Internship in the USA> FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

If I already have an internship or placement arranged, can I apply to IA&A for visa sponsorship?

Yes, we sponsor self-placements. Please go to the “Application Process” section on our website to submit your online application. Please include the offer of training on company letterhead signed with your supporting documents.

Can IA&A help me find an internship or traineeship?

Yes! Contact IA&A for listings, check the Placements page, and apply now for more assistance.

Can I get financial aid for my United States internship?

Yes! Contact IA&A for details.

How do I find a paid placement in the United States?

Contact IA&A for advice and resources. Also visit IA&A's links page for useful resource links. Research each company carefully before composing a personal, specific cover letter. Follow up on your application by phone or email. If you get an interview, send a thank-you note. Reach out to organizations for information interviews, by phone or in person. Reach out to organizations whose mission or activities inspire or interest you.

If I have already trained in the U.S. on a J1 visa, can I apply for another J1 visa through IA&A?

Yes, you may apply through IA&A if your previous J1 visa was in a non-trainee category--i.e. student, work and travel or au pair. If you meet the IA&A’s eligibility requirements and if you have been in the U.S. on a previous J1 visa other than trainee, you are eligible to re-enter the U.S. on a J1 trainee/intern visa.

What services does IA&A provide?

Legal sponsorship and documentation (DS-2019 form) necessary to apply for a J1 visa under the State Department's Exchange Visitor Program
Health insurance enrollment with HTH Worldwide
Pre-departure manual and information written and compiled by IA&A Staff
Mentoring throughout the duration of the program

What is the difference between a host organization and a sponsor organization?

A sponsor organization, such as IA&A, is designated by the U.S. State Department to administer individual exchange visitor programs. Sponsors select and place exchange visitors in the programs they provide.

A host organization is an institution that provides a job training or internship placement within one department or their office as a whole. A host organization can be a museum, gallery, performance center, magazine, dance studio, opera house, or an industrial design, fashion designer, or web-design firm. Non-arts-related hosts are considered on an individual basis.

Does IA&A sponsor applicants seeking placement in a non-arts-related organization?

Although the primary aim of IA&A is to provide practical job training in an arts-related career, IA&A is expanding its' services to offer professional experience in the fields of media and communication and management and commerce. For further inquiries regarding a non-arts-related placement, contact IA&A directly.

Are training/internship placements paid or unpaid?

IA&A will help you find a placement that is right for you. If you are looking for a paid placement, we will help you find something commensurate with your level of education and experience.

Can I extend my training or stay longer?

Yes. IA&A offers the maximum training period available, which is 18 months and maximum length of internship program, which is 12 months. If you wish to extend, you must request your training/internship extension at least four weeks before your current program in the U.S. ends. You will have to show that you either have at least $500 available to you per month to cover your living expenses or prove that you receive a stipend from your host. After your application for program extension is accepted, your health insurance will need to be extended and a new Training Agreements and Training/Internship Placement Plan will have to be processed. Then, a new DS-2019 form will need to be issued.

If I am unhappy with my training placement, can I change my host?

We will review any request on a case-by-case basis. Please provide a written reason why you wish to change your host and allow five to 10 days for our written reply. We require at least four weeks advance notice.

What is included in my participation fee?

J1 visa sponsorship, issuance of the DS-2019 form
Costs associated with monitoring, mentoring, and evaluation during placement
If applicable, assistance finding the right placement.
24-hour Emergency call lines.
Program Orientation Manual
USPS Express Mail Delivery

I received an invoice. Now how do I pay my Cultural Exchange Program fees?

Please use the link above to pay your Cultural Exchange Program fees.

Are there application deadlines?

IA&A accepts applications year-round. We need to receive your completed application four to eight weeks in advance. If you wish to apply to a specific host organization, please make sure to confirm their program deadlines.

Can IA&A expedite or rush my application and paperwork?

Yes! Contact IA&A directly to request Expedited Processing, in 2 weeks or less for a minimal extra fee.

Do I need a Social Security card?

You are required to apply for a Social Security card once you arrive in the U.S. to help you in all administrative and legal matters. Be aware there can be long delays receiving your Social Security card. We advise you to apply as soon as possible after you arrive. Please contact the U.S. Social Security Office at their website

Am I subject to U.S. income taxes?

If you are paid by your host organization, any wages you earn in the U.S. will be subject to "income tax" withholding. Make sure you give your host your Social Security number as soon as you receive it so any required taxes can be deducted from your paycheck. A J1 Visa holder may be exempt from certain taxes, including Social Security Tax, Medicare, and Federal Unemployment Tax.

If you lose your Social Security card, you can contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213.

Filing Income Tax Return: IA&A cannot provide expert tax advice. However, we recommend you view www.taxback.com or www.hrblock.com for further information.

What is my legal status?

International Arts & Artists remains your legal sponsor during the entire period of your stay in the U.S. You must inform IA&A if your U.S. address or phone number changes. You are not allowed to change your host organization before your new host is approved by IA&A and all required documents are processed. You are required to inform IA&A if you intend to end your training/internship in the U.S. earlier or if you intend to travel abroad.

As a J1 visa trainee/intern you are allowed to receive a financial compensation from your host organization only. You are not allowed to work in the U.S. on your J1 trainee/intern visa.

For further information please contact the Exchange Visitor Program, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, U.S. Department of State or contact IA&A International Training Program, Monday through Friday 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.