What if I need to leave and re-enter the US during my camp program?
If you need to leave the US and return while your camp program is still running, the process is different from re-entering after camp ends. See [Entering the US](/preparing-for-camp/entering-the-us) in the Preparing for Camp section for details on what you need to arrange with your visa sponsor before you travel.
What happens if my J-1 has expired?
Your J-1 visa expires on the last day of your camp contract. After that date, you are in the US on a grace period, not on an active visa. You cannot use your J-1 to re-enter the US after leaving. If you leave the country during your grace period, you will need ESTA, a visitor visa, or another valid entry authorization to get back in.
Can I visit Mexico, Canada, or the Caribbean?
Yes, but there are important visa considerations. After camp, your J-1 visa will have expired. If you leave the US and want to re-enter, you will need a separate travel authorization.
Entry rules vary based on your passport, citizenship, and birth country. It is your responsibility to check your eligibility to return to the US.
What is ESTA and how do I apply?
ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) allows citizens of eligible countries to enter the US for short visits without a full visa. Processing time is up to 72 hours, and there is a fee.
ESTA applications can be rejected, so do not leave the US until your ESTA is approved. There is no guarantee of approval and processing can take up to 72 hours.
Apply only through the official US government ESTA website.
What is a Canadian ETA?
If you are traveling to Canada by plane, you may need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which costs around 7 Canadian dollars. Check the Canadian government website for eligibility based on your nationality.
What if I need a visitor visa to re-enter the US?
If you are not eligible for ESTA, you may need a B1/B2 visitor visa to re-enter the US. This typically needs to be applied for in your home country at least a month before you travel to the US on the Camp Leaders program. Plan ahead if this applies to you.