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    5. Your visa sponsor

    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.

    Last updated April 2, 2026

    What is a visa sponsor?

    A visa sponsor is the organization designated by the US Department of State to support and take responsibility for you during your time in America. Your sponsor oversees your J-1 visa program and is your main point of contact for visa-related matters while you are in the US.

    It is mandatory to know who your visa sponsor is. You may be asked about your sponsor at any point during your program, including when entering the US.

    What is the difference between Camp Leaders and my visa sponsor?

    Camp Leaders is your agency. We match you with a camp, help you through the application process, and provide support throughout your journey.

    Your visa sponsor is the organization responsible for your J-1 visa and your legal status in the US. They are responsible for your health, safety, and welfare while you are at camp and in the country.

    Both Camp Leaders and your visa sponsor are here to support you, but they have different roles.

    Who is my visa sponsor?

    Your visa sponsor is listed on your DS-2019, on your visa, and in the visa section of your Camp Leaders profile. Always check your profile for your individual sponsor information, as different participants may have different sponsors.

    What is CHI?

    Cultural Homestay International (CHI) is the primary visa sponsor for the Camp Leaders program. CHI staff are based in the US and are available to support you throughout the summer.

    CHI contact information:

    • 255 West End Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901

    • Phone: 1-800-432-4643

    What if my sponsor is not CHI?

    A small number of Camp Leaders participants may have a different visa sponsor, such as CIEE, CENET, or Greenheart. If your sponsor is not CHI, follow the instructions provided by your specific sponsor for insurance, check-ins, and any other visa-related requirements.

    Your visa section in the Camp Leaders profile will confirm your sponsor and provide their contact details.

    Camp Leaders visa sponsor partners

    • Cultural Homestay International (CHI) - 255 West End Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901 - Phone: 1-800-432-4643

    • CIEE - check your Camp Leaders profile for contact details

    • Cultural Exchange Network (CENET) - 338 Broadway St., Ste. 620, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 - Phone: 1-866-513-3638

    • Greenheart - check your Camp Leaders profile for contact details

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    On this page

    What is a visa sponsor?What is the difference between Camp Leaders and my visa sponsor?Who is my visa sponsor?What is CHI?What if my sponsor is not CHI?Camp Leaders visa sponsor partners