Camp Leaders Help Center
    Camp Leaders Help Center
    Home
    Getting started
    About Camp LeadersCamp types and rolesCamp locationsEligibility and requirementsCost and what's includedKey dates and deadlinesReturning participants
    Applying
    Application processProfile and skillsDocuments and referencesCamp Leaders interviewBackground checksCompleting your application
    Getting placed
    How placement worksConnecting with campsCamp interviewsOn reviewPlacement offersWaiting for placement
    Visa and paperwork
    The J-1 visaYour visa sponsorYour DS-2019SEVISEmbassy interviewsVisa sponsor check-insUK visa guideAU & NZ visa guide
    Preparing for camp
    Your insuranceDocuments to packFlights and travelLuggage and packingMoney, phones and essentialsAt the airportEntering the USGetting to camp
    Life at camp
    Arriving at campDaily lifeCultural exchangePay and moneySocial SecurityHealth and wellbeingUsing your insuranceRules and US lawProblems at campLeaving camp early
    After camp
    Travel periodExtending your stayRe-entering the USTaxReturning homeReturning to camp
    Account and payments
    Your accountPayments
    Contact and emergencies
    Contact usEmergencies
    Back to site
    1. Home
    2. After camp
    3. Extending your stay

    Extending your stay

    How camp extensions work, what to consider, and how to arrange extra time at your camp after your contract ends.

    Last updated March 25, 2026

    Can I stay longer at camp?

    If your camp offers to extend your employment, this can be a great opportunity to see camp from a different perspective and earn more money. Extensions are not guaranteed, but many camps have positions available after the main season ends.

    What do I need to arrange if camp extends my contract?

    If you are offered an extension, 3 things need to happen:

    1. You need a new camp contract reflecting the extended dates

    2. You need to extend your insurance to cover the additional time

    3. Your DS-2019 needs an updated end date

    Your camp will also need to contact the Camp Leaders US office to coordinate the changes.

    Do I need a new DS-2019?

    Yes. If your employment at camp is extended beyond the dates on your original DS-2019, you will need an updated form. Your camp and Camp Leaders will work together to arrange this. Do not continue working past your DS-2019 end date without an updated form.

    Was this article helpful?

    PreviousTravel periodNextRe-entering the US

    Related articles

    Travel period

    Your 30-day travel period after camp, including insurance, visa rules, and tips for exploring America.

    Re-entering the US

    Can you leave the US and re-enter during your travel period? Visa rules for trips to Canada, Mexico, and beyond.

    Tax

    Your US tax obligations as a J-1 visa holder, how to file your return, and recommended tax services.

    Returning home

    Everything you need to do before heading home after camp, from closing your bank account to packing up.

    Returning to camp

    How to come back to camp next summer, the returner application process, and tips for securing your spot.

    On this page

    Can I stay longer at camp?What do I need to arrange if camp extends my contract?Do I need a new DS-2019?