Visas
Work and Travel USA: how it works, who can join and alternatives
Understand Work and Travel (J-1 visa): who can take part, how long it lasts, how to choose an authorized agency and what to do if you are not a student.
Work and Travel is an exchange program, on a J-1 visa, that lets university students work in the United States during their course break. It is not a visa to live or build a career in the US: it is a short work-and-travel experience.
Quick answer: the program is for higher-education students enrolled outside the US, for a few months, during the break. Participation goes through a sponsor agency authorized by the Department of State. If you are not a student, another path, such as the H-2A, may make more sense.
Who can take part
Under Department of State rules, participants must be enrolled full time in a classroom-based higher-education course outside the US, be at least 18 and have completed at least one term of the course. Final-year students may qualify if they apply before graduating. You also need enough English to talk to customers and supervisors.
How long it lasts
The program takes place over a few months, within the course break. The maximum length and dates depend on the current rules and the agency, so confirm on the official website before counting on a period.
