1. Go to the USA
  2. Intern or Train in the USA
  3. Experience Guide
  4. Before You Travel
  5. Travel Preparation
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Travel Preparation

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Before you leave for the U.S., there are lots of details to consider: important documents you will need, items to bring with you, travel and living arrangements, and more. To get you started, here is a list of tasks you must complete before departing:

  • Obtain a passport for yourself (and dependents, if applicable)
  • Secure a visa for yourself (and dependents, if applicable)
  • Research housing options
  • Visit your doctor and dentist for a final checkup
  • Make your travel arrangements
  • Complete your CIEE online orientation

For more information about things to consider before leaving for the U.S., continue reading below:

Visa Application and Interview

Once CIEE has approved your application and training plan, you can now apply for your visa. Your international representative can help you understand the local embassy process.

  1. Complete your Online Non-Immigrant Visa Application (DS-160 Form). Completing this application will allow you to schedule your visa interview appointment with your nearest US Embassy or Consulate.  

  2. Schedule your visa interview. 

    Before scheduling your appointment, you will be required to pay a $185 application fee. 

    Visa appointment wait times vary drastically by embassy/consulate. Please check this website for estimated wait times!

  3. Attend your visa interview and bring the following:
  • DS-2019  
  • I-901 SEVIS Receipt Document  
  • DS-7002  
  • Proof of financial means  
  • Your passport and any additional items required by your U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

For more information on the visa interview and documents, please visit the U.S. Department of State’s BridgeUSA website.

Healthcare

Make sure you visit your doctor and dentist before you depart. Routine examinations and dental care may not be included in your health insurance. If you take prescription medication, bring a supply that will last for your entire stay in the U.S., along with a doctor’s note listing your prescriptions and why you need them. You will need this information if you need to see a doctor while in the U.S.

Learn more about CIEE medical insurance.

Proof of Finances

You are responsible for all your living expenses while in the U.S. When you arrive, U.S. Customs may require proof that you have a suitable amount of money. Acceptable proof includes cash and/or current bank statements.

Scheduling Your Flight

We recommend that you wait until your J-1 visa is issued before scheduling your flight to the United States. Please be advised that final approval of your J-1 Visa is at the discretion of the U.S. Embassy/Consulate.  

CIEE is not responsible for the cost of airfare. We recommend that you insure your flights in case travel plans change. 

You are permitted to legally enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the start date listed on your DS-2019. This is to help you have time to settle into your new surroundings, begin the process of applying for a Social Security number, and to travel the U.S. for leisure before your busy training program.

Please Note: You may not legally participate in your training program until the program start date listed on your DS-2019.

Review Your Passport and Visa

  • Confirm that your passport is valid for entry to the United States. The passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected stay.
  • Confirm that the visa stamp in your passport will not expire before you plan to arrive in the U.S. The visa stamp issued by the U.S. Embassy/Consulate allows you to legally enter the U.S. in the specific immigration category (J-1 Intern or Trainee) during the validity dates listed.