Ineligible organizations and training plans

Certain types of organizations are not permitted to host J-1 visa interns. These include:

    • Certain limited service/economy hotel properties (below 3-diamond rating)
    • Most home offices
    • Fast food franchises
    • Spas
    • Gyms
    • Direct sales or direct marketing companies
    • Companies working remotely

Additionally, CIEE cannot sponsor Interns in the following occupations:

  • Positions involving direct contact with minors such as au pair or babysitting
  • Maids or any other domestic work such as housekeeping
  • Medical interns or interns involved in hands-on therapy, counseling, administering treatment or making diagnoses of medical, psychiatric or psychological conditions
  • Pharmacy positions directly related to dispensing medication to patients
  • Veterinary interns involved in hands-on care of animals
  • Teachers or educational instructors
  • Temporary or staffing agency employees
  • Pilots or crew members on ships or airplanes

Some observation training programs in the sectors listed above can be accepted. Please consult us.

Please note that research scholars require a J-1 visa, category Research Scholar. However, certain research training programs can be accepted within the Intern category, namely if they entail teamwork, constant supervision and a true element of training.

Humanitarian missions or internships at NGO’s such as the United Nations can, under certain circumstances, be undertaken with a tourism visa or ESTA. Contact us or your employer for further information.

For a detailed list of acceptable occupations please consult CIEE’s industry-specific guidelines.

The above list is not exhaustive. We will only be able to confirm your employer’s eligibility once the training plan has been completed.

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