U.S. Embassy Contact
If possible, maintain communication with embassy officials through personal meetings, phone calls, or email. At the very least, stay updated on the embassy website. Ideally, you should ask the embassy for the following information:
- What documents and paperwork are necessary for embassy interviews?
- All fees associated with J-1 Visa processing.
- Timeline for submitting the DS-160 visa application and DS-2019 Forms.
- Specific requirements for J-1 Visa acceptance. For example, if an applicant provides documentation of good financial standing or reasons for returning home (such as strong family ties, university dates, or a job), their chances of visa approval are often greatly improved. In some countries, first-year and last-year students will not be granted a visa, even if they are applying as counselors. Learn and understand your country’s specific requirements.
- Does the embassy prefer group appointments or individual appointments?
- Is there a deadline by which applicants must submit their applications? Is there a specific date by which applicants must apply for their visas?
- Does the embassy permit you to submit applicants’ paperwork as a group or only one at a time?
- Provide this information to the applicants in a standard checklist form before they schedule their embassy appointments. A sample checklist could include items such as a passport, a DS-2019 form, financial documentation, and proof of ties to the home country. Good preparation will help the participants avoid visa denials or repeat visits due to missing paperwork.
Understand the Purpose of the J-1 Visa
The J-1 Camp Counselor visa is an exchange program, not a work visa. The embassy wants to confirm that applicants:
- Intend to participate in cultural exchange.
- Are qualified to work with children at camp.
- Plan to return home after the program.
Gather Required Documents
Gather Required Documents
Applicants should bring:
- DS-2019 form (Certificate of Eligibility) from their sponsor.
- DS-160 confirmation page with photo.
- SEVIS fee receipt.
- Visa application fee receipt.
- Passport (valid at least 6 months beyond U.S. stay).
- Interview appointment confirmation.
- Supporting documents (if requested by the consulate):
- Camp placement letter / contract.
- Proof of ties to home country (university enrollment, job offer, family responsibilities, etc.).
- Resume or proof of childcare/teaching/relevant experience.
Preparing Paticipants for Embassy Interview
Practice Common Interview Questions
They should be prepared to answer clearly and honestly, in English, about:
- Motivation: Why do you want to be a camp counselor in the U.S.?
- Experience: What experience do you have working with children or leading activities?
- Cultural Exchange: What do you hope to share about your own culture? What do you hope to learn about American culture?
- Future Plans: What will you do after camp? How will the program help your studies or career at home?
Show Confidence and Professionalism
- Dress neatly (business casual is fine).
- Answer questions directly, don’t memorize a script.
- Speak honestly — it’s okay if their English isn’t perfect; the officer mainly wants to see confidence and clarity.
- Keep answers short and to the point (visa interviews are usually only a few minutes).
Highlight Cultural Exchange, Not Just Work
- Emphasize learning, leadership, and cross-cultural experience.
- Make it clear they understand this is temporary and they intend to return home.
Logistical Prep
- Arrive early at the embassy.
- Don’t bring unnecessary items (bags, electronics, often aren’t allowed inside).
- Keep documents organized in a folder for quick access.
A good mindset for applicants: “I’m here to share my skills, learn about U.S. culture, and bring back what I learn to my community.”