Official BridgeUSA Partner Program
J-1 and J-2 SEVIS Hospitality Internship in the USA
A government-recognized cultural exchange program designed to train the next generation of hospitality professionals in world-class U.S. hotels and restaurants.
- Restaurant
- Housekeeping
- Culinary
- 6–18 months
About this program
This is a teaching-first program — not merely a placement. Participants are developed as Junior Managers and Supervisors through a structured training plan across key hotel operations departments. You gain real U.S. hospitality experience while on a legally issued J-1 visa.
Department rotation
Cultural exchange
Return required
Sponsor-backed
Eligibility criteria
- Age 34 or under at the time of application
- Minimum 5 years (60 months) of experience in the same hospitality department
- At least a high school education
- Good command of English (IELTS/TOEFL not required unless specified by host)
- Hospitality or hotel management education is an advantage, not mandatory
Available programs
Most popular
12-Month All-Inclusive
One host company, one immersive year
- Placed with a single U.S. host hotel
- 12 months duration
- USD 120 bi-weekly after work begins
Route 66
6+6 Month Dual Placement
Two host companies, double the exposure
- Two different U.S. host companies
- 6 months each placement
- USD 120 bi-weekly after work begins
Fees and cost structure
Standard program cost ranges from USD 10,115 to USD 15,115. Airfare and visa fees are not included.
| Payment | Amount | When |
|---|---|---|
| Enrolment fee | USD 500 | 1st — upfront |
| Program fee + SEVIS fee | USD 3,500 | 2nd — on job offer |
| DS-2019 received (visa guarantee letter) | USD 3,000 | 3rd — on DS-2019 |
| Remaining balance | – | – |
| Dental insurance | USD 115 (one-time) | Paid before departure |
| Visa fee | Varies by nationality | Paid locally at consulate |
| Airfare | Varies | Paid by candidate |
Step-by-step application process
Important things to know before applying
- Housing is not always provided — always confirm accommodation terms before enrolling.
- Salary may feel lower than expected after U.S. taxes, rent, and living costs are factored in.
- You cannot switch host companies, sponsors, visa status, or take side jobs during the program.
- Visa approval is never guaranteed — it is solely at the discretion of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- Your legal stay depends on your DS-2019 + SEVIS record, not just the visa stamp in your passport.
- Some J-1 holders are subject to a 2-year home residency rule before applying for H-1B or Green Card routes.
Cancellation and refund policy
Non-refundable in all cases
Registration & processing fee (USD 500) and SEVIS fee (~USD 240) are non-refundable regardless of circumstances.
No refund if you withdraw after start date or are dismissed
Once the program begins, withdrawing for any reason or being dismissed results in no refund of program fees.
In case of visa denial, the program fee is refundable less USD 895, provided you notify SAAP Global before the J-1 program start date and return the DS-2019 form.
Ready to start your U.S. hospitality journey?
SAAP Global will guide you from eligibility assessment through to visa and travel. Reach out to begin your application today.