Book your flight
After you receive your passport with the J-1 visa and your DS-2019 form, you can begin final travel planning. If you are working with a GEC partner agency, they may provide guidance on flight arrangements and arrival timing.
You should book a round trip ticket and, when possible, choose a ticket that can be changed without a high fee. Completing your paperwork early usually gives you more flight options and better prices.
- Do not make final U.S. travel plans until your visa is issued
- Confirm your camp arrival date before purchasing a ticket
- Look for student or youth fares when available
- Keep your full itinerary accessible during travel
Pack these in your carry-on
Keep your essential documents and valuables in your carry-on baggage. Do not place these items in checked luggage, because you may need them before you collect your checked bags after U.S. immigration.
- Passport with J-1 visa
- DS-2019 form
- Evidence of financial resources, such as bank cards, credit cards or cash
- GEC Work Agreement with your host camp contact information
- Insurance information
- Arrival address, transportation details and camp arrival instructions
- Valuables such as laptop, camera or fragile personal items
Arrival information
Before departure, confirm where you will stay when you arrive in the United States and how you will travel to your camp or meeting location. Keep this information printed or saved offline in case your phone battery, internet access or roaming service is limited.
At the airport, you may need to present your passport, J-1 visa, DS-2019 and supporting documents to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Copies and backup records
Make copies of your important travel and program documents before leaving home. Give a copy to a trusted family member or friend and keep digital copies in a secure place you can access while traveling.
Copies are especially useful if a document is lost or stolen. They do not replace originals, but they can help GEC, your camp or local authorities assist you more quickly.
Health reminders
Take care of routine medical and dental needs before departure. Program insurance is designed for eligible sickness or injury during the program and may not cover routine care, pre-existing conditions or non-urgent dental treatment.
- Complete any routine dental work before travel
- Schedule a physical checkup if needed
- Bring an adequate supply of current medications
- Review your insurance details in your GEC record
- Carry prescriptions and medical information in your carry-on when appropriate