FAQs for Candidates

Can I leave the USA and re-enter on my J- 1 Visa?

You may leave and re-enter the U.S.A. without obtaining a new visa, provided the visa and DS-2019 form have not expired, you hold a multiple-entry visa, the passport is still valid, and you have a copy of the DS-2019 form in your possession. Before you leave the United States, however, the sponsor organization must coordinate a signature on the front of the DS-2019 form to show that you are still in good standing with the trainee program.

Can I choose to extend my Visa once I arrive in the USA?

Extensions are difficult to obtain and also expensive due to new non-refundable fees required by the United States Government. Participant who wish to extend their Visa need to request it not less than 30 days prior to the expiration date on the DS-2019. It is also extremely important that applicants apply for the maximum amount of time they are able to train in order to avoid the need to submit an extension application.

What if I lose the copy of the DS2019 form?

A $50 fee will be asking you to replace your DS-2019. Without this document you are not legal in USA so make a copy! If you lose your passport, contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate as soon as possible so that they can assist you in obtaining new documentation.

What kind of positions can I expect to be offered through this program?

Through this program, you will have access to various entry-level positions, depending on your background but there are three basic training scenarios:
The first and most ideal for you, the graduate, will be to be offered a supervisory or management position right after having caused a good impression on the hotel. However, this is not mandatory, and even in this position you will be required to continue learning for your future career.The second will be that the hotel does not have a management position open and/or you are not ready for this position yet. However, when or if the position becomes available and you prove to be capable of it, you will have the possibility of getting promoted.The third and no less attractive than the others, will be that the hotel will not have a management position throughout the whole 12-18 months, but you will get the proper training to be able to become a manager in the future.

Do I have to take a TOEFL or TOEIC exam in order to qualify for the program?

No TOEFL or TOEIC scores are preferred. These test results aid in the application process. Your English skills will also be evaluated in a phone interview during the application process.

Who should I ask to write my letters of recommendation?

If possible, you should ask your previous managers or supervisors to write them for you. If you are not able to ask your previous managers or supervisors, you may ask your professors or teachers to write them instead.

How can I prepare for the preliminary PI interview?

You do not have to spend a significant amount of time preparing for this interview. The main purpose is to verify your English language skills and your motivation for this training. Bottom line: BE YOURSELF!

Can I apply again later if my application is rejected?

If your application is rejected, you should discuss the reasons for rejection with us to see if you can improve your chances in the future. You can apply again later if you meet the requirements.Can I choose the location for my new internship?You may suggest a location for your new traineeship, but PI will not guarantee a specific location. Remember, the focus should be on the quality of the hotel and the training you will receive, not the location.

Can I stay longer than 18 months in the United States through this program?

Through this type of visa program, you can stay only up to 18 months in the United States. Generally, you must return home within 30 days after your traineeship has ended. This is due to U.S. visa regulations.

Who decides how much my stipend will be?

Placement International will handle all stipend and benefit negotiations. You will not be able to participate in those negotiations. The minimum monthly stipend for the program is $1,500 USD. However, we always try to get you the highest stipend possible.

How can I prepare for the phone interview with the hotel?

You are required to contact us prior to the interview so we can help you get ready for it. You should be prepared to discuss your background, including education and experience, professional goals and expectations for the program. We will be happy to answer any questions you might have prior to the interview. You should also take a look at the property's website to familiarize yourself with the hotel. Having knowledge of the property will show your eagerness to be a part of their team.The length of this interview can vary from a few minutes up to an hour, and can lead to additional phone interviews before the host hotel makes a decision. Placement International representatives are not present during this phone call, but will contact the prospective hotel after the call to evaluate their reaction to the interview. The most important thing to remember is to rely not just on your education, but on your personality. Remember, the key word in this industry is "Hospitality".

Can I change host hotels in the middle of the program?

In most cases you are not allowed to leave your host hotel in the middle of your program, or your J-1 visa status will expire and you will be required go home.If your training is terminated for any reason you may be required to return to your home country within 30 days. You are not allowed to look for another position within the United States under these conditions. Under rare circumstances that are clearly beyond your control, such as the host hotel going out of business or reducing its staff due to a bad economic situation, we and the sponsoring organization will evaluate the situation separately. We will help file for the necessary approvals from the sponsoring organization and make appropriate arrangements for you to find another host hotel if approval is granted.

Does the program guarantee that my J-1 visa application will be approved?

No. We do not guarantee that your J-1 visa will be approved. Each U.S. Embassy and Consulate makes these decisions independently. However, if you have followed all the program guidelines and your DS-2019 form has been approved, you have a great chance of getting your J-1 visa approved as well. If, for some reason, the staff at the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate asks you to come in for an interview during your J-1 visa application process, please contact for advice prior to the interview.

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