J-1 Internship & Trainee · Up to 12 months

    Train at top Miami host employers. Build a U.S. resume that travels.

    Paid J-1 visa internships and trainee placements across 200+ vetted host employers in the USA - 5-star resorts, luxury hotels, high-end restaurants. Visa, insurance, and 24/7 support - handled.

    Paid program·$15 to $27/hrtypical hourly pay
    Job offer included We find your host company in the USA. Placement is included in your J-1 Internship or Trainee program.

    Not sure yet? Check your eligibility for free

    Free CV review and J-1 application

    Ready to apply now?Apply (paid application, $99 to start)

    Priority tracks for EU, UK, Swiss, Canadian, and Australian passport holders. Open to all nationalities.

    25+

    Years in J-1 cultural exchange

    200+

    Host employers in our network

    Internship Program· Trainee Program

    GCB recruits, screens, and matches you with a vetted host employer, preps you for the visa interview, and supports you from application through arrival. AJ1 handles compliance, insurance, and visa documents (TIPP, DS-2019) - every step of your J-1 journey covered end to end.

    6 to 12 months
    paid program duration
    $15 to $27/hr
    hourly pay range
    EU passport holders
    UK, Swiss, CA, AU welcome
    25+ years
    in J-1 cultural exchange

    A legitimate U.S. State Department program. Not a job board.

    The J-1 Cultural Exchange Visa is a federally sponsored visa program operated by the U.S. Department of State. Our team coordinates the application, host matching, designated sponsor placement, and visa interview prep. With 25+ years in J-1 cultural exchange, we facilitate 6 to 12 month paid programs across Miami hotels, restaurants, and country clubs in culinary, hospitality, and business administration tracks.

    Federally sponsored J-1 visa
    6 to 12 month paid training in Miami
    Personal coordination end to end

    Stipend Covers Your Living Costs

    Your J-1 stipend (typically $15-$27/hour, paid bi-weekly by your U.S. host employer) is designed to cover housing, food, and transportation during the cultural exchange. The fees you pay GCB cover placement and visa support. Your U.S. host employer pays you for your work once you arrive.

    • Paid positions ($15-$27/hr)
    • Bi-weekly U.S. paychecks
    • Stipend covers rent, food, transport
    • Housing is usually participant-paid (some hosts include or subsidize it)
    Calculate your Miami living costs →

    U.S. Department of State authorized

    Your J-1 visa is issued through our designated U.S. sponsor under the State Department's J-1 Exchange Visitor Program. Our team handles candidate matching and program coordination; our designated sponsor handles compliance, insurance, and DS-2019 issuance.

    35,000+ placements

    Our placement team brings combined experience across 25+ years of European to U.S. cultural exchange. We place candidates from around the world into 200+ vetted host employers.

    Phase 1 capped at $297

    $99/month covers placement work as we do it (not refunded). Prefer a refund guarantee? Pay $199 once, refunded in full if we can't place you within 3 months.

    See pricing →

    Book a free 30-minute call

    A 30-minute video call with eligibility screening and answers to your J-1 questions. EU and U.S. time zones supported. No commitment.

    Book a call →

    Our Host Network

    Vetted U.S. host employer network

    We do not publicly disclose specific host employer names. Once your profile is finalized, we share it with our host employer network - interested employers reach out to schedule interviews.

    Our Programs

    Choose Your Path to the USA

    All programs offer J-1 visa sponsorship, comprehensive support, and an unforgettable American experience.

    See where we can place you

    J-1 Internship

    For Students & Recent Graduates

    The J-1 Internship is a U.S. Department of State-authorized cultural exchange program that allows university students and recent graduates to gain hands-on professional experience at a U.S. host company in their field of study.

    Duration: 3 to 12 months

    Eligibility Requirements:

    • Currently enrolled in a university/college OR
    • Graduated within the last 12 months
    • Must have relevant academic background
    Pay Rate: $15-$27/hr

    Hospitality & Culinary:

    Front Office Rotation
    Culinary Arts
    Food & Beverage Rotation
    Pastry & Bakery
    Rooms Division
    Hospitality Rotational
    Event & Banquet Operations
    Reservations & Revenue

    Non-Hospitality:

    Human Resources
    Marketing & Sales
    Accounting & Finance
    Business Management
    Engineering
    Apply for J-1 Internship

    J-1 Trainee

    For Young Professionals

    The J-1 Trainee is a U.S. Department of State-authorized cultural exchange program designed for professionals who want to enhance their expertise through structured training at a U.S. host company in their career field.

    Duration: Up to 12 months (Hospitality) · Up to 18 months (Non-Hospitality)

    Eligibility Requirements:

    • Degree + 1 year of work experience OR
    • 5+ years of work experience in your field
    • Relevant professional background required
    Pay Rate: $15-$27/hr

    Hospitality & Culinary:

    Front Office Rotation
    Culinary Arts
    Food & Beverage Rotation
    Pastry & Bakery
    Rooms Division
    Hospitality Rotational
    Event & Banquet Operations
    Reservations & Revenue
    Housekeeping Supervisory

    Non-Hospitality:

    Human Resources
    Marketing & Sales
    Accounting & Finance
    Business Management
    Engineering
    Apply for J-1 Trainee

    Official J-1 Partnership

    Backed by a U.S. Department of State designated sponsor

    GCB matches you with the host employer; our designated sponsor handles compliance, insurance and visa documents (TIPP, DS-2019) - so every step of your J-1 journey is covered end to end.

    Our Designated U.S. Sponsor

    Designated U.S. J-1 Visa Sponsor for Internship and Trainee programs.

    • DS-2019 issued by our sponsor upon placement
    • 24/7 Support in-country, throughout your program
    • Insurance & SEVIS handled end to end

    Based in Miami. Placing across Miami, Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach, Naples, and Orlando.

    Open to placements beyond Florida when the right host fits.

    Eligibility · Step 1 of 3

    Is this program for you?

    Answer 3 quick questions to see your best-fit J-1 track.

    1
    Passport
    2
    Field
    3
    Timing

    Where are you from?

    Your passport determines which placement tracks you qualify for.

    Priority track
    EU / UK / Switzerland
    Plus Canada, Australia, New Zealand
    EUUKCHCAAUNZ
    Eligibility check
    ~60 sec
    Other country
    Rest of world - eligibility varies by passport
    Eligibility check
    ~60 sec

    Not sure which applies? Email a recruiter info@gcbeurope.cominfo@globalcareerbridge.com and we'll point you to the right track.

    Miami, FL · 25.7617° N
    Why Miami

    Train at world-class hospitality brands. Live Miami like a local.

    Miami is a flagship U.S. hospitality market. Forbes 5-Star resorts on the beach, high-end restaurants in Wynwood, ocean-view rooftops in Brickell. You will train at vetted host employers across 4 and 5-star resorts, branded hotels, and high-end restaurants in South Florida that put real weight on your CV, alongside colleagues from 50+ countries. Then clock out, hit the beach, and live the South Florida lifestyle most people only see on Instagram.

    Forbes 5-Star resorts and high-end kitchens50+ nationalities, English-first workplace80°F year-round, beach + Cuban food + nightlife
    150+
    Nationalities living here
    75°F
    Average winter temp
    300+
    Sunny days per year
    3rd
    Largest U.S. tourism economy

    Tourist for a week. Local for a year.

    The difference between visiting Miami and actually living it.

    The big one
    Your role in the U.S.
    Tourist
    Sightseeing from the outside
    You
    Real responsibility inside a top U.S. employer - working alongside Americans, not watching them
    Your living costs
    Tourist
    -€2,500 burned in one week
    You
    Your U.S. stipend covers rent, food, and your days off exploring Miami
    Where you sleep
    Tourist
    Hostel bunk or $300/night for a week
    You
    A shared apartment with friends - your real Miami address for a year
    Your days off
    Tourist
    Tour-bus checklist on a Saturday
    You
    Tuesday beach days, Wednesday Everglades, Thursday brunch - hospitality runs on weekends, so your real Miami life happens mid-week
    Your network
    Tourist
    7 strangers you'll never see again
    You
    U.S. mentors plus trainee friends from 30+ countries - a global network that still takes your call in 5 years
    What you take home
    Tourist
    Photos, a sunburn, and the same job back home
    You
    Fluent professional English, a U.S. résumé, real career momentum

    What comes next is your call. Another job, school, your own business, even cabin crew. Your U.S. résumé travels with you.

    J-1 is a U.S. State Department cultural exchange program. The stipend supports your living costs during the program.

    See which path is yours

    Start for $99. Total capped at $297.

    Sofia M.
    CZCzech Republic
    F&B Trainee at a Miami Beach 5-star resort

    "I came expecting a job. I left with a shared apartment full of friends from five different countries, a U.S. mentor who still writes my references, and English so good my European employer thought I'd lived in America for years. Miami didn't feel like a placement - it felt like my second home."

    12-month J-1 Trainee · Now Assistant F&B Manager at a 5-star hotel in Prague

    Start your Miami chapter

    Start for $99/month (capped at $297) or pay $199 once. Refund available on the $199 option if we can't place you.

    Cultural Exchange Mission

    BridgeUSA is the official U.S. Department of State program that authorizes cultural exchange visits to the United States. It ensures all J-1 placements meet federal standards for training quality, participant welfare, and cultural exchange goals.

    Through BridgeUSA, J-1 programs promote mutual understanding between cultures via structured training, professional development, and meaningful intercultural exchange that benefits both participants and host organizations.

    For Participants

    Gain real-world skills, cross-cultural competence, and professional growth in the U.S.

    For Host Organizations

    Welcome motivated international talent who bring fresh perspectives and cultural diversity.

    Cultural Exchange Program

    Why Join Our Programs?

    Whether you're pursuing an Internship, Trainee, or Summer Work & Travel program - here's why thousands of candidates choose us every year.

    Cultural Exchange

    BridgeUSA J-1 programs are built around mutual understanding between cultures. Through structured training and meaningful intercultural exchange, you grow both professionally and personally.

    All Programs

    Career Growth

    Enhance your resume with real U.S. work experience and professional skills.

    InternshipTrainee

    Build Connections

    Network with professionals and make lifelong international friendships.

    All Programs

    Official Program

    U.S. Department of State authorized J-1 visa with full legal work rights.

    All Programs

    Stipend Covers Living Costs

    Your $15-$27/hr stipend is designed to cover rent, food, and transport during your cultural exchange.

    All Programs

    Summer Adventure

    Turn your summer break into a life-changing American experience with 30 days to travel.

    SWT

    Your Investment in Growth

    Our programs enable students, recent graduates, and young professionals to complete a paid professional placement with U.S. employers. Whether it's a 12-month internship, a structured trainee program, or a summer of seasonal work - you'll develop practical skills that employers value, work alongside industry professionals, and return home with a resume that sets you apart from your peers.

    The programs are organized by U.S. institutions known as "sponsoring organizations," authorized by the U.S. Department of State. These organizations are empowered by the U.S. government to run BridgeUSA J-1 exchange programs designed to promote mutual understanding between cultures through structured training, professional development, and meaningful intercultural exchange - enabling participants to work legally in the United States.

    After completing your program, you'll enjoy a 30-day Grace Period to travel across the country, explore iconic destinations, and fully experience what makes American culture so unique.

    Beyond professional growth, you'll build meaningful connections with American colleagues and fellow participants from around the world. Many of these relationships turn into lifelong friendships that extend far beyond the program. It's the perfect way to apply your knowledge in a real-world setting, improve your language abilities, expand your global network, and most importantly, live the adventure of your life!

    Important Program Details:

    Program Duration

    Internship: 3-12 months · Trainee: up to 12 months (Hospitality) or 18 months (Non-Hospitality) · SWT: up to 4 months

    Health Insurance Included

    Coverage meeting U.S. Department of State requirements

    30-Day Grace Period

    Travel across the U.S. after your program ends

    Housing is Participant-Paid

    Your earnings cover rent and living expenses

    How It Works

    Your Journey to the USA

    From application to arrival - 6 simple stages to your American adventure

    Show All Details
    1
    Stage 13 steps

    Apply & Submit

    Complete your application, pay the application fee, and get your initial eligibility confirmed.

    Start Your Application

    Apply - Click Apply to begin your journey. Complete the application form and - if applicable - pay the application fee to secure your spot. View Pricing Options -->

    Application Submission

    Submit your application using the instructions provided by GCB. Our team reviews your materials and follows up with next steps.

    Initial Review & Eligibility

    GCB reviews your submitted materials to validate eligibility and confirms whether your candidacy may proceed.

    2
    Stage 23 steps

    Interview & Profile Setup

    Complete your video interview with GCB, finalize your candidate profile, and get listed for Host Employers.

    Video Interview with GCB

    Complete a video interview and Q&A with a GCB representative to discuss your goals, experience, and preferences.

    Portal Invite & Video Presentation

    You are invited to our candidate portal to finalize your application and record a professional video presentation for Host Employers.

    Profile Listed for Host Employers

    Your completed profile is added to our open candidate list and made available to interested U.S. Host Employers.

    3
    Stage 33 steps

    Host Company Matching

    Your profile is presented to Host Employers, interested companies schedule interviews, and you receive your placement. Matching can take 2 weeks to 3 months.

    Profile Presented to Host Employers

    GCB actively presents your profile to prospective Host Companies based on location, role, timing, and suitability.

    Host Employer Video Interview

    Interested Host Employers schedule a video call directly with you to discuss the role, expectations, and fit.

    Host Company Selection & Acceptance

    The Host Company selects and accepts you for the position, providing job-offer details including role, wage, and expected hours.

    4
    Stage 43 steps

    Offer & Program Fees

    Sign your job offer, begin the J-1 Visa Sponsor process, and complete program fee payments.

    Sign Job Offer and Phase 2 Addendum

    Review and sign the Host Company job offer and the Placement Confirmation and Payment Terms Addendum (your Phase 2 commitment to a specific host and payment model). Your application-stage Terms were signed at Stage 1, right after payment.

    J-1 Visa Sponsor Process Begins

    GCB initiates the J-1 Visa Sponsor process, aligning the placement with a designated J-1 Visa Sponsor. The matching stage is now complete.

    Program Fee Payments

    Complete all program fee payments in accordance with the selected Payment Option schedule.

    5
    Stage 53 steps

    Visa & Documentation

    Finalize your training plan, complete sponsor documentation, and receive your DS-2019 for the visa interview.

    Training Plan (DS-7002)

    The Training/Internship Plan is drafted based on your Host Company training structure, then reviewed and signed by all parties.

    Sponsor Documentation

    Complete all required documentation for the J-1 Visa Sponsor, including standard compliance materials.

    DS-2019 Issuance

    Once your documentation is complete, your J-1 Sponsor issues your Form DS-2019.

    6
    Stage 62 steps

    Visa & Travel

    Schedule your embassy appointment, prepare for the visa interview, and book your travel to the U.S.

    Visa Appointment & Preparation

    Schedule your visa appointment at the U.S. embassy. We run a 1:1 prep call before your interview to coach you on the questions consular officers actually ask, including the tricky 'what is your plan after the program?' question. Most of our candidates walk in over-prepared.

    Travel Arrangements

    After your visa is issued, coordinate arrival details with GCB and the Host Company, then book your air travel.

    Housing, straight talk

    Housing included

    Country clubs and golf-course resorts (usually outside city centers) often arrange housing and transport for interns & trainees. Move-in ready.

    Housing on you

    City-center five-star hotels (Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale, downtown Miami) and most urban properties do not provide housing. Plan on a shared apartment with other J-1 participants - budget around $800-$1,200/month for a shared room.

    Either way

    GCB and the host employer share housing leads, practical search tips, and roommate connections with other candidates when available, so you have support during the process.

    Two-phase pricing

    Pay $199 once, fully refundable in 2 cases: we cannot place you in 3 months, or you decline a placement we propose. Prefer monthly? Spread your application fee across $99/month, capped at $297.

    See full pricing
    Success Stories

    Hear From Our Participants

    35,000+ EU professionals have launched their U.S. hospitality & culinary careers through our team's programs

    "My front desk internship at a luxury resort in Miami was life-changing! GCB made the entire process seamless - from visa support to placement. I gained invaluable hospitality skills and guest relations experience."

    Sofia Martinez

    Front Desk Intern

    ESSpain

    "The trainee program exceeded all my expectations. Working at a luxury resort in South Florida gave me skills and confidence I couldn't have gained anywhere else. The food & beverage training was world-class."

    Marco Rossi

    Hospitality Trainee

    ITItaly

    "Working in a professional American kitchen was a dream come true. From visa support to finding the perfect culinary placement, the team was with me every step of the way. I'm now a sous chef back in Berlin!"

    Emma Schmidt

    Culinary Intern

    DEGermany

    Ready to start your own success story?

    Start Your Application
    FAQ

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Find answers to common questions about our programs

    Internship & Trainee

    Money & Refunds: Is the $99/month option refundable?

    The $99/month option lets you start without paying $199 upfront. It activates your file, covers your eligibility review, profile prep, and matching. Monthly payments are non-refundable. If you want a refundable option, pick the one-time $199 Application Fee.

    Money & Refunds: Is the one-time $199 Application Fee refundable?

    Yes, the $199 is refundable in two cases: (1) we cannot place you within the matching period, or (2) you review or interview for a proposed placement and decide not to accept it. You always get to review the role, location, stipend, housing situation, and program details before deciding.

    Money & Refunds: When is the $199 Application Fee NOT refundable?

    The $199 is not refundable if the non-placement is your fault: withdrawing before the matching period ends, not responding to messages, missing interviews, not providing required documents, giving inaccurate or incomplete information, becoming ineligible, or changing your availability or plans in a way that prevents matching.

    Matching & Choice: How long does matching take?

    Up to 3 months from when your profile is complete and active. Some candidates match faster. Timing depends on your background, English level, availability, preferred location, program length, department, and current host company needs. Longer programs (6 to 12 months) are usually easier to match.

    Matching & Choice: Can I choose the host company or location?

    You share your preferences and we factor them in. This is not a job board where you pick from a list of open positions. Host employers review profiles and decide who they want to interview. Before accepting anything, you review the role, location, stipend, housing situation, program duration, and pricing.

    Matching & Choice: Am I forced to accept a placement?

    No. You are never forced to accept a placement. If a host company is interested, you interview first. If they make an offer, you review the full details before deciding. You only move forward to the sponsor and visa stage after you accept a host offer in writing.

    Eligibility & Logistics: Can non-EU candidates apply?

    Yes. Being transparent: the J-1 visa process can be more difficult and less predictable from countries outside the EU, UK, Switzerland, Canada, and Australia. The final visa decision is always made by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

    Eligibility & Logistics: How much money should I bring for arrival costs?

    Bring enough personal funds to cover your first few weeks before the first paycheck: housing deposit, first rent payment, meals, local transportation, uniform items if required, and personal expenses. The exact amount depends on location and host employer.

    What is the DS-7002 Training Plan?

    The DS-7002 is an official U.S. Department of State form that outlines your training program. It details your learning objectives, specific skills you'll develop, the phases of your training, and how you'll be supervised. This document is created collaboratively by your Host Company, GCB, and the J-1 Visa Sponsor to ensure your program provides genuine cultural exchange and professional development.

    Why is the DS-7002 important for my visa?

    The DS-7002 is a required document for J-1 visa approval. It proves to the U.S. government that your program is a legitimate training experience, not just employment. Without an approved DS-7002, you cannot receive the DS-2019 form needed to apply for your J-1 visa. It also protects you by ensuring your host company provides structured training rather than just work tasks.

    What does a typical Training Plan include?

    A DS-7002 Training Plan includes: specific learning objectives for each phase of your program, the skills and competencies you'll acquire, training methods and resources provided, your supervisor's qualifications, how your progress will be evaluated, and the cultural activities included in your experience. Each phase typically covers different aspects of your professional development.

    Can my Training Plan be modified during the program?

    Minor adjustments to your training activities are normal, but significant changes to the DS-7002 require approval from your J-1 Visa Sponsor. If your host company wants to substantially alter your role or training objectives, we must submit an amended Training Plan. This ensures your program continues to meet U.S. Department of State requirements.

    Is health insurance included?

    Yes! Health insurance coverage that meets U.S. Department of State requirements is included in the program. This covers you for the duration of your J-1 program.

    What support do you provide during the program?

    We provide 24/7 on-program support including emergency assistance, regular check-ins, and guidance for any work-related concerns. Our team in Miami is always available to help with any challenges you may face.

    Can I extend my program?

    Extensions may be possible depending on your visa category, host company agreement, and program type. However, the maximum duration for Hospitality programs is 12 months and cannot be extended beyond that period. All changes and extensions must first be approved by the J-1 Visa Sponsor. Contact us during your program to discuss your options.

    How does housing work during my program?

    Housing is participant-paid throughout the program. In some cases, the employer pre-arranges housing options for you. In other cases, we provide housing leads and guidance, but you'll need to secure housing on your own by signing a contract directly with the landlord and making the deposit payment. Important: Start your housing search only after your J-1 visa is approved to avoid any financial risk. You should also bring enough funds for emergencies and to support yourself until your first paycheck. Paychecks/direct deposits are issued every 2 weeks, with the first one typically arriving after about 3 weeks of work.

    What do I need to do in my first week in the U.S.?

    During your first week, you must complete two important steps: (1) Validate your SEVIS record, which confirms your arrival in the U.S. and activates your legal status, and (2) Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) at your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office. Your SSN is required for employment and receiving paychecks. We'll provide detailed instructions and support to help you complete both steps smoothly.

    What's cost of living like in Miami and South Florida?

    If housing is pre-arranged by the host company (HC), please note that candidates may be placed in shared accommodations, including shared rooms, depending on availability and local market conditions. Miami's cost of living varies widely by lifestyle and neighborhood. As a planning baseline, budget approximately: - $800-$1,800/month for a room or studio - $300-$500/month for groceries and dining - $100-$150/month for utilities (if not included) - $50-$100/month for phone/internet Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach generally run 10-20% lower on rent than Miami Beach or Brickell, while Naples and central Palm Beach can run higher. We recommend arriving with at least $2,500-$3,500 in savings to cover your first month's rent, security deposit, initial setup costs, and a buffer until your first paycheck.

    How do I set up a U.S. bank account?

    You can open a U.S. bank account after receiving confirmation from the Social Security Administration (SSA) that you've applied for your SSN. You'll need your passport, DS-2019 form, SSA confirmation letter, and a local address (temporary housing or employer address works). Popular banks for international visitors include Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo. Some banks may require a small initial deposit ($25-$100). Having a U.S. bank account is essential for receiving your paycheck via direct deposit and avoiding international transaction fees.

    Hours & Pay: How many hours per week will I work?

    J-1 Internship and Trainee programs are full-time by design. The average is around 40 hours per week, with a minimum of 32 hours. Actual hours vary by host employer, department, and season - some weeks may be busier (especially in hospitality high seasons) and some lighter. Your exact schedule is confirmed by the host employer before you accept the offer.

    Hours & Pay: Are tips included in the $15-$27/hour range?

    The $15-$27/hour range refers to your base hourly pay. Tips are possible in many Food & Beverage roles (servers, bartenders, banquet staff) and can meaningfully increase your take-home pay. Whether tips are kept individually or pooled depends on the host employer's policy. Tips are not guaranteed and depend on the role, venue, and season.

    Hours & Pay: How often will I get paid?

    Most host employers pay either weekly or biweekly via direct deposit to your U.S. bank account. The exact pay schedule depends on the host employer. Your first paycheck typically arrives about 3 weeks after you start working, which is why we recommend bringing enough personal funds to cover your first few weeks.

    Role & Duties: What will my exact job title and daily responsibilities be?

    Your exact job title is confirmed in the host offer and the DS-7002 Training Plan. It depends on the host employer and department - common titles include Food & Beverage Intern/Trainee, Front Office Intern/Trainee, Culinary Intern/Trainee, or similar hospitality training titles. Daily responsibilities are structured as a training program (not just work tasks): rotations across departments, hands-on learning under supervision, and specific learning objectives defined in your DS-7002. You review the full Training Plan before accepting the offer.

    Deposits: Is the $900 deposit refundable?

    The $900 deposit is not required to interview or to review host offers. It is only collected after you accept a host offer in writing and before the J-1 Visa Sponsor begins processing your file. Refund eligibility follows the program Terms & Conditions and the Payment Addendum you sign with your offer - this defines exactly what is refundable, at which stage, and under which conditions. You review and sign these documents before paying.

    Visa Refusal: What happens to my fees if my visa is refused at the U.S. Embassy?

    The U.S. Embassy or Consulate makes the final visa decision and outcomes are never guaranteed. If your visa is refused: SEVIS and visa application fees paid directly to the U.S. government are non-refundable (they are paid to the government, not to GCB or the sponsor). Refunds on the Program Fee follow the program Terms & Conditions and Payment Addendum, and depend on the stage at which the refusal occurs. We coach you through interview prep to give you the best chance of approval.

    DS-2019 Timing: When will I receive my DS-2019?

    The DS-2019 is issued after a clear sequence of steps: (1) you accept a host offer in writing, (2) you sign the program documents and Payment Addendum, (3) the host employer, GCB, and the J-1 Visa Sponsor finalize and approve your DS-7002 Training Plan, (4) the relevant stage fees are paid, and (5) the sponsor issues and ships your DS-2019. Once you have the DS-2019, you can pay your SEVIS fee, complete the DS-160, and schedule your U.S. Embassy interview. Total time from host offer to DS-2019 is typically a few weeks, depending on document turnaround.

    Which payment options are available?

    You can pay the program fee yourself before your visa documents are issued (all fields), use the Financed Payment Plan (Hospitality & Culinary, 12 months) or Payroll Deduction where the host employer offers it. The exact payment model is always confirmed in writing before you accept any host offer.

    Besides the $199 Application Fee, what other costs should I budget for before departure?

    You should budget for the SEVIS fee, the U.S. visa appointment fee, airfare to the U.S., and initial personal funds for your first few weeks (housing deposit, first rent, meals, local transportation). Depending on your placement, there may also be move-in costs. Any Program Fee or payroll-deduction model is confirmed in writing before you commit to a host offer.

    Is housing provided by the host company, subsidized, or my responsibility?

    It depends on the host employer. Some hosts provide housing directly, some help arrange or subsidize it, and in other cases housing is the participant's responsibility. The housing arrangement for your specific placement is always confirmed in writing before you accept the offer.

    If I decline a placement offer, am I still eligible for continued matching and the refund policy?

    You are never required to accept an offer that does not work for you (location, stipend, housing, or pricing model). Continued matching and refund eligibility depend on the Program Terms and Conditions, including remaining responsive, realistic, and open to suitable opportunities within the matching period.

    How long does it typically take to place a hospitality candidate?

    Hospitality profiles are usually faster to match than non-hospitality profiles, but timing varies. It can take several weeks to a few months depending on the role, location preferences, host availability, your responsiveness, and interview outcomes. Longer programs (6 to 12 months) and flexible location preferences typically match faster.

    How many host interviews does a typical candidate complete before receiving an offer?

    It varies. Some candidates receive an offer after a single interview, while others complete two or three interviews before finding the right fit. We prepare you for each interview and debrief afterwards so each round improves your chances.

    What support do you provide with the embassy interview and visa documentation?

    We provide document guidance, sponsor coordination, support through the DS-2019 and DS-7002 process, and embassy interview preparation (typical questions, what to bring, dress code, and how to present your training plan). The official J-1 Visa Sponsor issues the DS-2019 and manages the J-1 compliance side.

    Are there any extra fees to the sponsor, insurance provider, or government that are not included in the advertised pricing?

    Government fees such as the SEVIS fee and the U.S. visa appointment fee are paid separately by the participant. Mandatory J-1 health insurance that meets U.S. Department of State requirements is normally included in the J-1 sponsor program fee for the program period. Any additional costs specific to your placement are shown in writing before you commit.

    Still have questions? Apply and we'll guide you through every step.

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    Berlin

    Kollwitzstraße 76, 10435 Berlin, Germany

    Miami

    117 NE 1st Ave, 9th floor, Miami, FL 33132, USA

    St. Petersburg

    7901 4th St N, STE 300, St. Petersburg, FL 33702, USA

    Based in Miami, Florida

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    Start from $99/month (capped at $297 total, cancel anytime before placement) or pay $199 once with a 3-month no-match refund.

    "The trainee program exceeded all my expectations. Working at a luxury resort in South Florida gave me skills I couldn't have gained anywhere else."

    - Marco R., Italy

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