Required Paperwork (US Govt.)

You are going to hear several terms for different forms etc. during the process:

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. The organization we work with, 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

VISA Application/Processing

Required Paperwork (Employer)

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 created 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.