Work and Travel USA - FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about the program

For how long can I work and live in the USA?

The Work and Travel programme allows you to work for a maximum of 4 months between May and October. After that there is a 30 days grace period for travel. You need to leave the USA within 30 days of your DS – 2019 form expiration date.

What kind of documents should I have with me at the USA airport?

The Immigration Officer will request the following documents:

• Valid passport with J-1 visa and the envelope with your DS – 2019 form,
• I-94 card, which you receive to fill out,
• Return ticket and money (about 500 USD) or credit card.

What should I do if I lose my documents?

You should make at least one copy of all your documents (passport, visa, driving licence etc.) before your departure! After you arrive in the USA, you should also make a copy of your DS – 2019 form (after the envelope was opened). We recommend to keep only the copies with you and leave the original documents in a safe place. If you lose your passport or DS – 2019 form, you should immediately contact your program sponsor and the embassy of your country.

Do I have to pay taxes in the USA and can I claim my taxes and get a tax refund?

Yes. All the states of USA require paying taxes. You will be paying federal tax (about 15%), state tax (about 5%) and sometimes city tax – this depends on which city you are working in. When you come back, at the beginning of the next year you can claim your taxes and get your refund. Global Choices will assist you with the process.

Am I allowed to travel to Canada and Mexico with my J-1 visa?

You don’t need a Mexican visa to travel to Mexico, but you must contact your program sponsor to stamp your DS – 2019. If you want to travel to Canada you must apply for a Canadian visa in your home country.

Can I travel outside of the US during the 30-day travel period at the end of the program?

No! If you leave the US during the 30-day period, you will not be readmitted because your J – 1 visa has expired.

Can I open a bank account in the USA?

Yes. To open a bank account you will need your Social Security Number, passport, visa and DS -2019 form.

What kind of driving licence should I have to drive a car in the USA?

There are different requirements in different states. Some of the states will accept your home country driving licence and some of them will only accept an international driving licence. We recommend having both documents.

Are there any requirements to be eligible to rent a car in the USA?

In most cases you must be at least 25 years old, have a driving licence and credit card to cover the expenses. Sometimes the age limit is reduced to 21, but there might be an extra fee.

What is the Social Security Number?

The Social Security Number is your identity number in the USA. You have the same number for your whole life. The number is required in order to start a job, open a bank account or buy a car insurance.