'USArts was extremely helpful in finding (trainees) that would suit the needs of a fine art gallery.'

Dorian Bergen, ACA Galleries, New York, NY

J1 Visa Jobs & Art Internships in USA


International Applicant - F.A.Q.
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What is the J1 Exchange Visitor Visa?

In the spirit of educational and cultural exchange between the United States and countries around the globe, the U.S. Department of State administers the Exchange Visitor Program to provide participants with opportunities for job training in their professional field for 3-18 months in the United States and then return home to share their experiences. The purpose of the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program is to provide participants with volunteer (or minimally paid) practical job training in the U.S. in a specific field of interest.



How do I apply for a J1 Exchange Visitor Visa?

To apply for the J1 Visa, start by visiting the 'How does it work' section of this website. After reading through the required steps, follow the directions for submitting an online application.

USArts will prepare the DS2019 form (entitled the Certificate of Eligibility). After receiving this document, the participant applies for a J1 visa at the American embassy or consulate in their home country. Consult your consulate website for further information or click here



If I have already trained in the U.S. on a J1 Visa, can I apply for another J1 Visa through USArts?

Yes, you may apply through USArts if your previous J1 Visa was in a non-trainee category--i.e. student, work, travel, or au pair. If you meet the USArts eligibility requirements and if you have been in the U.S. on a previous J1 visa other than trainee, you are eligible to re-enter the U.S. on a USArts J1 Visa.



What services does USArts provide?

  • An optional two-day orientation session in Washington, DC (if your training is in Washington, DC)
  • Legal sponsorship and documentation (DS2019) necessary to apply for a J1 Visa under the State Department's Exchange Visitor Program
  • Health insurance enrollment with HTH Worldwide
  • Pre-departure manual and information written and compiled by USArts Staff
  • Mentoring throughout the duration of the program



    What is the difference between a host organization and a sponsor organization?

    A sponsor organization, such as USArts, is designated by the U.S. State Department to administer individual exchange visitor programs. Sponsors select and place exchange visitors in the programs they provide.
    A host organization is an institution that provides a job training placement within one department or their office as a whole. A host organization can be a museum, gallery, performance center, magazine, dance studio, opera house, or an Industrial Design, design, fashion, or web-design firm. Non arts- related hosts are considered on an individual basis.

    "Does USArts sponsor applicants seeking placement in a non-arts related organization?"

    Although the primary aim of USArts is to provide practical job training in an arts-related career, USArts is expanding its' services to offer professional experience in the fields of media and communication and management and commerce.  For further inquiries regarding a non-arts related placement, click Contact Us.



    What type of health insurance does IA&A provide?

    To obtain legal status in the United States, you are required to have health/accident insurance coverage. We provide two types of coverage plans. Both plans conform to the Department of State requirements. Coverage ranges from $44-$74 per month. Our plans does NOT include dental or vision coverage. Please contact USArts staff for further information regarding our health plans.



    If I already have an internship or placement arranged, can I apply to USArts for visa sponsorship?

    Yes, we consider self-placements. Follow the Get Started procedure. Please include the offer of training on company letterhead signed with your supporting documents

    Are Training placements paid or unpaid?

    We offer volunteer training placements and internships. In some cases a small monthly stipend is offered by the host organizations (stipends normally range between $500-$1,000 per month; some hosts provide fellowships for which you need to apply. Please inquire directly with the host organization).



    Can I extend my training or stay longer?

    Yes. The goal of an exchange program under the J1 Visa category is for a participant to return home upon completion of job training to apply what was learned in his or her home country. USArts offers the maximum training period available, which is 18 months. If you wish to extend, you must show that you either have at least $500 available to you per month to cover your and your dependents' living expenses. A new DS2019 form will need to be issued and your health insurance will need to be extended.



    If I am unhappy with my training placement, can I change my host?

    We will review any request on a case-by-case basis. Please provide a written reason why you wish to change your host and allow five to ten days for our written reply. We require at least 60-days advance notice.



    What is included in my participation fee?

  • Administration fee
  • Costs associated with monitoring, mentoring, and evaluation during placement
  • Invitation to semi-annual, two-day orientation session in Washington, DC.



    Are there application deadlines?

    Training placements typically start during the first week of each month. We need to receive your completed application 4-8 weeks in advance. If you wish to apply to a specific host organization, please let us know right away which one(s).



    Do I need a Social Security card?

    You are required to apply for a Social Security card once you arrive in the U.S. to help you in all administrative and legal matters. Be aware there can be long delays receiving your Social Security card. We advise you to apply as soon as possible after you arrive. Please contact the U.S. Social Security Office at their website



    Am I subject to U.S. income taxes?

    If you are paid by your host organization, any wages you earn in the U.S. will be subject to "income tax" withholding. Make sure you give your employer your Social Security number as soon as you receive it so any required taxes can be deducted from your paycheck. A J1 Visa holder may be exempt from certain taxes, including Social Security Tax, Medicare, and Federal Unemployment Tax.

    If you lose your SS card, you can contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213.



    What is my legal status?

    International Arts & Artists remains your legal sponsor during the entire period of your stay in the U.S. This means that IA&A is responsible for providing you with relevant information prior to your arrival in the U.S. and is responsible for you while you are completing your training period at your host organization. It is International Arts & Artists' duty to ensure the value and the consistency of your training program. You should never hesitate to contact International Arts & Artists for assistance. In case of emergency, please contact Anna Smith immediately. Her emergency phone number is included in your Pre-Departure Manual, which you should bring with you. You can also obtain her telephone number by calling her office number directly at (202) 338-0680, extension 209.



    For further information please contact the Exchange Visitor Program, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, U.S. Department of State or contact USArts International Training Program Monday through Friday 9:30am-6pm.



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    International Arts & Artists
    9 Hillyer Court NW, 2nd floor,
    Washington, DC, 20008, USA
    Webmaster: Jennifer Simon