Returners

Welcoming you back to camp.

Return to the States, earn more, and come back to another epic summer camp experience.

A counselor wearing a Camp Leaders t shirt throwing a golf ball in the air

As a returner, you'll earn more.

When you come to summer camp as a returner, you'll receive the same amazing support as a first timer would. This time round, you'll be able to negotiate your spending money (often referred to as pocket money) with camp.

So let us take you home this summer, and earn more than you have at camp before.

Additional costs.

There are some third party fees that are part of going to camp. These are paid directly to organisations like the US government and background check agencies as part of the J1 Visa requirements.

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Criminal Background Check - £90

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U.S. Visa Application (MRV) Fee - $185 USD (Paid to U.S. Embassy)

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Flights to the U.S. - Price varies

Application Process

Apply online.

As you’ve been with us to camp before, simply log in & all your information will carry over.

Certain areas of your application will only open as you progress through the stages, so keep up to date where you can.

Pay your deposit.

You'll know the next steps, but your $100USD deposit is key to getting the ball rolling.

We only have limited forms available for returners, so it's important to pay your deposit early to secure one.

Sign your camp contract

Let your Camp Directors know ASAP that you plan to head back to camp so they can send you your camp contract.

We need your camp contract and the confirmation from camp in the Camp Leaders platform before we can start your visa paperwork.

Get your visa.

We’ll help to get your visa paperwork sorted and will order that all important DS-2019.

Although you’re returning, you’ll still need to head to the embassy as they like to issue paperwork in person.

Book your flight.

This time around, you know where you're heading - so you’ll have access to the best flight deals. Wahoo!

Please note - the embassy recommends that you do not book your flight until you've had your visa approved.

A Camp Leaders participant wearing Camp Leaders merchandise in an American city

Frequently asked questions

Can I go with Camp Leaders if I used a different agency before?

Anyone who has been a camp counselor before in one occasion is eligible. If you went to camp once with another agency, you can still return with Camp Leaders. Please note, we only accept 3+ year returners who have previously travelled with Camp Leaders.

What should I expect returning to summer camp?

Higher wages! As your camp will not be paying an administration/placement fee to Camp Leaders, you are able to negotiate your pocket money directly with camp. You should be paid the same as any other American staff member. Boom!

Why is the program fee for 3+ Returners different?

The US Department of State limits the number of camp counselors who can repeat the programs multiple times to ensure that as many different individuals as possible are able to participate in the in Camp Counselor program. Sponsors are required by the visa regulations (not Camp Leaders or sponsor policy) to limit their third year or more camp counselors to not more than 10% of the total number of participants that the sponsor placed in the immediately preceding year.

How difficult is the returner application?

As you already have your job we need less information from you - it's super quick, easy and hassle free.

Do I have to do all the paperwork for my Visa?

No, we will provide all of the required paperwork. Returners must still attend an appointment at the US Embassy to issue their visas.

Visit our help center