Organised Work Programmes in the USA

Our guide to organisations helping you get through all that American red tape!

The rules governing the ability to work in North America are stricter than in other popular backpacker destinations. Because of this, the majority of UK travellers planning to work in the USA will choose to contact a reputable company or "sponsoring agency".

The US Government has understandably tightened up their immigration laws since 2001, making it harder for you to obtain a visa to work in the country without help from an agency. The main type of visa that students wishing to work in the USA apply for is the J-1 visa, which allows you to combine work and travel. For more information on securing your visa, see our USA visa section.

Their are mainly 2 types of the J-1 Visa. The "Work and Travel" visa allows you to work temporarily in a "guest service position" - ie working in the tourist industry. The "Camp Counsellor" visa allows you to work at a summer camp. In the unlikely event that you can find work on your own from the UK and get the employer to vouch that they can't find an American citizen to do the job instead (!!), you can apply for an H category visa.

So, we think that you'll be looking for an organisation to help you, here's a few to start you off:

Recommended Companies:

Camp America. If you’re looking for adventure, excitement, friendships that last a lifetime and you’re up for a challenge – start packing for Camp America.

Visit their website

CCUSA. Summer Camp jobs and work and travel in the USA.

Visit their website

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