Home > WORK USA > How to Apply

How to Apply

We make working in the USA an easy step-by-step process!

Applying for the Work USA Month program is easy! It’s a simple step-by-step process that we will walk you through. You should give yourself a minimum of 6-10 weeks to complete the application process.

Step 1

Apply online:

Fill out our online application here.

We are just asking for your contact details, passport info (which you can skip if you don’t have a passport or if it is about to expire) and then make the application payment of $1495

After payment is made we will give you a call to welcome you to the program, make sure your eligible and send you the next round of documentation that you will need to have filled out and arrange an interview.

Step 2

In person or Skype interview:

We want to meet you and find out what your plans are for the trip! Some typical questions would be; why work in the USA, type of work you will look for, where do you want to live and so on.

Step 3

Documents sent to US:

You will return all of the documentation that we initially sent you after you submitted your application. This will be:
  • Personal Details form
  • Participant Agreement form
  • Reference forms
  • Proof of Student Status form
  • Copy of passport
  • Copy of any previous J1 Visas
We will then review these documents to ensure they are correct and batch them to be sent to the US for your work permit/DS2019.

Step 4

Visa Processing:

Your documentation has been sent to the US and now our US sponsor is processing it. This can take anywhere from 1 – 2 weeks from the date it was batched.

Step 5

Insurance & Flights:

As part of the Work USA program you already have a 12 month basic medical insurance policy to cover you for the duration of your visa. You do have the option to upgrade your policy to comprehensive cover. The upgrade will then provide cover for travel and medical for just $935 for 12 months.

STA Travel is the preferred travel agency for Work USA, and we recommend you discuss your travel plans with the STA Travel Working Holidays Branch. They have great deals and offer flexible tickets to meet your US visa requirements. You can reach them on 1300 850 485 or [email protected]

Step 6

Online Visa Application

You are provided with ‘Online Visa Instructions’ when we send you your paperwork from the US visa sponsor. You will complete the visa application, pay the US Consulate MRV fee ($160USD) visa issuance fee ($105USD) and SEVIS fee ($35USD) and then book online your US Consulate interview.

Step 7

US Consulate Interview

You will attend a US Consulate interview where they will ask you about your intentions in the US. The US Consulate will hold onto your DS2019 and passport for up to 4 business days. During this time they insert the J1 Visa that will allow you to work in the US. Your passport is then couriered back to you or you can also pick up the passport from the US Consulate in Auckland.

Step 8

Pre-departure Orientation

It is a US Consulate requirement that you attend the mandatory pre-departure orientation session with IEP once you have received your visa and prior to your departure from Australia. Pre departures can be held in person if you’re based in Melbourne or over the phone/Skype. 

The pre departure orientation covers all the vital information you need to know about living and working in the US:
  • CV format
  • Opening a bank account
  • Obtaining a tax file number
  • Tax and employment laws
  • Mobile Phones
  • Travel/Transportation
  • Much more!
After the pre-departure orientation you are free to head to the US to start your working holiday!