Regulations & Requirements

While not a requirement, as a host employer, part of your role is to assist international participants in their compliance with the U.S. Department of State’s Summer Work Travel program regulations. You’ll make their experience more successful as well as ensure that you’re able to host students through the program in future years. In accordance with our practices and the regulations of the program, please:

• Do not allow participants to begin work at your business until InterExchange, the J-1 Visa sponsor, has fully vetted and approved your business and the student positions. This vetting process also applies to all participants who may be taking on a second job at your business.
• Notify InterExchange immediately of any concerns regarding participants’ health, safety, or welfare, including housing issues or a participant’s quitting.
• Notify InterExchange immediately when participants arrive at work sites to begin their programs.
• Notify InterExchange immediately when participants do not arrive at work sites to begin their programs.
• Notify InterExchange immediately if there are any changes or deviations in job placements during participants’ programs.
• Don’t overhire.
• Ensure to familiarize participants with the local community.
• Ensure that participants have opportunities to meet Americans, both in the work environment and during their free time.
• Ensure that participants have opportunities to engage in cultural activities.
• Don’t allow participants to work past the dates on their DS-2019 Forms.
• Be prepared for visits, both scheduled and unscheduled, from U.S. Department of State officials or InterExchange during the season.
• Treat all international participants with respect and act as a welcoming ambassador for the U.S.