This guide is for participants applying from Australia or New Zealand only. If you are applying from another country, check the visa section of your Camp Leaders profile for instructions specific to your location.
What is the visa process for AU and NZ participants?
To participate in the BridgeUSA program, you need to apply for a J-1 Cultural Exchange visa. The process has several steps that must be completed in order. Read through all the steps before you begin so you understand the full process and avoid delays.
Step 1: Complete your DS-160 visa application form
The DS-160 is the application form required for all US non-immigrant visas. Follow the step-by-step instructions in the visa section of your Camp Leaders profile to complete this form.
Important details for AU and NZ participants:
Enter all dates in the American format (MM/DD/YYYY)
Save your DS-160 application ID (a letter and number sequence starting with "AA"). You will need it to book your visa appointment
If your DS-160 application expires (they expire after 30 days), you will need to start a new one
The DS-160 requires a US passport-sized photo (2 x 2 inches). If you are unable to upload one during the application, you can bring printed photos to your appointment
Step 2: Book your visa appointment
Using your DS-160 application ID, book your visa appointment at the US Consulate in Auckland. Follow the step-by-step instructions in the visa section of your Camp Leaders profile for the booking process.
Step 3: Upload your appointment confirmation
Upload your visa appointment confirmation to the documents section of your Camp Leaders profile as soon as you book it.
Important:
Make sure your home address in your profile is correct, as this is the address Camp Leaders will use to send your paperwork
Camp Leaders needs at least 10 days notice before the date of your appointment to process and ship your DS-2019 paperwork to you in time
Do not book transport or accommodation for your appointment until it has been verified on your profile
Camp Leaders cannot ship your visa paperwork to you unless they have received your police check certificate and you have paid your program fees in full
Step 4: Prepare for your visa appointment
Your SEVIS fee is paid as part of your Camp Leaders program fee, so you do not need to pay it separately. Your SEVIS receipt will be available before your appointment. Make sure to save it and bring it with you.
Gather all the documents you will need for your appointment. The visa section of your Camp Leaders profile has a full checklist, but the key items include:
Your current, valid passport
Your DS-160 confirmation page
Your DS-2019 form (verify all details match your passport information exactly, then sign and date it)
Your SEVIS receipt
Your appointment confirmation
A US passport-sized photo (2 x 2 inches)
Proof of your camp placement
Camp address and contact information
Proof of intent to return home (education enrollment, employment confirmation, or other evidence of ties to your home country)
Step 5: Attend your visa appointment
Arrive early and have all your documents from the checklist ready.
The consular officer will ask you about your placement (where you are going, which state, your role at camp), your plans in the US, how you plan to fund your trip, and your intentions to return home after the program.
Answer clearly and honestly. Know the name and location of your camp, your role, and your visa sponsor. There is no need to volunteer extra information unless asked.
If your visa is approved, the consulate may need to keep your passport for processing. This is normal. If your visa is refused, contact Camp Leaders immediately.
Step 6: Confirm when you receive your passport back
Once you receive your passport back from the Consulate (with your DS-2019 and J-1 visa inside), update the visa section of your Camp Leaders profile with the date you received it. This is an important step as it confirms your visa process is complete.
What about flights as an AU or NZ participant?
Flights are not included in the program for Australian and New Zealand participants. You are responsible for booking your own flights. In some countries, Camp Leaders may be able to help with booking. Contact the team for details.
Important flight considerations:
Camp Leaders recommends waiting until after your visa has been approved before booking flights, as your visa is not guaranteed
You must arrive on or before your camp contract start date. If your flight is booked for after this date, Camp Leaders will need to apply for new visa paperwork and an admin fee may apply
Contact Camp Leaders if you need advice on flight timing or airports