Frequently Asked Questions
These frequently asked questions are a resource for Work & Travel USA program participants.
General Program Information
What is the Work & Travel USA program?
InterExchange Work & Travel USA allows university students the opportunity to live and work in the United States during their summer vacation from college or university to experience and to be exposed to the people and way of life in the United States through the U.S. Department of State’s Summer Work Travel (SWT) program. InterExchange is designated by the U.S. Department of State to provide J-1 Visa sponsorship for Summer Work Travel participants. As part of the U.S. Department of State’s BridgeUSA initiative, this program promotes diplomacy and mutual understanding by connecting international students with American communities and workplaces.
What are the eligibility requirements for the Work & Travel USA program?
To participate in InterExchange Work & Travel USA, you must be a full-time college or university student between the ages of 18 and 28, proficient in English (both written and spoken), able to work for at least three months, and able to demonstrate that you are enthusiastic, motivated, and mature.
Can InterExchange Work & Travel USA help me find a job placement?
Yes. You can reach out to our partner agency in your home country for more information.
How long can I stay in the U.S. on the Work & Travel USA program?
The maximum duration of the Work & Travel USA program is four months. You must return to your home country prior to the start date of your university or college.
Do I need insurance during my Work & Travel USA program?
Yes. Accident and sickness insurance is included in the program fee and is required for all participants. This insurance meets all U.S. Department of State requirements and will cover you through the 30-day grace period at the end of your program.
J-1 Visa & Documents
What is a J-1 Visa?
The J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa (J) non-immigrant visa category is for individuals approved to participate in work- and study-based exchange visitor programs. The visa is administered by the U.S. Department of State, which is the same department that oversees the U.S. Embassies and Consulates around the world.
What is a DS-2019 Form?
In order to apply for a J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa, you must first be approved for sponsorship and issued a DS-2019 Form, which is a U.S. Government document certifying your eligibility for the Summer Work Travel visa. The DS-2019 Form is issued by designated sponsor organizations like InterExchange.
Can InterExchange issue my J-1 Visa?
No. Upon approving your application, InterExchange will issue you a DS-2019 Form, or Certificate of Eligibility. You will need a DS-2019 Form when you go to the U.S. Embassy/Consulate in your country to apply for the J-1 Visa. We sponsor the visa, but we cannot issue it.
Final visa decisions on approval/denial of your J-1 Visa are made by consular officials. If approved, the U.S. Embassy/Consulate will place the J-1 Visa sticker in your passport. Your visa, together with your DS-2019 Form, will allow you to enter the U.S. to begin your Summer Work Travel program.
What does InterExchange do as my J-1 Visa sponsor?
InterExchange will sponsor your visa and provide program support during your time in the USA. Specifically, this means providing you with:
- The documents you’ll need to apply for your visa;
- Accident and sickness insurance for the duration of your program;
- Information on opportunities to experience U.S. culture during your program;
- Program monitoring and 24-hour emergency support to ensure your safety while in the United States.
What is SEVIS?
SEVIS is the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System managed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. All Summer Work Travel participants must be registered in the SEVIS database within 10 days of arrival in the United States. You will receive a unique SEVIS ID number, and you will also be contacted regularly throughout the program to confirm that your details in SEVIS are still accurate. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security requires registration. If you do not register in SEVIS, you may be subject to program termination.
What is the SEVIS fee?
You must pay the $35 SEVIS fee prior to your visa interview appointment at the U.S. Embassy. This fee is included in your InterExchange program fee, and InterExchange submits the payment to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on your behalf. Once your DS-2019 Form is processed, InterExchange will send directions on how to access and print your SEVIS fee payment receipt to present at your visa appointment.
If I change my address, do I need to register my new address in SEVIS?
Yes. Every time you change your address, you should register your new work address and/or your new physical housing address online or over the phone. No P.O. Box addresses should be entered.
What is a DS-160?
Once you receive your DS-2019 Form and SEVIS ID number, you’ll need to complete a DS-160 visa application. This form must be submitted electronically to the U.S. Department of State before you are able to schedule a visa interview. U.S. Embassies and Consulates use the information entered on the DS-160, as well as an in-person interview, to determine your eligibility for a visa.
What is the MRV fee?
The MRV fee is the J-1 Visa application fee. This is paid directly to the U.S. Embassy/Consulate and must be paid at the time you schedule your visa appointment. The fee is currently $185 USD.
How do I make an appointment to get a visa?
After completing your DS-160, follow your Embassy or Consulate’s online instructions for making a nonimmigrant visa appointment. Be sure to check the website at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate where you will be applying, as requirements may vary from country to country. Reach out to your cooperator in your home country to get assistance regarding visa appointments.
How should I prepare for my visa appointment?
Here’s a guide to ensure you are well-prepared for your J-1 Visa appointment. Be sure to check the specific requirements and updates on the U.S. Embassy/Consulate website in your location.
How to Apply
- Complete the DS-160 form
- Apply for your J-1 Visa: Set up an account, submit necessary information, and pay the application fee.
- Print your SEVIS Fee Receipt: Your SEVIS Fee has been paid by InterExchange. To print your SEVIS fee receipt, click ‘Check I-901 Status’ and enter your SEVIS ID, last name, and date of birth.
- Book an appointment at the nearest U.S.embassy.
Gather documents
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months after the end date of your program
- Completed DS-160 form
- SEVIS Fee Payment Receipt
- DS-2019 Form
- Visa Appointment Confirmation
- Official University Transcript
- Funds sufficient to cover all expenses while in the United States.
- Passport size photos (as per U.S. visa requirements)
- Job offer letter
- Any other documents required by your Embassy/ Consulate.
During the Appointment
- Arrive at the Embassy/Consulate on time.
- Dress professionally.
- Answer questions confidently and honestly about your program.
After the Interview
- If approved, follow instructions for passport and visa collection. Please update your InterExchange account with all the information.
- If additional documents are requested, submit them promptly.
- If denied, ask for reasons and check if you can reapply.
What is an I-94 record?
The I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) is used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to track your arrival to and departure from the U.S. You will receive an electronic I-94 record upon entering the U.S. by air or sea. We recommend you access and print your electronic arrival record by visiting the CBP site.
Please note the date indicated on your I-94. This is the date by which you must leave the U.S. If it is marked “D/S”, that means you may remain in the U.S. for the duration of your status (the end date of your program as listed on your DS-2019 Form, plus your 30-day grace period).
The I-94 website says there is no record found for me. What should I do?
If the I-94 website says your record is not found, try these tips:
- Do not use dashes or titles
- Enter your first and last name exactly as they appear on your passport
- Enter the passport number that appears on the upper right hand side of your passport
- Enter your country of citizenship (country that issued the passport, not where you currently live)
- If you entered your first and middle name and it is not found, try one name or the other. Also try entering your first and middle name in the first name box.
If you have further questions, you may visit the CBP Information Center or contact 1-877-227-5511 (within the United States) or 00+1+202-325-8000 (Outside of the United States) for assistance.
Application Process & Participant Qualifications
How do I apply to Work & Travel USA?
Please contact our partner agency in your home country for more information about next steps.
Am I eligible to participate in the Work & Travel USA program?
To participate in InterExchange Work & Travel USA, you must be a full-time college or university student between the ages of 18 and 28, proficient in English (both written and spoken), able to work for at least three months, enthusiastic, motivated, and mature.
How much does the Work & Travel USA program cost?
Program fees vary from country to country. The InterExchange partner agency in your home country will be able to provide you with details about the costs. You will also need to pay the cost of your transportation to and from the U.S., accident and sickness insurance (InterExchange will provide you with access to discounted insurance), housing, and personal expenses.
What kind of jobs are available?
Our participants fill various entry-level, seasonal positions, including retail, waitstaff, counter staff, maintenance staff, housekeeping, and amusement park positions.
How much will I earn on the Work & Travel USA program?
Participants in our program are required to be compensated at the higher of:
- The applicable Federal, State, or Local Minimum Wage (including overtime); or
- Pay and benefits commensurate with those offered to their similarly situated U.S. counterparts.
Information for Current Participants
Can I arrive before my program begins?
Yes, you may arrive up to 30 days before your program start date. Participants who arrive before the start date of their DS-2019 form cannot work or apply for a Social Security Card until after their start date. InterExchange recommends that you arrive in the United States as close as possible to the Program Begin Date listed on your DS-2019 form. Work & Travel USA program begin and end dates cannot extend into the college and/or university academic calendars. The dates in Box 3 on your DS-2019 form are country-specific and set by the U.S. Department of State. These dates correspond with windows of opportunity for program participation during the official summer university breaks.
You should purchase additional accident and sickness insurance if you plan on arriving before or staying after the dates on your DS-2019 Form. You are also still responsible for registering in SEVIS within 10 days of your arrival to the U.S. regardless of program begin date.
I just arrived in the U.S. Is there anything I need to do?
Yes! You MUST register in SEVIS within ten days of the start date as listed on your DS-2019 Form.
How to Register in SEVIS:
- Locate your program start date in Box 3 of your DS-2019 Form: If it is before your program begin date on your DS-2019, you will not be able to register online in SEVIS until this date.
- Sign into your Online Application: Enter your U.S. housing address and confirm employment location: You must include a U.S. phone number and specify your apartment or hotel room number if you live at your job site.
How do I get a Social Security Number?
To apply for a first-time Social Security card, you will need to apply in-person at a local Social Security office. You may be eligible to begin the application online and then bring any required documents to your local office to complete the application.
You can find detailed instructions on how to apply for a Social Security Number. Please refer to the Social Security Administration website for more information.
I am moving to a new address. Is there anything I need to do?
You must notify InterExchange within ten days of any change of address so that your SEVIS record can be updated.
What do I do if I am sick?
If you have a minor or non-urgent medical need, you can use Teladoc Virtual Telemedicine to see a doctor or get a prescription. Search for a doctor on the insurance company’s website and make an appointment. Be sure to present your insurance ID card at the doctor’s office. Please visit our insurance information page for more details on using your insurance.
Can I get more than one job?
You can look for a second job once you are in the U.S., but you may not begin working at a second job until it has been approved by InterExchange. If you need assistance looking for a second job, we can provide you with information.
What am I allowed to do during my time off?
You are allowed to do what you like with your free time, provided you obey U.S. laws and Work & Travel USA program rules. There may also be additional rules for your employee housing that you must follow. You are strongly encouraged to learn about American culture by participating in cultural activities offered by your host community and surrounding area.
What do I do if I lose my passport , DS-2019 Form, Social Security card or I-94 form?
If you lose your passport or visa, contact your country’s embassy or consulate in the USA as soon as possible so that they can assist you in obtaining new documents.
If you lose your DS-2019 Form, please contact InterExchange during regular office hours (9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Eastern Time), and we will provide you with a replacement form.
If you lose your Social Security card, you do not need to replace it as long as you know your Social Security number or have a photocopy of the card. If you would like a replacement card, contact the Social Security Administration.
What do I need to do if I want to travel outside the U.S. during my Work & Travel USA program?
You can travel outside the U.S. under the following conditions:
- Your visa says “M,” meaning you are authorized for multiple entries rather than “S,” single entry. Multiple entry means that you are allowed to re-enter the country. Single entry means that you have already used up your only entry when you arrived at the beginning of your program. Full details can be found here.
- Your visa is still valid. If your visa expires when you are outside the country, then you will not be allowed to re-enter the country.
- You have already obtained the required visa, where applicable, of the destination country where you are traveling.
- If you are returning to the United States, you must reenter the country before your SEVIS end date. CBP will interview all students for admission & eligibility.
- If you travel in the middle of your program, you should have a job to return to. If you are terminated or quit your job before traveling internationally, you may be denied re-entry to the United States.
Carry All Your Documents:
When traveling outside the United States during your program, make sure you have all of your documents with you: DS-2019, Visa, Passport, I-94, SSN. Please be sure to have copies of your documents, in addition to the originals.
Be sure to check the U.S. Department of State’s website for special travel alerts and advisories. If you have any further questions, please contact InterExchange at 1.800.621.1202.
Do I need a travel validation for trips within the U.S.?
You do not need to have your DS-2019 Form signed for travel within the United States, but we do recommend that you keep your visa documents with you and secured while you are traveling. Note that beginning May 7, 2025, you will need to present a valid passport to board domestic flights in the United States.
What do I do if I have problems with insurance, housing, my host employer, etc. during my program?
Contact InterExchange! We are here to help and need to be notified if you experience any issues or have any concerns during your program.
What do I do if I’m arrested, detained by immigration officials, seriously injured, or have any other emergency?
Please contact the InterExchange Work & Travel USA department immediately. The toll-free number during business hours is 1-800-621-1202. During non-business hours or the weekends, you can contact our emergency line at 1-917-873-5877.
All other non-emergency inquiries should be made during normal business hours to our toll-free number listed above.
My program has ended. How long can I remain in the U.S.?
You are permitted to stay a maximum of 30 days past your DS-2019 Form’s end date to travel within the U.S. and prepare for your departure. This is referred to as the “grace period.”
How do I book my flight home? How do I change my flight?
In general, you should contact your airline directly for flight changes and availability. In some cases you might have special instructions on how to book or change your ticket that were provided by our cooperator in your home country. Please refer to the program materials that you received before departure.
What if I want to stay and work longer?
You are only allowed to work during the dates that are listed on part 3 of your DS-2019 form. Under no circumstances can the dates or your J-1 Visa be extended. You are allowed to stay in the U.S. and travel for 30 days after the dates listed on part 3 of your DS-2019, but you are not allowed to work during this time. If you have any questions regarding the dates you can work, or the dates you can stay in the U.S., please call InterExchange at 1.800.621.1202.
Housing
What if I don’t like my housing?
If you’re unhappy with your housing or have concerns about its condition, we recommend speaking to your landlord as soon as possible. Please note that housing conditions will vary, and you should expect to share modest accommodations. In some cases, housing may also be tied to employment, so this should be considered when evaluating other housing options. You are not required to accept housing provided by your host and are allowed to move out if desired. However, keep in mind that if you signed a lease agreement, your landlord may have terms in place for moving out.
How do I find housing in the U.S?
When looking for housing, you should research your area and also speak to your host employer. Your host employer can guide you in finding safe and affordable housing, as they are familiar with your work area. You can also check out our housing guide for tips on how to secure housing in the U.S. In looking for housing, we always recommend that you have a Lease Agreement. For more information on leases, please read our Understanding Lease Agreements page.
What is the estimated cost of renting an apartment?
Housing costs vary greatly throughout the U.S, especially in seasonal summer and winter areas. Ask your employer what the average cost of housing might be in the area, and check out local online listings to get a sense of the average costs.
How long does it take to secure housing?
Securing housing depends largely on the location. Since you will be in a seasonal area, it may be more challenging and costly to find housing, especially during peak tourist season. The best suggestion is to get started early.
What safety precautions should I take when searching for housing?
Use the same caution you would when searching for housing in your home country. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the neighborhood at night and check the nearby transportation options. You should also carefully investigate any housing options you find online. If you find housing that seems too cheap for your area, or pictures that seem unrealistic, that may be a scam.
Housing scams are common. Never transfer money to a person you have never met for housing you haven’t seen in person.
What is a security deposit?
Most landlords will require you to pay a security deposit upon moving in. This insures the landlord against any housing damage that may occur during your residency. The security deposit is usually equal to one month of rent. You are entitled to a refund of this amount at the end of your lease if you leave your housing in the same condition as when you moved in. Please review the lease agreement for deposit refund policies. Some landlords may withhold the deposit if you move out without notice or before the lease end date.
Are apartments furnished?
Furnishing depends on the type of housing and area you are in. Many housing options that are seasonal do provide basic furnishing. We suggest speaking to the landlord and asking for pictures of the housing to see how much is furnished.
Is internet/cable provided?
This would depend on the type of housing. If you rent an apartment, these amenities may already be in place, but you should find out if this will be an additional monthly cost for you.
Will my employer help me find housing?
It varies by employer and the program you’re enrolled in. Some employers will provide housing, while others can offer guidance and recommendations about the local area. Be sure to ask your employer about housing options, typical costs, and any local resources.
Filing Taxes
Do I need to file a tax return?
Yes. If you received payment from your host employer, you will need to file a tax return for each calendar year during which you earned income in the U.S. If you have any specific tax questions, you should contact a tax preparer or call the IRS information line: 1.800.829.1040. InterExchange staff are not licensed tax professionals and are not able to advise you on specific tax-related matters.
When is the tax season?
Each U.S. tax season begins on January 1st and lasts until taxes are due, typically on April 15th. This is the time period during which everyone must file tax returns on the income earned during the previous calendar year. For example, 2024 tax returns will be due to the IRS on April 15, 2025.
What is my tax status?
For tax purposes, J-1 Visa holders are considered non-resident aliens. Please review the IRS’ non-resident alien filing requirements.
Can I use TurboTax or other online tax preparation software to file my taxes?
Unfortunately, no. Unless you e-file with a specific nonresident tax preparer, you must mail paper copies of your tax documents to the IRS. TurboTax does not support non-resident tax forms, and filing as a U.S. resident with online tax software may cause the IRS to suspect you of tax fraud.
What is a ghost preparer?
A “ghost preparer” is an individual or company who prepares and submits your taxes but refuses to sign as the preparer. Be on the lookout for fraud such as this by reviewing information on ghost preparers and other scams on the IRS website.
What is the I-9 and how do I fill it out?
You must complete the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form. This form notifies the U.S. government that you are allowed to work in the United States. You need to show your passport, J-1 Visa, printed I-94 admission record, and DS-2019 Form to your employer when you fill out this form. You are only required to fill out Section 1. Your employer will complete Section 2. Remember to fill out Section 1 using your U.S. work address.
To see an example of how to fill out the I-9 and more information please review these Participant Resources for more information.
Insurance
Please review our insurance resources for more detailed insurance information
What is a Co-Pay?
Although your insurance plan will pay most of your medical bill, they do require you, as the patient, to pay a small portion. This portion is called a co-pay. Under your insurance plan you will have a co-pay for every doctor’s office visit, a hospital stay, or other form of care. For every visit, you will pay the co-pay and the insurance will pay the remaining qualified expenses. If you visit an out-of-network doctor, you can expect a larger co-pay for each doctor’s office visit.
What is a Deductible?
This is the amount you must pay for medical expenses before the insurance company is obligated to pay – outside of the USA, this is also known as excess. Under your insurance policy you have a deductible for visiting the emergency room (unless you are kept in the hospital overnight, at which point the fee is waived). This means if the emergency room bill is less than your deductible, you will have to pay the entire bill; if it is more than your deductible, then you will only pay the deductible and the insurance company will pay the remaining amount of qualified expenses.
When I telephone the doctor to make an appointment and they request the name of my insurance, what do I tell them?
The plan utilizes the UnitedHealthcare Network, so when calling or talking with providers, please mention this name or show the provider a copy of your insurance ID card with the UnitedHealthcare logo on it for network recognition. Alternatively, or if any issues arise, please call the insurance company immediately for assistance. Please refer to your insurance ID card to confirm the name of your insurance company.
Note: Participants from CKM, SAYIT, and IEC must refer to their respective insurance plans for coverage details.
Can I go to any doctor?
Yes, you are free to visit any provider you wish, but it is not advisable to see doctors outside of the provider network. The benefit of staying within the preferred provider network is that bills and invoices may be settled directly without any payment (apart from your deductibles) on your part.
What does my insurance NOT cover?
Common exclusions on your insurance plan include pre-existing conditions, birth control pills, long-term treatment, and regular exams/check-ups. However, please log into your Student Zone for a copy of your insurance brochure that will contain a full listing of the plan exclusions.
What should I do if I feel like I want to harm myself?
While in the USA, your insurance plan includes access to DialCare, supporting you in your time of need. DialCare is a virtual and telephonic counseling service focused on providing safe, secure, and private means of seeking mental health assistance from licensed counselors. Some additional organizations that can assist are:
- Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988
- The Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQA): 1-866-488-7386
- Treatment Referral Hotline (Substance Abuse): 1-800-662-4357
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673 or http://online.rainn.org
- Crisis Text Line: Text Free in the US 741741
Should I go to a hospital emergency room?
We generally recommend that you visit a doctor’s office or urgent care clinic for treatment. You will likely have a shorter wait time, and urgent care clinics tend to be much less expensive than hospital emergency rooms. Generally, you should ONLY visit a hospital emergency room if you are experiencing a serious injury or a life-threatening illness.
What if I lose my insurance confirmation card?
Please visit your Student Zone to download your insurance ID card from the MyDocuments section.
Note: Participants from CKM, SAYIT, and IEC must refer to their respective insurance plans for coverage details.
What do I need to take with me when I go to the doctor’s office?
You should take with you:
- Insurance confirmation card with your Individual Policy Number
- Passport (to use as Identification)
- DS-2019 Form (just in case they need to see it)
How/where do I get my individual insurance policy number?
Your insurance ID card contains both your Group ID (this is the same for all participants under the plan) and your certificate ID, which is unique to you and is your individual insurance policy number.
What is a claim form?
An insurance claim form is a form/application you must complete after going to the doctor in order for the insurance company to pay your medical bill. Download a claim form from your insurance plan’s Claims Center.
Who has to file a claim form?
All Work & Travel USA participants who receive medical treatment must file a claim form for each injury or illness.
When should I file the claim form?
You should file a claim form as soon as possible after going to the doctor’s office, urgent care center, or emergency room, and no later than 90 days after you received treatment. After 90 days, you will not be reimbursed for your medical expenses.
What does the insurance company need from me in order to process the refund?
To process a refund, you’ll need to submit signed and dated claim form and either the physician’s bill or a fully itemized statement of charges (a complete list of everything the doctor’s office has charged you) with the diagnosis written on the doctor’s letterhead.
If my medical provider sent the bill directly to the insurance claims department, do I still have to fill out a claim form?
Yes, but the bill and claim form do not have to be mailed in together. As long as the medical provider sent in the bill you only have to send in your claim form. However, sending both together may help to expedite payment of your bill.
How do I find out the status of a claim?
Through your MyIMG account, you can submit your claims, track the status, access your Explanation of Benefits, and more! We strongly recommend that you register for your MyIMG account as soon as your coverage starts. Alternatively, you may call/email your insurance company to check on your claim.
I received an unpaid bill from the doctor’s office I visited. What should I do?
First, call the doctor’s office to ask if they have submitted the bill to your insurance company. If they did not receive your correct insurance information, you may give them your insurance company’s details so that your claim can be processed. If the bill was submitted to the insurance company but has not yet been processed, please contact the insurance company directly in order to check on the status of your claim.
I am unhappy with the results of my insurance claim. What steps can I take?
If a claim has been processed and you are not happy with the results, you can request that the insurance company review the claim again. To do this, you can email an appeal to the insurance company to request another review.
What if I’m injured on the job?
All job-related injuries are covered by Workers’ Compensation insurance. Your employer should refer to their Workers’ Compensation policy.
Work & Travel Year Program
How can I participate in the 12-Month Work & Travel USA program for citizens of Australia and New Zealand?
If you are a citizen of Australia or New Zealand, you can work for up to 12 months in the United States.
To be eligible for the 12-month program, you must:
- Be between the ages of 18 and 28.
- Be enrolled full-time and pursuing studies at accredited post-secondary, classroom-based, academic institutions physically located * outside of the United States and have successfully completed at least the first year of postsecondary academic study, or graduated within the last 12 months.
- Show proof of sufficient funds to get settled in the U.S. – at least $2,000 USD in your bank account.
For more information regarding the application and job offer process, visit our Australia or New Zealand website.
Why do I need a Social Security number?
Social Security numbers are generally assigned to people who are authorized to work in the United States. They are used to report your wages to the government and to identify you when filing your tax return. Also, when opening up a new bank account, most banks require either a Social Security number or proof of application for a Social Security number.
How long will it take to receive my Social Security card?
Your Social Security card should arrive in the mail within six weeks of your application date. It is important that your mailing address on Form SS-5 is accurate to ensure that your card gets delivered to you. If you change your mailing address after you submit your application to the Social Security office, it is your responsibility to inform the Social Security Administration of this change by calling or visiting any Social Security office. If you do not currently have a valid mailing address, you may list your employer’s address as your mailing address.
If I am a returning J-1 participant and have already been issued a Social Security number, do I need to reapply?
No, you do not need to apply for a new number. If you do not remember your number or have lost your card, you will need to apply for a replacement by visiting your local Social Security office: www.ssa.gov/locator.
What if the Social Security Administration won’t accept my documents?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) will not accept a student’s application and documents if you have not yet registered in SEVIS. We recommend going to the Social Security office at least five business days after activating your SEVIS record and at least 10 days after your arrival. If SSA does not accept your application, take detailed notes of what the Social Security officer says and report this information to InterExchange by calling 1-800-621-1202.
What if my Social Security card never arrives?
If you put your employer’s address on the Social Security application Form SS-5, first check with them to ensure that they have not already received your card. If they have not, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. An update on your application status will usually be given over the phone. In the event that there is an issue with the application, take detailed notes and call InterExchange to help resolve the issue. You can also reapply in person at your local Social Security office, which can be found at: www.ssa.gov/locator.
What if I have difficulty using the Online Social Security Number Application?
The Online Social Security Number Application will speed up the application process when you arrive in-person to show the Social Security officer your documents and finish the application. If you are unable to submit your Online Social Security Application, you can bring a completed Form SS-5 (paper application form) with you to your local Social Security office.
What if I return home without receiving a Social Security number?
As long as you have earned income in the U.S. you are still required to file a tax return for the year(s) during which you worked. If you have not been able to receive an Social Security Number but do need to file a tax return, you can apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) alongside your tax return by following the steps below. Note: If you have a Social Security Number you will not need to apply for an ITIN.
When mailing your ITIN application together with your Federal tax return, make sure to follow the IRS instructions and include the following:
If including a photocopy of their passport, it must be certified by one of the following: