How do I find an internship in the U.S.?
We will present you with suitable internship opportunities with reputable U.S. companies from which you will choose from. See the internship program pages for sample listings of internship types we typically have available: Business Internships | Hospitality Internships | WEST Program. A list of open internships will be available to you at the time of acceptance to your program. If you have a prearranged internship already, we can confirm and sponsor your J1 visa.
What types of internships can I get?
The internship programs offer entry-level internships in hospitality, business management, marketing, advertising, web development, accounting, public administration, law training and more.
How old do I need to be?
Internship participants must be at least 18 years old.
How good does my English have to be?
You must be fluent in English and feel confident with both your written and spoken skills.
How much do I need to pay?
The cost of your specific program is determined by your local Intrax partner office representative if you are working with a partner office. Please contact your local Intrax partner office for more information. In addition to the program fee, the embassy will charge you for your visa application; you will need to pay for a round trip flight to the U.S. and you will be responsible for the costs of your housing and meals. See our general Fees & Eligibility page.
How do I find housing?
You will be given at least one housing option in addition to your internship placement; however, you are ultimately responsible for confirming your accommodations while in the U.S. You must arrange at least temporary housing before you leave home so that you may complete your immigration documents accurately with an accommodation address in the United States. Many employers provide housing or assistance with housing as a part of your internship. Please refer to your placement documents for more information.
What type of visa do I need in order to intern in the U.S.?
In order to participate in an internship, you will need to have the appropriate J-1 Visitor Exchange Program Visa. The purpose of the Visitor Exchange Program is to provide foreign nationals with the opportunity to participate in educational and cultural programs in the United States. Intrax will work with you to determine which type of J-1 visa you will need for your specific program (either a J-1 Internship visa or a J-1 Trainee visa).
What is a J-1 Internship visa?
A J-1 Internship visa allows students and recent graduates to intern with a U.S.-based host organization for up to 12 months. In addition, you have a 30-day grace period to remain in the country.
What is J-1 Trainee Visa?
A J-1 Trainee visa allows students and young professionals to train with a U.S.-based host organization for up to 18 months. Training within the hospitality and tourism industries allow up to 12 months. In addition, you have a 30-day grace period to remain in the country.
How long after the expiration of my visa must I leave the U.S.?
The expiration date for the visa should not be confused with the authorized length of your stay in the U.S., given to you by the U.S. immigration inspector at port-of-entry, on the Arrival-Departure Record, Form I-94. The U.S. Department of State notation, shown on your Arrival-Departure Record, I-94 is the official record of your authorized length of stay in the U.S. Also, you are allowed to stay additional 30-day following the successful completion of the program from the end date stated on your Form DS-2019.
For more information about visas to enter the U.S. please visit this site: http://travel.state.gov/
What program is best for me?
Intrax offers three internship programs: Business Internships | Hospitality Internships | WEST Program.
Your Intrax internship experience will be unique to you, and we work to match our participants with the best host company possible based on a number of factors such as: area of academic study, professional goals, interests and previous work experience.
How long does the entire process take?
Once you have applied for the program it usually takes between 3-6 weeks for completion of all of the necessary paperwork.
Do I have to stay at one internship?
By signing an Intrax Internship Offer, you are agreeing to intern for a particular employer. Intrax requires that you honor this commitment. However, if you are experiencing problems we are here to assist you. You should always feel free to contact us at any time if you are experiencing difficulties.
Can I get a second internship?
Internship participants are not allowed to intern or train with more than one company at a time.
Can I come before my internship starts?
You may arrive up to 2 weeks before your program begins. This time gives you the opportunity to get settled in your housing, apply for your Social Security card, and learn your way around before starting your program. If you choose to arrive early and stay in the housing provided with the position, please contact Intrax in advance to confirm your housing will be available.
How much money should I bring?
You should bring enough money to pay for food and housing for your first month in the U.S. This is important, because you may not receive your first paycheck until after you've been working for two weeks. As a general rule, you should have enough money for one month's rent, and an additional $1,000 when you arrive.
What about medical insurance?
Most interns are required to have medical insurance. Intrax provides coverage with AVI International Insurance. This insurance includes basic travel insurance but does not cover pre-existing medical conditions. If you stay for the 30-day grace period it is your responsibility to maintain your medical insurance coverage by contacting us and purchasing an additional 30 days of insurance.
Who can I contact in case of an emergency?
Intrax offers a toll-free 24-hour emergency help line during your stay in the U.S.: 1-888-224-0450. However, should you have life threatening emergency you should call the appropriate authorities (police, fire department and ambulance) by dialing 911 from any telephone.
Can I extend my stay in the U.S.?
The maximum duration of an Internship Program is 12 - 18 months depending on your specific program. If you are interested in extending your program please contact Intrax.
Can I come back again?
You may apply for additional internship programs if you still qualify for an internship program, and have completed at least 2 semesters of study in between the internship programs.