at the end of your employment (I.e. W-2 or 1099 form) stating the amount of compensation for that period of time, mentioning that this was compensated through room and board. NOTE: All 12 month Work USA Programme participants should apply for a Social Security Card and file a tax return at the end of the year, regardless of whether they have received regular payment/compensation or not. This is beneficial to the participants, in case they want to come back to the U.S. in the future, so that they have proof that they followed the regulations while here on CIEE's program.
Do I have to apply for a social security number if my position is unpaid?: Yes. Whether you are paid or not you are 'employed.' The company you train with will also have to have a social security number for you for tax purposes. Plus, if you are going to return to the USA on another visa in the future, you can use the same number again.
I'm in America and I've lost my Social Security card - what do I do?: It is essential you carry your important documents (passport, DS-2019, etc) with you at all times. However, in the case of lost or stolen documents please follow the steps below.
Social Security Card: Contact your local Social Security Office to apply for a replacement card. DO NOT apply for a new card.
Can I do more than one job on the 12 Month USA Work programme?: Yes. Just not at the same time. If you find a job for 3 months, you can then move onto another job in another state or city for another 3 months, and so on. As long as there is time left on your visa and each job is related to your field of study, this is no problem!
Can I do part time work on the side during this visa, such as working in a bar at the weekends?: Unfortunately not. You are not allowed to do any part time or unskilled work on this programme.

Insurance

Do I have to buy the insurance with USIT?: Yes. Our unique Insurance Policy has been specifically tailored to meet the requirements of the US Sponsors and Government.
What does the programme insurance cover me for?: Cancellation and curtailment; Emergency Medical Responses and Repatriation; Baggage and Personal Effects; Travel Delay and Holiday Abandonment; Hijack; Missed Departure; Personal Accident; Personal Liability; Student Loan; Legal Expenses; Exam Failure; Loss of Earnings; Programme Participation Costs in certain cases where a return to Ireland is necessary; Government Travel Advice and certain Hazardous Pursuits are all things that are covered to varying degrees on the 12 month Work USA Insurance Policy. For further details or specified information regarding the policy you will need to refer to your policy.
I am booking my flight with my credit card. Do I need to buy insurance?: Yes.
Can I go with an alternative insurance?: No. You must purchase USIT's Insurance as part of this package.

Flights

Can I book my flights to anywhere in the US?: Yes, you can travel to anywhere in the US.
Can I book my flights with another travel agency?: No, you must book your flights with USIT, this is so we have all of your travel information to provide to the US Government and Sponsors, as well as the Insurance provider. It's also more beneficial as you can purchase tickets that can be changed for a nominal fee in case you run into problems with obtaining all of the necessary paperwork to travel on your position. Make sure that you are aware of all fees and rules that may apply to your specific ticket.
I am entitled to concession travel because a member of my family works for an airline. Is that okay?: Unfortunately no. You are not permitted to travel on concession flights as per 12 Month USA Work Programme regulations. You must purchase your flights through USIT.