Can South African students do J-1 Summer Work Travel?

Yes. South African university students take part every year. Your agent or sponsor will tell you whether your program needs a prearranged job.

When should I start applying?

Most students start in the middle of the year before they travel. Employer interviews, the DS-2019 and visa appointments all take time, and the best jobs go early.

Can I travel after the program?

Yes, during the 30 day grace period after your program end date you can travel in the United States, but you cannot work.

Is my job guaranteed?

No agent or preparation service can guarantee a job or a visa. A strong CV, good interview practice and complete documents improve your chances.

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Program guide

J-1 Summer Work Travel requirements

The J-1 Summer Work Travel program lets full time university students from outside the United States work and travel there during their long summer vacation. It is run by U.S. Department of State designated sponsors, often through a local agent. Here is what you need to qualify and what to expect.

Who can apply

You are a full time student at a recognised post secondary school outside the United States, and you have completed at least one semester or equivalent. Many sponsors want proof that you are returning to your studies.
You will travel during your official long vacation break, which for South African students is the December to February summer break.
Your English is good enough to work and live in the United States. Sponsors check this, often in an interview.
You meet your sponsor's own age and eligibility rules. Requirements vary by sponsor, so ask yours for their list.

How it works, step by step

Choose a designated sponsor, usually through a local agent, and apply.
Interview with host employers and accept a job offer. Most participants are prearranged; some sponsors allow self placement for eligible countries.
Your sponsor issues your DS-2019 form.
Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee and the visa application fee, complete the DS-160 and book your visa interview.
Attend the interview, get your visa, then book flights and insurance if your sponsor does not include it.
When you arrive, contact your sponsor straight away so your SEVIS record is validated.

Fees to plan for

See our guide on how much money you need for a J-1 summer for a full budget.

Program fee to your sponsor or agent. This varies a lot, so get a written quote that says what is included.
Visa application fee, paid before your interview. Check the current amount on the official U.S. visa site.
I-901 SEVIS fee, paid online at the official fmjfee.com site. Keep the receipt.
Return flights, travel and health insurance (if not included), and money for your first weeks.

Rules once you are there

Work only for employers your sponsor has approved, and tell your sponsor about any change of job or address.
Keep your sponsor updated and answer their check ins. Your SEVIS record depends on it.
Stay within your program dates on the DS-2019.
After your program ends there is a 30 day grace period for travel and getting ready to leave. You may not work during it.

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Questions people ask

Can South African students do J-1 Summer Work Travel?: Yes. South African university students take part every year. Your agent or sponsor will tell you whether your program needs a prearranged job.
When should I start applying?: Most students start in the middle of the year before they travel. Employer interviews, the DS-2019 and visa appointments all take time, and the best jobs go early.
Can I travel after the program?: Yes, during the 30 day grace period after your program end date you can travel in the United States, but you cannot work.
Is my job guaranteed?: No agent or preparation service can guarantee a job or a visa. A strong CV, good interview practice and complete documents improve your chances.

General guidance only, not legal advice. Rules, fees and dates change. Always confirm with your sponsor, your employer and the official government site before you act.