FAQ - SWAP USA

• Can I work anywhere in the USA?
• Can my visa be mailed to me in the USA?
• How do I find a job?
• Can I begin work before my visa arrives?
• Can I extend my visa?
• Can I commute from Canada to the USA to work?
• Is my American employer my official sponsor?
• When does the visa start?

Can I work anywhere in the USA? Yes. Where you wish to work in the USA is entirely up to you.
^up

Can my visa be mailed to me in the USA? Absolutely not. Your DS-2019/J-1 visa status (allowing you to work in the US) must be activated at the border by a US immigration officer. Having your work documentation mailed to you in the States is illegal. Furthermore, not having your visa activated will mean that you will not be able to successfully obtain a Social Security card or be paid. In such cases, the only solution would be to exit and re-enter the United States.
^up

How do I find a job? There are a variety of ways to find work. A good place to start is the USA section at www.swap.ca. Each year we seek employment opportunities through our database of American employers. Being resourceful with the Internet / newspapers and checking college employment boards are other helpful ways to locate work. Don't forget to talk to friends, family and teachers who may have contacts in the US and may be able to provide you with some leads!
^up

Can I begin work before my permit arrives? Absolutely not! You are not legally permitted to work in the US until your employment authorization (DS-2019) and I-94 card (given to you by Immigration upon entry) are stamped with your J-1 status at the border.
^up

Can I extend my visa? No. SWAP USA is a four-month summer program only. You are permitted to remain in the United States as a tourist for 30 days after the expiry date on your work visa.
^up

Can I commute between Canada and the USA for work? No. The purpose of SWAP USA is to have a cultural experience by living and working in the United States. Commuting is not permitted and contravenes US immigration regulations.
^up

Is my American employer my offical sponsor? No. Our American partner organization is your official program sponsor. More details will be provided to you in your acceptance package
^up

When does my visa start ? The participant chooses the start date of the visa and has 10 days to enter from that.
^up