Did you know that Australians and New Zealanders can do a working holiday in America? If you are a recent graduate, or currently studying full-time on campus at an Australian or New Zealand TAFE, College or University, the J-1 12 Month Work and Travel program might be your perfect ticket to an unforgettable journey!
What is the J-1 12 Month Work and Travel Program?
There are a number of different Exchange visitor (J) visas that allow for temporary entry to work in the United States. They are primarily short-term visas that allow you to do a range of activities, depending on which one you qualify for.
The J-1 12 Month Work and Travel Program is a pilot program (that's been piloting for some time now) specifically for Australians and New Zealand students, current and past, to expand their horizons and explore American culture firsthand. It provides participants with opportunities to interact with Americans, share cultures and work in jobs to help fund their travel expenses.
So where can I work on a J-1 12 Month Work and Travel Program?
You can work in a single job, work in multiple jobs, work in one U.S city or work in several U.S cities! You can use a professional company to help you find a position or you can source your own position. You can source a position before or after your arrival and you can work in practically any industry like Tourism, Legal, Marketing, Communications, Media and so many more.
You have full flexibility & freedom to do what you would like to do in the USA.
What are some examples of recent jobs?
- Emily, 23-year-old from Sydney did hospitality work at a rooftop bar in New York City.
- Jack, 25-year-old from Melbourne worked as a ski lift operator in Colorado.
- Sophie, 22-year-old from Brisbane did an internship in digital marketing in Los Angeles.
- Ben, 24-year-old from Perth worked as a surf instructor in San Diego.
- Hannah, 21-year-old from Adelaide did retail sales at a fashion boutique in Chicago.
- Liam, 26-year-old from Gold Coast worked as a bartender at a resort in Miami.
- Olivia, 23-year-old from Canberra did customer service for a tech startup in San Francisco.
- Daniel, 25-year-old from Hobart worked as a server at a high-end restaurant in Las Vegas.
- Chloe, 22-year-old from Newcastle did an internship in event management in Austin.
- Ryan, 24-year-old from Darwin worked as a tour guide at a national park in Alaska.
How do I know if I qualify for the J-1 12 Month Work and Travel Program?
To be eligible for a J-1 12 Month Work and Travel Program you generally must be:
- A recent graduate of an Australian or New Zealand TAFE, College or University; or
- A current full-time, on campus Australian or New Zealand TAFE, College or University student (you must have completed the first year of your course); and
- Be able to demonstrate the financial means to support yourself during your stay in the U.S.
How much does the J-1 cost?
Program fees are approximately $759AUD or $799NZD through GROWUSA (see below).
This fee does not include insurance (which you need as a requirement) airfares, transfers, domestic transportation in the US, visa application fees, or living expenses.
Are there other options if I don't qualify for this visa?
Yes there are other J visa’s that may be more suitable. The J1 – 4 month Summer Work and Travel program and the J1 – 12 month Trainee/Intern program also provide amazing opportunities for Australian and New Zealand students.
Click here to read more about the other options for J-1 visas.
Ready to take the leap or still have questions?
If all this sounds good but you don't know where to start, you can work with a company like GROW USA. You need a sponsor to set this all up for you and GROW USA is one of the companies that can help you.
They’ll assist you with the full process including the visa application, consulate process, connections with US sponsorship organisations, employment opportunities and all insurance requirements.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity and remember to mention America Josh for a program discount!
