United States

Irish-based students and graduates looking to study or work in the United States can avail of the Exchange Visitor (J) non-immigrant visa scheme. There are two major categories: the J1 Student Work and Travel Programme and the J1 Graduate / Intern (Irish Work and Travel) Programmes.

NOTE: As of May 2025, we are aware of reports that the scheduling of new appointments for J1 applications has been paused, however it is our understanding that this will not affect applicants with existing interview appointments. Please visit the BridgeUSA website for more information.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the J1 Student Work and Travel Programme, you must:

Be at least 18 and under 28 on the date of application
Be enrolled full-time and pursuing studies at an Irish or United Kingdom (Northern Ireland) accredited post-secondary institution
Have completed at least one semester (or equivalent) of study

To be eligible for the J1 Graduate / Intern Programmes, you must:

Be at least 18
Intern in a field related to your studies or academic background (area of study listed on your degree)
Hold an Irish passport (J1 intern applicants from Northern Ireland can use a British passport)
Be a full-time university student or recent graduate of a university in the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland

Duration

J1 Student Work and Travel Programme: up to 4 months
J1 Graduate / Intern Programmes: 12 months (no possibility of renewal)

Application Process

Applications for both programmes involve securing sponsorship and obtaining the visa from the U.S. Embassy in Dublin or U.S. Consulate in Belfast. A list of approved sponsors can be found on the official government BridgeUSA website. You should budget for sponsorship fees (variable) and application/appointment fees payable to the American embassy or consulate. Consult the additional resources listed below for more information about applying for a J1.