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. Visa and paperwork
    3. Visa sponsor check-ins

    Visa sponsor check-ins

    What visa sponsor check-ins are, when they happen, and how to complete your preparation course before departure.

    Last updated March 25, 2026

    What are monthly check-ins?

    Every 30 days during your time in the US, you are required to fill out a short online questionnaire. This is a requirement of the US Department of State and is initiated by your visa sponsor to check on your health, safety, and welfare while on your camp program and to hear highlights of your experience. You will receive further information on this directly from your visa sponsor via email.

    If you need more details, log in to your Camp Leaders profile and head to the Visa section.

    Why do I need to reply to sponsor emails?

    Responding to your visa sponsor's emails and completing the questionnaire is a requirement of your J-1 program. Your sponsor's priority is your health, safety, and welfare while you are at camp. These check-ins are not optional.

    What happens if I do not respond?

    If you do not reply to sponsor emails or complete the required surveys, your time in the US may be at risk. Take a few minutes to complete them when they arrive.

    Was this article helpful?

    PreviousEmbassy interviewsNextUK visa guide

    Related articles

    The J-1 visa

    A clear guide to the J-1 visa for summer camp, including what it allows, how long it lasts, and key rules to follow.

    Your visa sponsor

    What a visa sponsor does, who the Camp Leaders sponsors are, and how they support you during your time in the US.

    Your DS-2019

    What the DS-2019 form is, why it matters, and how to get yours issued through your Camp Leaders visa sponsor.

    SEVIS

    What SEVIS is, how it works, and what you need to know about the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System.

    Embassy interviews

    How to prepare for your US embassy or consulate visa interview, what to bring, and what to expect on the day.

    On this page

    What are monthly check-ins?Why do I need to reply to sponsor emails?What happens if I do not respond?