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Frequently Asked Questions


What do the program fees include?
  • Internship or Training position secured prior to arrival if you choose the Full Service Placement Option or verification of internship opportunity if you have a self-arranged position
  • DS-2019 Paperwork process for J-1 Visa documentation. AAG is a designated "Sponsor" by the U.S. Department of State for the J-1 Trainee and Intern programs
  • Detailed training plan (DS-7002 Form) that charts your progression and learning during the program
  • Health/Travel Insurance
  • Orientation
  • Housing assistance upon request
  • An Emergency 24-hour Assistance telephone number: 1 866 IM IN USA Support during the program with any issues you may have
  • Participant handbook
  • One month to travel within the USA after the training placement has been completed
  • Access to tax refund services that will assist you in filing your taxes and help you in reclaiming any portion of the taxes paid in the U.S. that are due to you (optional)
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    Flight Tickets, SEVIS fee, Host Company Site visit and Visa fee payable to the U.S Embassy in your home country are not included.

    How long does the internship process take?

    The process usually takes around 2 ~ 4 months.

    Would you help me in case the company doesn’t provide any information about housing?

    Yes, we would help you in finding an affordable an appropriate housing according to your situation. Usually we will provide some housing leads, though it is your responsibility to find and secure the housing. You are required to secure at least temporary housing prior to arrival.

    What types of positions do you offer for J-1 Intern/Trainee Programs?

    Paid and unpaid training positions are available in Business and Management, Information Technology, Culinary Arts, Food & Beverages, Hospitality Training, Mass Communication, Restaurant Management, and more! We specialize in hospitality positions but may be able to place people from other fields.

    Where are your positions located?

    AAG has long-standing relationships with host companies all over the United States for our Intern/Trainee Programs participants.

    How long can the program be?

    The J-1 Intern program is for a maximum of 12 months and Trainee program is for a maximum of 18 months. If you are training in the field of hospitality, your program is limited to 12 months.

    Once I am accepted on the program, who do I contact for questions, help and support?

    Our local agency in your home country will present an orientation to you before you leave for the United States. You will also receive an online orientation from AAG. After the orientations, and anytime during your program, you will have access to an Outreach Coordinator who will help you with any questions that you have.

    What is SEVIS?

    SEVIS stands for "Student Exchange Visitor Information System", and it has been set up by the U.S government in an effort to keep track of all the exchange visitors on J-1 visas and international students on F or M visas. Therefore, all of the participants on J-1 Intern/Trainee Program MUST check-in with SEVIS within 10 days of your arrival for program validation and if there is any change of your U.S address during the program, you need to update SEVIS about the changes within 10 days of the change to maintain a good visa status. If you forget this important rule required by the U.S Government, you are going to be in danger of losing your visa status. You can find more information about SEVIS in your orientation materials and participant handbook.

    How do I apply for my Social Security Card?

    You have to arrive in the United States first to apply for your Social Security Card. After you arrive, email your Outreach Coordinator to confirm your arrival in the United States and let him/her know your home address. After 10 days, you will go to the closest social security office with your important documents, such as your visa, passport, DS-2019 Form (work certificate) and I-94 card (you will get this on the airplane) to apply for your Social Security Card. All you have to do is fill out an application, give copies of your important documents, and then wait four to six weeks for your card to arrive at your work address.

    How do I reach my Outreach Coordinator?

    Your Outreach Coordinator is reachable by phone or email during 8:30AM to 5:30PM, Monday to Friday. If you need help outside of the business hours, AAG offers an emergency & toll-free number (1-866-622-7023) for you to call to report problems or get answers to your questions after hours.

    What if I get sick or injured when I am in the United States?

    AAG provides you with traveler's insurance which will help you pay for medical costs if you become ill or are injured during your time in the United States. Your Outreach Coordinator can help you answer questions about the insurance and how to use it at a pre-approved doctor's office or hospital. Please be sure to always call the insurance company for pre-approval (except in cases of emergency). If you do not, you may be responsible for the charges incurred.

    I want to visit famous landmarks in the USA after my program. How long can I travel?

    You are eligible to travel for up to 30 days after the latest end date on your DS-2019 form, unless the US Embassy in your home country has a strict return date. Don't forget that you must return to your country at the end of your 30-day travel period.