Regulatory Changes to the J-1 Visa Work & Travel Program Will Affect Your Business
Deadline for Comment: June 27, 2011
Thank you for your support of the InterExchange Work & Travel USA Program. Your participation in this U.S. Department of State designated program has helped InterExchange fulfill our mission of promoting international understanding and cultural exchange between U.S. businesses and international university students from around the world.
We're seeking your support to ensure the program's continued success. The best way to show your support is to submit your feedback using the instructions on The Federal Register Notice website (which are also outlined on this page) or by contacting your local congressional representative.
In the interest of protecting the health, safety and welfare of the more than 100,000 international students who come to the U.S. each year on the J-1 Exchange Visitor program, the U.S. Department of State is proposing changes to the program. While addressing safety issues is certainly important, many of the other proposed changes would have a significant impact on employers, adding administrative burdens and hindering their ability to recruit students.
Despite isolated incidents that some students may encounter, such as financial or criminal risks, the Summer Work Travel program continues to be a valuable tool in advancing American public diplomacy. These programs allow impressionable young people from around the world to experience life in the USA where they can improve their English, gain job experience and build relationships between the people of their countries and ours. We would like to continue to offer these opportunities at the high level of quality you’ve enjoyed for many years.
How would the proposed regulatory changes affect U.S. employers?
Should all proposed changes go into effect on July 15, 2011, employers must:
- Provide sponsors like InterExchange with proof of corporate documents and licensing including EIN#s and Worker's Compensation.
- Make hiring decisions earlier in the season. Each employer and job must be fully vetted by the sponsor before students may apply for their J-1 Visas.
- Enter a formal contract with the student and sponsor organization that commits the employer to ensuring the job and terms are adhered to.
- Forgo any sponsor-initiated incentive to hire international students, including attending recruitment tours and events arranged by the sponsor or international recruiting agent.
- Report to sponsor every student's employment status and any changes to agreement.
- Await sponsor approval before allowing any J-1 student to begin work.
- Pay overtime in accordance with state-specific and federal employment laws, in addition to the prevailing wage.
Your business may be affected by these changes and we encourage you to get involved.
Your personalized letter can be sent with just a few mouse clicks and the process takes only a few minutes. Remember to include your name, address and zip code.
- Online: View the official notice and provide comments by going to the regulations.gov web site.
- E-mail: JExchanges@state.gov. You must include the RIN (1400-AC79) in the subject line of your message.
Important - All comments must be submitted on or before June 27, 2011.
For a complete understanding of why the U.S. Department of State is making these changes and to comment on proposed changes to the Summer Work Travel program regulations please click here.
The communication methods suggested above are the most efficient way to voice your support for cultural exchange and the Work & Travel program's value to your business. You may also contact your local congressmen directly to share your comments.
We look forward to continuing our work with you, connecting your business to qualified, enthusiastic J-1 Visa students through InterExchange Work & Travel USA.
If you have questions, please don't hesitate to contact us directly at worktravel@interexchange.org or 1.800.621.1202.
Thank you once again for your support and consideration.
Kind regards,
| Christine La Monica-Lunn CEO & Executive Director InterExchange |
Casey Slamin |
