Before You Travel
Organize your documents, review J-1 visa steps and complete orientation before departure.
Camp USA counselor guide
Camp USA Things to Know
Prepare for your J-1 Camp Counselor program with clear guidance on documents, visa steps, SEVIS validation, camp life, travel planning and post-program follow-up.
Before travelDocuments, visa, orientation
In the USAArrival, SEVIS, housing
Travel periodPost-camp travel planning
After programTaxes and next steps
Preparation guide
Prepare for each stage of your Camp USA program
Follow the key topics before departure, during your U.S. stay and after camp so you know what to complete, what to expect and when to ask for support.
While You Are in the USA
Arrive, validate SEVIS, settle into camp and handle practical items like banking and transportation.
After Your Program
Review tax information, stay connected and carry your cultural exchange experience forward.
Before travel
Get ready before departure
Prepare your documents, visa steps and orientation early so you can travel with confidence and arrive at camp ready to begin.
Getting ready for travel
Plan packing, arrival timing, communication and travel basics before departure.
View guidePre-departure documents
Keep your program, travel, insurance and visa documents organized and accessible.
View guideApplying for a J-1 Visa
Review the visa application process and prepare for your consulate interview.
View guidePre-arrival orientation
Learn program rules, safety expectations, cultural exchange goals and support channels.
View guideIn the USA
Settle in and stay on track
After arrival, focus on entry, SEVIS validation, housing, banking, transportation and cultural exchange activities.
Cultural activities
Take part in cultural exchange beyond your daily camp responsibilities.
View guideAfter camp
Complete your post-program steps
Your Camp USA experience continues after camp ends. Review post-program responsibilities, stay connected and carry your exchange experience forward.
Tax information
Review tax-related information that may apply after your U.S. work period.
View guideStay in touch with GEC
Share your story, stay connected and keep your cultural exchange network active.
View guidePreparation timeline
Know what comes next
Use this timeline to understand the main steps from camp offer to arrival and SEVIS validation.
Confirm offer
Review camp role, dates, salary, housing and meals
Prepare visa
Organize your DS-2019, SEVIS, application fee and consulate steps.
Attend orientation
Review safety, insurance, cultural exchange and program rules.
Arrive and validate
Enter the USA, travel to camp and complete SEVIS validation.
FAQ
Preparation questions
Quick answers to common questions before departure, after arrival and during the post-program travel period.
Focus on travel readiness, required documents, J-1 visa steps and pre-arrival orientation before you depart.
SEVIS validation confirms your program participation and supports compliant J-1 status while you are in the U.S.
Camp USA participants may have a post-program travel period, subject to J-1 program rules and visa status.
Ready to begin?
Start Your Camp USA Journey
Apply now and use this guide to stay organized from preparation to post-program follow-up.