Lori Meadows
Canadian students seeking internships in the US face a competitive market and complex visa requirements. While it is possible for Canadians to intern in the US, the process can be challenging. From visa applications to sponsorship requirements, there are many factors to consider. Some sources suggest that a J1 visa is the best option for Canadian interns, while others recommend a TN visa, which is available to Canadians and can be obtained at the border. To increase their chances of success, students are advised to leverage alumni networks, seek support from their university's career office, and target companies with established international internship programs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Visa required | J1 Visa, TN Visa |
| Visa sponsor | Cultural Vistas, Global Internships |
| Visa application time | 2-4 weeks |
| Supporting documents | Proof of student status, certificate of graduation |
| Visa cost | Not mentioned |
| Work authorization | Required |
| University support | Available |
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What You'll Learn
Visa requirements for Canadian students
Canadian citizens do not usually require entry visas to enter the United States. However, there are some exceptions. For instance, Canadian students must have a student visa (F or M visa) to travel to the US to study. They may not study after entering on a visitor (B) visa, unless they are eligible for and have obtained a change of status from USCIS, or through the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
Canadian students who are planning to work for a US company as interns, whether paid or unpaid, will likely be asked to apply for a J1 visa. The application process is straightforward and can be done online. The required documents include proof of student status from your university or a copy of your certificate if you have already graduated. The processing time for the application and supporting documents may vary, but it usually takes around 2–4 weeks to get the DS 2019 form for the J1 visa.
Canadian students who are citizens may enter the US in F-1 or J-1 student status without a visa. However, they must present the following documents upon entry to obtain this status:
- A valid Form I-20 (for F-1 status) or DS-2019 (for J-1 status)
- Proof of payment of the I-901 SEVIS Fee
- Proof of Canadian citizenship (such as a Canadian passport)
A border inspector will review the documents and determine eligibility to enter the US as an F-1 or J-1 student. The inspector will then stamp the passport and issue a paper version of the I94 card or create an I-94 record, which can be retrieved via the US Customs and Border Protection website.
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Work authorisation
Canadian students seeking internships in the US will need to obtain work authorisation, which typically involves securing the necessary visas and permissions. While Canadian citizens can usually enter the US without a visa, they are generally restricted from working without the appropriate authorisation.
One common visa option for Canadian students seeking internships in the US is the J1 visa, specifically designed for exchange visitors participating in work-and-study-based exchange visitor programs. The J1 visa requires sponsorship, and there are organisations that specialise in sponsoring Canadian interns in the US, such as Cultural Vistas and Intrax Global Internships. These sponsors help interns navigate the bureaucracy and ensure they meet the requirements for the J1 visa. The process can take around 2-4 weeks once all supporting documents are submitted, and sponsors will typically require proof of student status or a copy of your university certificate if you have already graduated.
Another possible visa option for Canadian citizens seeking internships in the US is the TN visa, which is available under NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement). However, the TN visa typically requires applicants to have a completed degree, so it may not be suitable for students who are still pursuing their studies.
It is important to note that work authorisation requirements may vary depending on the specific internship and the sponsoring organisation. Canadian students seeking internships in the US should carefully review the requirements and eligibility criteria for their desired internships and consult with their university's career office or international student services for guidance on obtaining the necessary work authorisation.
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University support
Canadian students seeking internships in the US can benefit from several university support systems. Firstly, universities themselves can be a valuable resource. Career offices at universities often have extensive experience placing students in US internships and can provide guidance on resumes, cover letters, and mock interviews. Alumni networks can also be leveraged through platforms like LinkedIn, allowing students to connect with alumni working in the US and gain insights or opportunities. Additionally, some universities collaborate with organisations like Cultural Vistas, the official partner for Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning Canada (CEWIL Canada), to offer streamlined processes and discounted rates for internships in the US.
Furthermore, universities can assist students in navigating the cultural and logistical aspects of interning in the US. This includes helping students understand the structure of the work-integrated learning (WIL) system in the US, which differs from that of Canada. Universities can also offer support in securing the necessary work permits and ensuring compliance with Citizenship and Immigration Canada policies.
While some universities have well-established international internship programs, others may not. However, students should not be discouraged, as many employers are open to hiring international interns even if it was not their initial intention. University support services can provide valuable advice on applying for internships and navigating the complexities of interning in a foreign country, increasing students' chances of success in securing opportunities in the US.
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Application process
Canadian students seeking internships in the US will need to obtain a visa. The type of visa required is typically the J1 visa, which is specifically for interns. The application process for a J1 visa is straightforward and can be completed online. However, it's important to start the process early, ideally 2-3 months before the intended internship start date. Here is a step-by-step guide to the application process:
Step 1: Find an Internship Opportunity
Start by searching for internship opportunities in the US. You can use job boards, company websites, or networking to find potential internships. It is worth noting that some companies may be more willing to sponsor visas than others, so look for well-established international internship programs or large companies.
Step 2: Apply for the Internship
Once you have found an internship that matches your skills and interests, submit your application. Ensure your resume and cover letter are tailored to the role and highlight any relevant experience or skills. Be prepared for potential interviews and remember that the competition may be high, so persistence is key.
Step 3: Secure Visa Sponsorship
If your internship is confirmed, the next step is to apply for J1 Visa Sponsorship. This can be done through organisations like Cultural Vistas (CV), which is a partner for Work-Integrated Learning Canada (CEWIL Canada). They will guide you through the process and ensure you meet the necessary requirements.
Step 4: Gather Required Documents
You will need to provide various documents to support your visa application. This includes proof of student status or a copy of your university degree certificate. A passport, SIN card, and citizenship card are also essential. Ensure you have all the required documents before proceeding.
Step 5: Submit Visa Application
Submit your J1 visa application online. The processing time may vary, but it typically takes around 2-4 weeks to receive the DS 2019 form, which is required for the J1 visa. During this time, be responsive to any requests for additional information or clarification.
Step 6: Prepare for Your Internship
Once your visa is approved, you can start preparing for your internship in the US. This includes finding accommodation, sorting out travel arrangements, and familiarising yourself with the cultural and work differences you may encounter.
It is important to remember that visa regulations can change, and there may be additional requirements or steps involved. Always refer to official government sources for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, some internships may require specific qualifications or additional steps in the application process, so be sure to review the requirements for your chosen opportunity carefully.
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Sponsorship
Sponsors act as gatekeepers, ensuring that prospective interns are well-prepared for their programs in the US. They are government-approved entities that screen applicants, provide guidance, and issue the essential DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange. This certificate is a prerequisite for obtaining the J-1 Visa, which allows Canadian students to legally undertake internships in the US.
Cultural Vistas (CV) is one of the largest sponsors of Canadian interns in the US. They offer streamlined processes and discounted rates for students from CEWIL (Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning Canada) member schools. CV works closely with Canadian universities and their advisors, providing continuous support before, during, and after the internship program. Their two-phased process includes an initial month for onboarding and application submission, followed by a month for application review and the issuance of necessary documents.
Intrax Global Internships is another prominent sponsor, known for simplifying the confusing visa process and prioritizing global connections. They offer a comprehensive guide to help Canadian students navigate the intricacies of securing a J-1 Visa. Additionally, they emphasize the cultural and professional benefits of interning in the US, including gaining a wider network and a deeper understanding of US culture and work ethics.
When seeking internships in the US, Canadian students are advised to leverage alumni networks, especially on platforms like LinkedIn. Connecting with alumni working in the US can provide valuable insights and potential opportunities. University career offices are also excellent resources, offering support in placement, resume building, and interview preparation.
While some companies may be reluctant to sponsor international interns, it's worth noting that many big tech firms and popular startups are often open to sponsoring Canadians. It is beneficial to target such companies and research which organizations have a history of sponsoring Canadian interns.
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Frequently asked questions
Canadian students need a J1 visa to intern in the US.
The process of getting a J1 visa is quite simple. Everything can be done online and it is not very time-consuming. You will need to get in touch with a visa sponsor, who will ensure that you and your host business meet a few requirements. The application process and supporting documents may vary from one sponsor to another, but it usually takes around 2-4 weeks to get the DS 2019 form for the J1 visa.
You will need to provide proof of student status from your university or a copy of your certificate if you have already graduated.
It is recommended to use your university's alumni network on LinkedIn to connect with alumni working in the US. Your university's career office can also provide support and help with resumes, cover letters, and mock interviews. Additionally, consider applying for internships at large companies or startups that are more likely to sponsor Canadians, such as FAANG companies.
