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Home > All programs > United States
Working Holiday in the USA
Experience life in the United States with Global Work and Travel
Program
Working Holiday
Destination
United States
Duration
12 months
Ages
18 to 37 years
Program overview
The United States, a land of boundless opportunity and diversity, offers an experience unlike any other. Spanning vast landscapes, from bustling cities to serene national parks, this iconic country has long captivated the hearts of travellers. Now, imagine calling it home for up to 12 months, thanks to Global Work and Travel’s USA Hotel Professional programme.
Navigating the complexities of securing a work visa for the USA can be daunting. The process is time-consuming, costly, and riddled with uncertainty. However, with Global Work and Travel, you can sidestep the hassles and dive straight into a curated experience. A working holiday in the USA is your gateway to mastering the art of American hospitality. Whether you’re stationed at a boutique hotel in the picturesque Napa Valley or working in a vibrant city like New York, this experience is designed to enrich your professional skills and provide memories to last a lifetime.
This isn’t just a job; it’s a paid internship where you’ll be trained in various hotel divisions over your 12-month stay, gaining hands-on experience in your field.
There’s no need to worry about spending months abroad without income, as your paid internship, offering up to $20 per hour, will be arranged before you leave home.
When you’re not working, the adventure continues. With the financial freedom your internship provides, you can explore more of this vast country. Perhaps a cross-country road trip or immersing yourself in the vibrant festival scene appeals to you. To sweeten the deal, Global Work and Travel offers five nights at a hostel anywhere in America, giving you the perfect opportunity to travel and discover new places.
And if you’re concerned about being alone in a foreign land, fear not. You’ll be instantly connected with a network of fellow travellers through the gWorld app, ensuring you have friends to share your experiences with, whether you’re in the city or the mountains.
Global Work and Travel simplifies every aspect of your journey, from start to finish. But be warned—spaces are limited, and most travellers book their trip 6 to 12 months in advance. With their “Book Now, Decide Later” feature, you can secure your spot with a small deposit and take up to a year to finalise your plans. This is more than just a working holiday in the USA; it’s the ultimate opportunity to enhance your skills, make lifelong memories, and explore one of the most fascinating countries in the world, all with unwavering support from Global Work and Travel.
Requirements
To embark on this incredible journey, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be between 18 and 37 years of age
- Hold citizenship in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, or Ireland
- Have no criminal convictions in the past five years
- Be in good health
You must also possess five years of experience in hospitality, tourism, or hotel management. Note: Experience at a local fast food chain or restaurant qualifies, provided you have five consecutive years in the same type of hospitality.
OR
Hold a bachelor’s degree in hospitality, tourism, or hotel management with at least one year of relevant experience.
OR
Be currently studying for a degree in hospitality, tourism, hotel, or business management, or have graduated within the last 12 months at the time of applying for the visa.
Inclusions
- Paid internship/traineeship
- J-1 visa sponsorship
- J-1 visa guidance
- Dedicated Trip Coordinator
- Personal Travel Concierge
- Airport Transfer Assistance
- 5 nights hostel accommodation
- Medical insurance
- SIM card, bank account + more
- Online orientation
- Permanent accommodation support
- Ongoing local team support
- Global Emergency Line
- gWorld & Social app access
- Global Academy
- Marketplace deals
- £150 off your next working holiday
Details
Global Work and Travel’s USA Hotel Professional programme is meticulously designed to ensure your transition into a paid hospitality internship is as smooth as possible. Their mission is to save you time, money, and stress while minimising the risk of an early return home. Here’s how they do it:
From the moment you sign up, you’ll have a dedicated Trip Coordinator by your side. This knowledgeable guide will walk you through each step of the process, addressing any questions or concerns you might have along the way.
Securing a J-1 visa is often the most challenging part of planning a working holiday in the USA. It’s a process fraught with complexities and potential pitfalls. Fortunately, your Trip Coordinator, alongside Global Work and Travel’s extensive network of contacts in the United States, will assist you in navigating the application process, giving you the best chance of success.
In addition to visa support, Global Work and Travel offers a Personal Travel Concierge to help with your flights, travel insurance, and any additional arrangements you might need. These aren’t automated services; you’ll be dealing with real people who understand the nuances of international travel and are committed to ensuring your trip goes off without a hitch.
Upon arrival in the USA, you’ll either be greeted with arranged transportation or provided with detailed instructions on how to reach your accommodation. From there, your journey truly begins.
The nature of your first week will depend on your specific placement. In hotel positions, you can expect an orientation period where you’ll meet fellow exchange participants and new colleagues, giving you a chance to acclimate to your new environment. For restaurant placements, you might dive straight into your role, learning on the job and quickly becoming a part of the team.
Finding a paid internship at a top-rated establishment is no small feat, particularly as a foreigner. However, Global Work and Travel’s well-established relationships with a wide network of businesses across the USA mean they can confidently secure your placement before you even leave home. Their commitment to your success doesn’t end there; they remain in touch throughout your stay, offering support whenever needed. Whether it’s a quick question or an urgent matter, they’re just a message, email, or call away. In case of emergencies, their 24/7 support line is available to assist you.
With a team that’s well-travelled and experienced, you can trust that you’re in good hands from beginning to end.
Itinerary
This working holiday in the USA offers a perfect blend of professional development and personal exploration. Here’s what you can expect:
On arrival
Your journey begins with a flight to the airport nearest your placement. Depending on your arrangement, transport will either be waiting for you, or you’ll receive guidance on the best way to reach your new home.
Week 1
The first week will vary depending on your placement. If you’re in a hotel, you’ll likely start with an orientation, where you’ll meet fellow participants and new colleagues. This session will introduce you to the hotel, its operations, and what’s expected of you.
In restaurant placements, you might jump straight into your role with a brief introduction, followed by on-the-job training alongside some of the best professionals in the industry.
After that
The learning continues as you settle into your role. You’ll be working alongside seasoned professionals, absorbing valuable insights and honing your skills in real-world settings.
When you have time off, take advantage of the five complimentary nights at a hostel anywhere in the USA. You’re free to explore the vast landscapes of America, or even venture further afield to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean.
Throughout your stay, Global Work and Travel will be there to support you. Whether you need advice on local customs or help with travel plans, their team is just a call away.
Jobs & locations
Your journey begins as you fly into the airport closest to your assigned position in the United States. The USA is vast and varied, and your placement could be anywhere across this incredible country, from the sunny beaches of Miami to the snowy peaks of Aspen.
Global Work and Travel partners with some of the most prestigious hotels and restaurants in the hospitality industry, ensuring that your traineeship not only hones your skills but also looks impressive on your CV. You’ll gain valuable experience in various departments, including:
- Culinary
- Food & beverage
- Front desk
- Rooms division
Whether you’re rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous in Aspen, fuelling the vibrant nightlife of New Orleans, or enjoying the musical heartbeat of Nashville, you’ll be placed in some of the most exciting locations the USA has to offer. Other potential destinations include:
- New Orleans
- Orlando
- Miami
- Napa Valley
- San Diego
- Aspen
- Nashville
- Dallas
- Santa Barbra
- Seattle
- San Francisco
These placements are more than just jobs; they are opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture while advancing your career in hospitality.
Promo code
Unlock the adventure of a working holiday in the USA with our exclusive deal. Use the promo code “18TO35TRAVEL” to save £50 off any product or service from Global Work and Travel.
BRAND
Global Work and Travel
DEAL
Save £50
Use the promo code “18TO35TRAVEL” to save £50 off any Global Work & Travel package.
BRAND
Global Work and Travel
DEAL
Save $50
Use the promo code “18TO35TRAVEL” to save $50 off any Global Work & Travel package.
FAQ
What are the eligibility requirements for the USA Working Holiday programme?
To be eligible, you must be between 18 and 35 years old, have a valid passport, and meet the criteria for a J-1 visa, including demonstrating financial stability and passing a background check.
How does Global Work and Travel assist with the J-1 visa application?
Global Work and Travel guides you through the entire J-1 visa process, including providing necessary documentation, helping with your visa interview preparation, and ensuring you meet all requirements.
What types of job placements are available through the programme?
Job placements range across various sectors, including hospitality, tourism, retail, and customer service, allowing you to gain diverse work experience in the USA.
What kind of support can I expect upon arrival in the USA?
Upon arrival, you’ll receive support with airport transfers, accommodation arrangements, and an orientation session to help you settle in and understand your new environment.
How much can I earn during the internship, and are tips included?
Earnings vary by position, with most roles paying the US minimum wage or higher. In some roles, tips may also be included, especially in hospitality.
What is included in the programme’s accommodation support?
The programme offers assistance in finding suitable accommodation, which may include pre-arranged housing options or support in securing your own place to stay.
How do the gWorld app and Global Academy enhance my experience?
The gWorld app provides resources like job listings and local tips, while Global Academy offers online training and certifications to boost your skills and employability.
What are the steps involved from booking to starting the programme?
After booking, you’ll complete the visa application, receive job placement support, arrange your accommodation, and attend pre-departure briefings before starting your working holiday.
Can I extend my stay or transition to a different visa after the programme?
Extensions or transitions to other visas are possible, but they depend on your situation and visa type. It’s advised to consult with an immigration expert during your stay.
What happens if my plans change after booking?
If your plans change, Global Work and Travel offers flexible options, including rescheduling or transferring your booking, depending on the circumstances.
Why Global Work and Travel
Choosing Global Work and Travel for your USA working holiday means opting for a seamless, expertly managed experience from start to finish. Here’s why this programme stands out:
- Lifetime Deposit Guarantee: With Global Work and Travel, your investment is secure. If your plans change, you can swap dates, gift your trip, or save it for later with no hassle.
- Paid Internship/Traineeship: You’ll be placed at a top-tier hotel or restaurant, earning up to $18 per hour (plus tips where applicable), while gaining invaluable skills that will boost your career.
- J-1 Visa Sponsorship: Global Work and Travel will organise your J-1 visa sponsorship through their US partner office, authorised by the US Department of State.
- J-1 Visa Guidance: Benefit from expert assistance throughout the visa application process, ensuring a smooth and successful experience.
- Dedicated Trip Coordinator: From start to finish, your Trip Coordinator will be there to guide you, answer questions, and handle any issues that arise.
- Personal Travel Concierge: Tailor your travel arrangements to perfection with the help of a real, experienced travel concierge.
- Airport Transfer Assistance: Seamless arrival is guaranteed, with either pre-arranged transportation or detailed instructions on getting to your host company.
- 5 Nights Hostel Accommodation: Enjoy five nights in a 4-bed hostel anywhere in the USA, courtesy of Global Work and Travel.
- Medical Insurance: Rest easy knowing that you’re covered for medical care during your placement.
- Local Life Essentials: Receive a prepaid US SIM card with unlimited national calls and texts, help with setting up a bank account, and assistance in obtaining a Social Security Number.
- Online Orientation: Arrive in the USA fully prepared, having completed an online orientation that covers all the essentials of your new role and life abroad.
- Permanent Accommodation Support: If your job doesn’t include accommodation, Global Work and Travel will assist you in finding the perfect place to live.
- Ongoing Local Team Support: Think of them as your family away from home, offering unlimited support whenever you need it.
- Global Emergency Line: A worldwide emergency team is on standby, 24/7, to assist with any urgent issues.
- gWorld Access: Stay organised and connected with the gWorld app, where you can manage all your important documents and details in one place.
- Social Network: Travel alone but never feel lonely, thanks to the exclusive social network within the gWorld app, where you can meet and connect with other Global Travellers in your area.
- Global Academy: Access a range of skills and language courses before and during your travels.
- Marketplace Deals: Save big with exclusive discounts and deals from Global Work and Travel’s brand partners worldwide.
- £150 Off Your Next Trip: Once you’ve caught the travel bug, it’s hard to stop. Book another trip with Global Work and Travel later and enjoy a £150 discount.
In summary, Global Work and Travel offers more than just a working holiday in the USA. They provide a comprehensive, worry-free experience that allows you to focus on what truly matters: making the most of your time in the United States, advancing your career, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re looking to build your professional skills, explore new places, or meet like-minded travellers, Global Work and Travel has everything you need to make it happen.
- Lifetime deposit guarantee
- Worldwide support
- 15+ years experience
- 94,000+ customers
- Payment plans
Other working holiday programs
BRAND
Global Work and Travel
DEAL
Save £50
Use the promo code “18TO35TRAVEL” to save £50 off any Global Work & Travel package.
BRAND
Global Work and Travel
DEAL
Save $50
Use the promo code “18TO35TRAVEL” to save $50 off any Global Work & Travel package.
Reserve with a £1 deposit now
Reserve with a $1 deposit now
Secure your place today and pay later. Use our promo code “18TO35TRAVEL” and save £50 🎉
Secure your place today and pay later. Use our promo code “18TO35TRAVEL” and save $50 🎉
