Eligiblity

Make sure you’re camp eligible.

There’s some basic requirements you need to meet to be eligible for the J1 visa program in USA. Here's what they are.
A camp counselor looking over campers taking part in a waterfront activity
A male camp counselor on the high ropes
A man playing basketball

You're eligible if:

You’re at least 18 years old by June 1st
You're available to fly out between May 1st and June 15th
You're available to spend minimum 9 weeks at camp from the date you depart
You can speak English fluently
You have a clean criminal background and have great ties to home country
You have a clean criminal background
You have a clean criminal background

You're eligible if:

You’re at least 18 years old by June 1st
You're available to fly out between May 1st and June 20th
You're available to spend 9 weeks at camp from the date you depart
You can speak English fluently
You have a clean criminal background
Be part of a global community of people at camp.

Qualifications not required.

Camps are looking for international staff who are enthusiastic, open, and willing to support their young campers during a fun summer.

Qualifications come second, but may open up opportunities for different roles at camp, such as being an activity leader. If you’ve got a qualification in a specific sport, creative skill, childcare, or teaching, you'll get hired at a camp even quicker.

FAQs

Is there an age limit for summer camp?

There is no upper age limit to work at camp as a counselor. Clearly, the older you are, the more responsibility is laid on you by the camps. For visa purposes you must be fluent in English, have GREAT ties to home country and show affinity working with kids. The only age requirement is that you must be 18 by June 1st.

What dates do I need to be available?

Camps typically start between May 1st and June 15th, and finish 9 weeks after the start date. If you’re available for the summer months, then you can go to camp.

Do I need to have a police check to go to summer camp?

Yes, everyone needs a valid police check. The police check must be in date from the September of the year you are applying. As you are working with children this is essential.

Do I need to have experience working with children?

No, as long as your willing to work with children. Any experience will be a bonus, no matter how small. If you don't have experience with children, then why not volunteer before you go? Even if it’s just looking after younger family members, it all counts.

Do I have to be a student to apply?

No, you don't have to be a student to be a camp counselor. But, being a student is a great help when getting your visa as this is proof of ties to home country.

Think your eligible? Then check what role is right for you.

If you're eligible for camp then you might want to see what roles you can take on before applying.

From taking a leadership role as a general counselor, to teaching your most loved hobby; there's a role for you at camp this summer.

Things to remember.

  • You'll be working in an environment with children aged between 6-16
  • Parents have trusted camps with the wellbeing of their children
  • Camp is fun, but it's hard work too
  • You'll have time off to explore and recharge during your time at camp (along with 30 free days to travel after camp)
  • You'll be away from home for at least 9 weeks

Ready for camp?