Internship & Training Program
Overview
The internship and training program allows foreign college or university students including recent graduates to come to the United States and gain experience in their chosen fields such as hospitality and service industries. This opportunity is also open to non-graduates who have at least five (5) years of working experience in hotels, restaurants, food and beverage, and other related industries. Additionally, internships are generally offered in the following occupational categories:
• Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing;
• Arts and Culture;
• Construction and Building Trades;
• Education, Social Sciences, Library Science, Counseling and Social Services;
• Health Related Occupations;
• Hospitality and Tourism;
• Information Media and Communications;
• Management, Business, Commerce and Finance;
• Public Administration and Law; and
• The Sciences, Engineering, Architecture, Mathematics and Industrial Occupations
A. J-1 Visa Program for Interns and Trainees
The BridgeUSA Internship and Training Program is non-immigrant visa category program granted to qualified individuals subject to the rules and regulations of the US Department of State, visa sponsor and the host company. Through this program, qualified interns and trainees sharpen their skills and knowledge that will jumpstart their careers while experiencing new cultures and traditions.
B. Duration of the Program
Interns and trainees in the United States are eligible to participate in 6-12 months. After this period of time, interns and trainees are allowed to legally stay in the United States for one (1) month to explore the country and prepare to go back to their home country.
C. Program Benefits
Internships and training abroad in general bridge the gap between formal education and practical work experience. International exposure gives interns and trainees the opportunity to be globally competitive and leverage their skills with international standards of practice.
Eligibility
Interns must be a foreign national who:
• is 18-35 years of age
• are currently enrolled in and pursuing studies at a foreign degree- or certificate-granting post-secondary academic institution outside the United States; or
• have graduated from such an institution no more than 12 months prior to their exchange visitor program start date.
Trainees must be a foreign national who:
• is 20-35 years of age
• have graduated with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional certificate in Hospitality Management, Hotel and Restaurant, Culinary, Tourism or related programs with at least one (1) year of related work experience
• is a non-hospitality degree graduate but with at least five (5) years of work experience in Hospitality Management, Hotel and Restaurant, Culinary, Tourism or related programs.
Registration Process
1. Complete the registration form.
2. Participate in interview screening and pre-qualification.
3. Complete the registration packet.
4. Pay the registration fee.