Summer is almost here, and you will be packing your bags to travel to the US to begin your camp program before you know it. As your J-1 visa sponsor, IENA is here to support you every step of the way and to ensure that your travel and arrival experience goes as smoothly as possible.
At this time, some travelers may experience more detailed screenings at their U.S. port of entry upon arrival. This doesn’t happen to everyone, and most travelers arrive without any issues. However, IENA wants you to feel fully prepared, just in case, to ensure a smooth arrival experience.
Please read the following travel recommendations carefully:
1. BEFORE YOU TRAVEL
- Carry Printed Documents with you. Please bring paper copies (not just scans on your phone) of the following, in addition to the originals:
- Your DS-2019 Form
- Your SEVIS payment receipt (I-901 fee)
- Your passport and J-1 visa foil
- A printed job offer letter or contract from your camp on official letterhead
- Pack a Small Day Bag. In case of airport delays, consider keeping these items
in your carry-on:- A sweatshirt or light jacket (airports can be cold)
- A small snack (like an energy bar)
- A refillable water bottle (empty before security, refill after)
2. STAYING IN TOUCH
- Stay in contact with your camp while you are traveling! This is very important so you can confirm if your flight is on time, delayed, or if you are
experiencing delays upon arrival in the airport, etc. - Confirm the best phone number or email for your camp in advance so you can stay in contact while traveling.
- Before Passport Control: If you can, send a quick message to your camp letting them know you’ve landed at your destination and are headed to Immigration/ Passport Control.
- After Passport Control: Once you’re through immigration and have collected your bags, send a follow-up message confirming you’re through and on your way.
3. BORDER ENTRY AND DEVICE GUIDANCE
While it’s rare, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers may ask travelers (including U.S. citizens) to look at their phones or personal devices as part of a standard screening. As a reminder, you are entering America to participate in a Cultural Exchange Program and work with children. It is always a good idea to keep your online presence respectful and consistent with the goals of your exchange program.
4. KNOW HOW TO TALK ABOUT YOUR VISA AND PROGRAM
- Be prepared to answer questions regarding your visa and cultural exchange program
- Keep your answers succinct and to the point. Answer the questions you have been specifically asked and provide additional details if prompted to.
- Remember, “Yes” and “No” may be the simple and correct answer to a question!
- Be polite and courteous when going through immigration and customs
- Know your visa category!
- If you are a CAMP COUNSELOR, you are on a J-1 CAMP COUNSELOR VISA
- If you are a SUPPORT STAFF, you are on a J-1 SUMMER WORK AND TRAVEL VISA
- Not sure which visa category applies to your program? Please ask your recruiter or IENA before you travel!
- You are an EXCHANGE VISITOR ON A NON-IMMIGRANT CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAM
- You are NOT on a work visa
- Counselors and support staff are on a US Department of State designated Cultural Exchange Program
- Know the details of your camp! Be prepared to answer questions about your camp’s location, if someone is picking you up at the airport, your job at camp, etc.
- Remember, less is more! Keep it simple, and answer the specific questions asked.
5. DURING YOUR TIME IN THE US
- Avoid International Travel (e.g., Mexico or Canada) during time off unless approved and discussed with IENA or your camp. Re-entry to the U.S. could be complicated.
- Always carry your passport and J-1 visa when traveling within the U.S. While we do encourage you to keep the originals with you, please keep them safe!
- If needed, contact your embassy early for any support or documentation needs, as appointments may be limited.
- Know how to contact IENA in the event of a genuine emergency. You can reach us on our toll free 24/7 emergency line at 888-724-4292 ext 4.
We strongly want to emphasize- there is no need to worry, and you have an amazing summer ahead of you. Most travelers enter the US without any problems or delays. As your visa sponsor, it is our job to make sure you feel prepared for and supported during your program. These suggestions are simply best practices to help you feel prepared and confident when traveling.
If you ever feel unsure or need support during your travels, please don’t hesitate to contact IENA at 888 724 4292 (extension 4 for emergencies) or your camp directly. We’re looking forward to welcoming you soon and are here for you every step of the way. Let’s make Summer 2025 our greatest one yet!