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FAQ’S FOR INTERNS & TRAINEES2021-01-19T21:59:02+00:00
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO KNOW?

Traveling to the U.S. to expand your career is a big, bold move. Learn more about what you can expect on your journey.

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Basic Information
Employment & Compensation
Housing, Lifestyle, and Travel
Forms & Legal Information

Basic Information

What is the J-1 Cultural Exchange Visa Program?2019-11-10T19:32:58+00:00

The J-1 Cultural Exchange Visa Program is a non-immigrant cultural exchange visa, issued by the U.S. Department of State, which allows foreign nationals to enter the U.S. to participate in an internship or training program with an American company for up to 12 months for hospitality programs.

International participants gain practical experience to help reinforce their academic studies and enhance their career through a structured training program and improve their knowledge of American business culture. 

Do you want to know if you qualify to be an intern or trainee? CLICK HERE to see what is required.

Who is the sponsor organization?2019-11-10T19:34:51+00:00

HPUSA partners with State Department-designated sponsors who are authorized to issue the Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status (Form DS-2019).

Who is the host employer?2019-11-10T19:35:29+00:00

The host employer will extend an offer for a cultural exchange paid practical training program. This will be the site of training and the J-1 cultural exchange participant will be paid by the host employer. HPUSA does not make any employment decisions as to how the participant will work, what their responsibilities will be, or whether the employment will be terminated, and has no authority to exercise any discretion.

What are the program fees, and what do they include?2019-11-10T19:36:32+00:00

We know that you need information on the details of the program fees and what is included and not included in those fees. Please CLICK HERE for a breakdown of what is and is not included, our refund policy and more.

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Employment & Compensation

Will I be Paid?2019-12-12T16:39:07+00:00

Yes, the training is PAID and you will be treated just like an American employee. You can expect to earn the following amounts:

Front Office: Between US $10.00 to US $17.00 per hour
Food and Beverage: Average US $12.00 per hour (includes gratuity) – you will receive an hourly rate plus unlimited tips
Culinary: Between US $10.00 to US $17.00 per hour

Supervisors can expect to earn more.

What is the difference between an Intern and a Trainee?2019-11-10T19:38:03+00:00

J-1 Interns are either currently enrolled in or have graduated from their hospitality degree programs within the past year.

J-1 Trainees have graduated from university more than a year ago and have at least one year of hospitality experience, OR have 5 years of hospitality experience, before enrolling in the J-1 program. Trainees should have a more advanced training plan with more advanced learning objectives including an advanced final training phase.

What Positions are Available?2019-11-10T19:39:12+00:00

Food and Beverage Division

This position offers you the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field of hospitality food service. In Food and Beverage, you will be exposed to the daily operations of the foodservice industry, while performing practical training assignments. Practical training may include the following: Food Server, Host/Hostess, Food Service/Beverage Service, Banquet/Catering Set-up and Service, and Food Retail Sales.

Front Office Department

This position offers you the opportunity to understand the daily operational procedures of a hotel or resort from the front office. Practical training assignments may include Front Desk, Reservations, Concierge, At Your Service, PBX and Night Audit.

Housekeeping Supervisor

This position offers you the opportunity to learn and practice the daily essential functions of a supervisor in the housekeeping department. Practical training assignments may include quality control, inspections, scheduling of staff, organizational skills, inventory, laundry supervision and business relationship between housekeeping and the other departments of the hotel/resort.

Culinary/Kitchen Management

This position offers you the opportunity to gain valuable, “hands-on” experience while being exposed to the daily culinary operations of a hotel. Practical training assignments may include Food Preparation, Sauces, Meats, Line Cooking, Pastry, Breads, Dessert, Hot and Cold Service, Inventory and Kitchen Sanitation.

We have MANY PAID J-1 internship/traineeship positions all over the USA!
Click Here for a sample of our current openings.

Is the Training Full Time?2019-11-10T19:39:38+00:00

Yes, the host company is required to provide 32 hours or greater per week. You can also expect to receive time and a half for any overtime worked.

What Hotel Brands can I train at?2019-11-10T19:40:07+00:00

We have several luxury brand hotels/ resorts in the USA, interested in providing you a PAID hands-on work and training platform, as a foundation for your career in hospitality. Hotels such as Hyatt Regency, Hilton, Sheraton, Marriott, Westin, The Four Seasons, Intercontinental, W Hotel, Renaissance, PLUS many more!

Can I work a second job?2019-11-10T19:40:32+00:00

No, you cannot work a second job and cannot transfer to another location unless under extreme situations. All transfers must be approved by the host employer and the sponsor organization in advance.

Housing, Lifestyle, and Travel

Does the hotel provide Accommodation?2019-11-10T19:41:25+00:00

You are responsible for your own accommodation for the duration of the training program. Most hotels will provide at least two weeks accommodation at the hotel upon arrival and then you MUST find your own suitable accommodation. Utilize the time before you arrive to research accommodation options online. Your new host company can also assist you in finding suitable accommodation near the hotel.

Can I choose the location of my Program?2019-11-10T19:42:01+00:00

Although we encourage you to provide us with any location preferences you may have, please remember that you may be limiting your placement options if you hold out for a certain location. Please also keep in mind that the high cost of living in popular tourist locations is prohibitive to your wages. You can always visit the tourist spots on weekends, vacation time or during your 30 day grace period. We do offer options for a Specific Location request at an additional fee. Please ensure to request your Specific Location on the online HPUSA application.

Can I travel when in the USA?2019-11-10T19:42:49+00:00

As a J-1 exchange visitor, you are permitted to remain in the country up to 30 days past the end date of your Form DS-2019. This time is for tourism and getting your affairs in order. You do not have work authorization during this time.

Can my spouse or child come with me?2019-11-10T19:43:21+00:00

The J-2 visa is intended for non-immigrant spouses or children of a J-1 exchange visitor who accompany or later join their spouse or parent in the United States.

For additional questions and J-2 Visa information CLICK HERE

Can I visit my home country during the Program?2019-11-10T19:44:11+00:00

We highly recommend you stay in the United States for the duration of your training program. If you do need to travel outside the US during your program, you MUST be granted prior written approval from your host employer and contact your sponsor organization. Failure to do so may jeopardize your J-1 status and training program.

Do I have to pay for my Flight to the USA?2019-11-10T19:47:18+00:00

Yes, you are responsible for organizing and paying for your travel to the USA.

Forms & Legal Information

Will I pay taxes?2019-11-10T19:49:15+00:00

Like everyone else who works in the U.S., you too have to pay your taxes BUT you don’t have to pay all of them.

When you arrive at your training your host company will ask you to complete two important tax documents, the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Form and the W-4 Employees Withholding Allowance Certificate.

Be sure to indicate your permanent address in your home country. This will ensure that your host company has the correct address to send your W-2 statement of earnings at the end of the year.

When you receive your W2 you may file your taxes by going to this link: Taxback.com

Taxes You Should Not Pay

Social Security Tax
Medicare
Federal Unemployment

Taxes You Should Pay

Federal Income Tax
State Income Tax
City Income Tax

What documents do I need to provide?2019-11-10T19:49:45+00:00

In order to move forward and start marketing your application to our hotels we need you to upload the following:

  • HPUSA video introduction (must be a YouTube link) – Instructions provided below on the online portal (ensure your video is not set to private).
  • Professional smiling photo (headshot only) in JPEG format as an attachment (no large files). All Culinary applicants must provide a photo, wearing chef uniform.
  • Complete Address – typed in the downloadable word document and upload in WORD (.doc) format ONLY. Please Note: This address MUST be 100% accurate for us to courier your DS Kit! If the address is incorrect – the reissue of documents fee goes to you.
  • Copy of your passport (must be valid 3 months after your program end date) If your passport will expires during the period of your J1 program, you need to renew it immediately. In the meantime, you will submit a copy of your existing passport.
  • Degree OR Graduation Certificate (if Degree not available – MUST show the degree and major earned and date of graduation. OR the Graduation Certificate / Letter issued from your university on MUST be on school letterhead confirming the degree earned, course of study and EXACT graduation date.
  • Transcript of Records (Copy or clear screenshot of grades if transcripts not available) *Please send as one PDF document, no large files
    Work Certificate(s) – Certificates must be signed and on company letterhead with company contact details stating your name, position and dates you worked.
  • Trainees: – MUST have work certificates to prove 12 months paid hotel related work experience outside USA
  • (2) Reference Letters or Training Certificates – Must be on company letterhead, can be from school, previous employer or training/ seminars attended.
  • Copy of any previous DS-2019 AND US Visa (if you have previously worked or visited the USA).

All documents should be in English or officially translated in English along with the original document.

What is the DS-2019 form?2019-11-10T19:50:11+00:00

The DS-2019 Form is the document that allows you to apply for the J-1 Visa as an Intern or Trainee in the USA. The DS-2019 form is also called “Certificate of Eligibility”. It is issued to you by a US Department of State-designated sponsor organization.

How long does the Process take?2019-11-10T19:51:21+00:00

Interns and Trainees are expected to arrive in the USA within 6 to 8 weeks from the time of receiving Letter of Offer and Training Plan provided by the host employer.

Do I need Health Insurance?2019-11-10T19:52:01+00:00

Yes, your sponsor organization will provide basic health insurance for the duration of your program and will pay for the insurance from your program fees. You will receive information on your insurance upon receiving your DS-2019 form from your sponsor organization.

How do I apply for a Social Security Card?2019-11-10T19:54:09+00:00

If you do not already have a social security number, you will need to apply for one five days after your official program start date. We will provide you with information to apply.

Will I be guaranteed a J-1 Cultural Exchange Visa?2019-11-10T19:55:59+00:00

No, there is no guarantee that you will be granted a J-1 Visa at the US Embassy. We ensure that each participant has the necessary documents for their visa interview and assist in appealing any visa denial decisions. The Embassy wants to know you will return to your home country following the training in America and it is your responsibility to take all necessary documents with you to your visa interview.

Group of interns

A JOURNEY OF SELF-DISCOVERY AND PERSONAL GROWTH

A journey of self-discovery and personal growth filled with unforgettable memories is what foreign exchange all about. I am so truly thankful for this experience; it has changed me forever. Living in a different country has opened my eyes. I learned to accept, and to be respected. I learned to be responsible, and to be careful. I learned to be friendly, and to be polite. Most of all, I learned how to live and realized that adventure was the best way to learn. An Exchange is an experience, never to be forgotten.

Kristal Joy Unico

I REALLY ENJOYED CELEBRATING 4TH OF JULY IN NYC

“I really enjoyed celebrating 4th of July in NYC and watching the beautiful fireworks. I also had the opportunity to play in a baseball game. It was so much fun! I am learning so many new things and developing my skills in the hospitality industry thanks to the HPUSA Cultural Exchange Visitors program.”

Veronika S.

SUCH A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE!

“I was given the opportunity to visit “Hacienda Patron”, Patron Tequila’s Distillery in Jalisco, Mexico. I was able to learn more about tequila and meet some new friends. Such a wonderful experience!”

Keir James E

I AM VERY THANKFUL TO HPUSA FOR MAKING ONE OF MY DREAMS A REALITY.

I am very thankful to HPUSA for making one of my dreams a reality. I have matured so much and learned how to be independent. I have visited a lot of great artworks and structures that I can show to my family and friends in my home country. For me, my internship is my stepping stone to make myself become productive and be more ready of what will I become in the future. I have gained a lot of experience and learned so much that I will apply in my future career plans. I am just very thankful for everything. Thank you so much for all of the support! HPUSA is the best!

Vannelaine R.

THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING!

Thank you for everything! I appreciate all of your help throughout my HPUSA J1 Cultural Exchange Program! This was an awesome experience in the USA! I had a great host company and learned so much from training at this hotel. Thank you Hospitality Placements for this opportunity, I really appreciate it!

Dave M.

TRULY AN EXPERIENCE WORTH LIVING.

The HPUSA J1 Cultural Exchange program was a great way for me to expand the training I started in my home country. Experiencing American culture and advance training in the Hospitality Industry was truly an experience worth living. I would like to extend my warmest gratitude to HPUSA for making my dream a reality!

Stephen F.

THANK YOU HPUSA FOR THIS WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY!

“We took a train to Miami and it was my first time riding a train. It was fun and very convenient. We stopped at Wynwood and took pictures of many colorful murals. The street artists did a great job! Thank you HPUSA for this wonderful opportunity!”

Regene Ann R.

THANK YOU SO MUCH HPUSA FOR GIVING US THIS GREAT OPPORTUNITY!

“We came here to build our skills to our chosen field and it has helped us a lot! They help us to develop our skills, knowledge, character and to deal with the different people in the hospitality industry! We have experienced different cultures and got a chance to travel different states. We united as one big family and this is only some of the pictures of our memorable moments that we will treasure forever! Thank you so much HPUSA for giving us this great opportunity!”

Marriott Pennsylvania Interns

THIS HAS BEEN THE BEST EXPERIENCE!

“This has been the best experience! I enjoy being part of the Cultural Exchange Visitor Program because I have experienced training internationally, got to learn and appreciate the American culture, to be independent, and to improve and share my knowledge of the hospitality industry?. Thank you HPUSA for assisting with placement with the best host company! It feels amazing that my hard work has been recognized and being rewarded for the efforts that I put in. You are all awesome!”

Kristina A.

THANK YOU HPUSA FOR GIVING ME THE OPPORTUNITY..

“Thank you HPUSA for giving me the opportunity to experience a wonderful Cultural Exchange Visitor Program.”

Benjie P.

I WANT THANK THE HPUSA TEAM FOR HELPING ME FIND GREAT PLACEMENT

“I want thank the HPUSA team for helping me find great placement in the USA and supporting me throughout the Cultural Exchange program. I have enjoyed my tenure with the hotel and am so grateful for the experience. It was really a great opportunity in advancing my career and broadening my knowledge of the hospitality industry.”

Sharlene F

I’m ready to start my journey
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We’ll help you navigate the process of applying for your J1 Visa, interviewing with luxury hotels and resorts, and traveling to the U.S. to work. Just click the button below to start your application for our program and get ready to begin an exciting new experience.

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