Thank you for your interest in becoming a Host Organization for J-1 Exchange Visitors participating in the Department of State’s BridgeUSA Trainee Program!

To get started please submit a very quick Host Organization Initial Interest form.

The J-1 Trainee Program is a great way to add diversity to your workplace, incorporate unique business perspectives, increase global awareness of your organization, and spread US business culture. If your company meets the below requirements, you may be eligible to host an international trainee on the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program, and we would be happy to work with you!

J-1 Trainee Host Organization Eligibility:

Have an Employer ID Number

Have been incorporated and in business for at least one year
Have an active Worker’s Compensation policy or qualified exemption
Have at least 5 full time and on-site employees per training site
Do not exceed a 5:1 ratio of U.S. staff to J-1 Trainees
Have sufficient resources for on-site supervision by experienced supervisors and staff
Willing to provide bona-fide training opportunities for the trainee and outline a robust training plan tailored to the individual
Offer a minimum of 32 hours per week of training to the trainee
Willing to provide cultural experiences and guidance for the trainee

Will not utilize the trainee for ordinary employment or recruitment purposes for permanent employment, to displace an American worker, or assist the trainee in obtaining a change of visa status during their program

Offer a training experience in one of the following occupational fields:

    • Education, Social Sciences, Library Science, Counseling and Social Services (up to 18 months duration)
    • Hospitality and Tourism (up to 12 months duration)
    • Management, Business, Commerce and Finance (up to 18 months duration)

Offer a training experience that does NOT involve:

    • Unskilled, casual, or manual labor
    • An excess of 20% clerical or office support work
    • Home offices

Please review the J-1 Trainee Host Organization Agreement which serves as the program rules and explains your role as a Host Organization. 

Take the next step – submit a quick Host Organization Initial Interest form.

For more information please email j1trainee@teacherscouncil.com.