Internships Abroad: Can Canadian Students Work In The Us?

Canadian students seeking internships in the US face a challenging task, with many reporting rejections and a confusing array of requirements. However, it is not impossible, and there are estimated to be over 4 million internships available for students in the US annually. The J-1 visa is a popular option for Canadian interns, allowing students to gain exposure to US culture and business practices. The process can be lengthy, with many steps, and a lot of paperwork, but there are organisations such as Cultural Vistas and Global Internships that can help students navigate the process.

J-1 Visa requirements

Canadian students seeking internships in the US will likely need to apply for a J1 visa. The J-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa for educational and cultural exchange programs designated by the US Department of State. The process of applying for a J1 visa is straightforward and can be done online. However, there are several requirements that must be met.

Firstly, applicants must be sponsored by an exchange program approved by the US Department of State. These programs are designed to promote the exchange of persons, knowledge, and skills in the fields of education, arts, and science. The program sponsor will ensure that both the applicant and the host business meet certain requirements before issuing the necessary documents. These documents include the DS-2019 form, which certifies eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status. The DS-2019 form will be provided by the sponsoring agency and outlines program details, including dates and financial information. Additionally, J-1 visa applicants participating in Trainee and Intern categories will need the DS-7002 form, which outlines the Training/Internship Placement Plan.

Another requirement for J-1 visa applicants is to have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for at least six months after the intended period of stay in the United States, unless specific country agreements allow otherwise. Applicants should also be prepared to undergo a visa interview and provide proof of their student status or a copy of their graduation certificate. Additionally, J-1 visa applicants must be at least 18 years old and enrolled in a recognised educational institution, such as a university or college.

It is important to note that J-1 visa holders are typically required to return to their home country after completing their program and reside there for at least two years before being allowed to re-enter the US. However, in cases of emergency or special circumstances, this requirement may be waived. Additionally, J-1 visa holders are only authorised to work under the terms of their exchange program, and any employment must be approved by the sponsoring agency.

Eligibility criteria for Foreign National Student Internships

Foreign national students, including Canadians, can intern in the US, but they must meet certain eligibility criteria. Here are the key requirements for foreign national student internships in the US:

• Student Status: Foreign national students must be enrolled in a foreign college or university, or have graduated within the past 12 months. They must also be at least 18 years old and have graduated from high school or an equivalent secondary school program.
• Visa Requirements: Most foreign nationals will need a J-1 visa to intern in the US. The J-1 visa has two categories: "Intern" and "Trainee." The Intern category is for current students or recent graduates who wish to intern in their field of study. The Trainee category is for professionals with a degree and at least one year of relevant work experience or individuals with five years of relevant work experience in their chosen field. The J-1 visa process can be challenging, and applicants must demonstrate English proficiency and their intent to return to their home country after the internship.
• Work Permit and Study Permit: Foreign students must possess a work permit and a study permit in accordance with the Citizenship and Immigration Canada policy.
• Academic Standing: Students must be in good academic standing at their educational institution and provide a certified transcript.
• Medical Clearance: Students must pass a medical exam and obtain a U.S. non-sensitive security clearance.
• Background Investigation: Students may be subject to a background investigation, and some may need to undergo random drug testing. The process can be longer for those with extensive travel, education, residence, or employment outside the US, dual citizenship, foreign contacts, or foreign-born spouses.
• Host Company Sponsorship: Some companies in the US sponsor internships for foreign nationals, particularly in the tech and startup sectors. It is essential to research and apply to companies that are willing to sponsor internships.

It is important to note that eligibility criteria may vary depending on the specific internship program and the requirements of the host company or organization. Students should carefully review the requirements of their intended internship program and ensure they meet all the necessary criteria before applying.

Tips for Canadian students

If you're a Canadian student looking to intern in the US, there are a few things you should keep in mind to increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process:

Use your alumni network

Take advantage of your university's alumni network to find potential internship opportunities in the US. Search for alumni from your school on LinkedIn and filter them by location. Reach out to alumni working in the US and ask them about potential internship opportunities or insights they can provide. They may be able to connect you with the right people or organisations. Your university's career office is also a valuable resource for support and guidance in finding internships abroad.

Prepare your documents

Ensure that you have all the necessary documents required for your internship application and visa process. This includes maintaining good academic standing and providing certified transcripts, written permission from your educational institution, and passing a medical exam and security clearance. Additionally, research the specific requirements for the J-1 visa, which is commonly needed for internships in the US. The J-1 visa is for cultural exchange visitors and allows students to gain hands-on experience in US business practices.

Start the process early

Give yourself enough time by starting the internship search and application process early. It is recommended to begin at least 2-3 months in advance of your intended start date. This will allow you to navigate any bureaucratic challenges and gather all the necessary documents, reducing the risk of delays.

Look for well-established programs

While there are an estimated 4 million internships available in the US each year, not all companies have well-established international internship programs. Consider applying to major companies or organisations with established international internship programs, as they may have more experience navigating the process and sponsoring international interns.

Consider working with a sponsor

Sponsors are government-approved entities that can guide and support you through the Exchange Visitor Program. They screen prospective exchange visitors and assist with the application process. Cultural Vistas, for example, is one of the largest sponsors for Canadian interns in the US and offers streamlined processes and discounted rates for students from certain schools. Working with a sponsor can make the process easier and increase your chances of securing an internship in the US.

Companies that sponsor Canadian interns

Canadian students seeking internships in the US will most likely need a J-1 visa. This is a specific type of visa for cultural exchange visitors, allowing students to gain exposure to US culture and hands-on experience in their field of interest. The J-1 visa is valid for up to 12 months.

The process of obtaining a J-1 visa can be complex and time-consuming, and it often requires a sponsor. A sponsor is a government-approved entity that screens prospective exchange visitors and assists with the application process. They will ensure that both the intern and the host company meet certain requirements before issuing the necessary documents. The cost of a J-1 visa for Canadian citizens can range from \$1,200 to \$2,700 USD.

One organisation that offers J-1 visa sponsorship is Cultural Vistas. They work with international students, professionals, and host companies to facilitate cultural exchange. They provide a range of services, including application support, orientation, and ongoing support throughout the program. Each year, nearly 600 US companies and organisations use Cultural Vistas to sponsor interns.

Another option for Canadian interns is to apply to large companies that have a history of sponsoring Canadians. For example, a user on Reddit suggested applying to "big tech and popular startups" and recommended looking at companies that have previously hosted interns from Waterloo University. They specifically mentioned that FAANG companies (Facebook, Apple, Amazon, Netflix, and Google) are preferred options. Shopify was also mentioned as a good company to target to gain experience with a "big name".

Application process

Canadian students seeking internships in the US must navigate a complex process involving visas, permits, and academic requirements. Here is a detailed guide on the application process for Canadian students aspiring to intern in the United States.

Step 1: Research Opportunities and Requirements

Before initiating the application process, Canadian students should thoroughly research available internship opportunities in the US. They should also familiarize themselves with the requirements and eligibility criteria, which may vary depending on the specific internship program and the host organization.

Step 2: Prepare Necessary Documents

Canadian students must assemble various documents to support their internship applications. These typically include academic transcripts, proof of student status or graduation, and written permission from their educational institution. Additionally, students may need to undergo a medical exam and obtain a U.S. non-sensitive security clearance.

Step 3: Identify a Visa Sponsor

Obtaining a visa is a crucial step for Canadian students seeking internships in the US. Most students will require a J-1 visa, which is specifically designed for cultural exchange visitors, including interns. To obtain this visa, students must identify a government-approved visa sponsor, such as Cultural Vistas, who will guide them through the application process.

Step 4: Apply for the J-1 Visa

The J-1 visa application process can be completed online and typically involves submitting various documents, including the DS-2019 form (Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitors). Students may also need to attend an interview at a U.S. consulate and provide additional documentation as requested. Processing times vary but generally take a few weeks.

Step 5: Finalize Travel Preparations

Once the J-1 visa is approved, Canadian students can begin finalizing their travel arrangements. This includes booking accommodations, notifying the host organization of their arrival, and making any other necessary preparations for their stay in the US.

Step 6: Comply with Internship Requirements

Upon arrival in the US, Canadian interns must comply with the terms and conditions of their internship program. This may include specific duties and responsibilities, as well as any additional requirements stipulated by the host organization or the terms of their visa.

It is important to note that the application process may vary slightly depending on the specific internship program, the host organization, and the individual circumstances of the student. Canadian students are advised to seek guidance from their academic institutions and visa sponsors to ensure a smooth application process.

Frequently asked questions