The United States is now open. PIC Management officially launches its USA internship program — 12-month J-1 visa placements in hotels, restaurants and resorts across multiple American destinations. Applications are open now.
📋 Program at a glance: Up to 12 months · Stipend from $2,000/month · 6 position types · Florida, New York, California & more · J-1 visa fully supported by PIC Management
What Is the J-1 Visa Internship Program?
The J-1 visa is the only legal pathway for international students to complete a paid work placement in the United States. Issued by the US government as part of its Exchange Visitor Program, it allows you to intern at American hotels, restaurants and resorts for up to 12 months — earning a stipend from $2,000/month while building real international experience on your CV.
The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program is administered by the US Department of State and has supported international professional exchanges since 1961. The hospitality sector — hotels, restaurants and resorts — is consistently one of the most active categories for J-1 intern placements, offering structured, hands-on training in the world's most competitive hospitality market.
Key Facts About the J-1 Intern Visa
- Duration: up to 12 months
- Sectors: hospitality, culinary arts, food and beverage, front office, events
- Stipend: from $2,000/month (varies by position and experience)
- Requires a US sponsor organisation (DS-2019 form)
- Available to non-US citizens and non-permanent residents
Who Can Apply?
- Currently enrolled in a hospitality, culinary arts, tourism or business degree OR graduated within the past 12 months
- Between 18 and 32 years old
- From Europe or Latin America
- English level B1 or higher (B2 required for front office, food & beverage and events)
- Available for a minimum of 12 months
- Not a US citizen or permanent resident
Available Positions in the USA
| Position | Department | English Level |
|---|---|---|
| Front Office Intern | Reception / Guest Relations | Upper-intermediate (B2) |
| Food & Beverage Intern | Restaurant / Bar / Room Service | Upper-intermediate (B2) |
| Culinary Intern | Kitchen / Pastry | Intermediate (B1) |
| Housekeeping Intern | Rooms Division | Basic accepted |
| Events Intern | Banquets / Conference | Upper-intermediate (B2) |
| Sales & Marketing Intern | Hotel Sales | Upper-intermediate (B2) |
Destinations in the USA
- 📍 Florida — Miami Beach, Orlando, Tampa
- 📍 New York — Manhattan, Long Island
- 📍 California — Los Angeles, San Francisco, Napa Valley
- 📍 Nevada — Las Vegas
- 📍 Hawaii — Maui, Honolulu
How to Get Your USA Internship: Step by Step
- Apply to PIC Management — Submit your CV and a short motivation letter. We review your profile in 5–10 business days.
- Employer Interview — Interview directly with your US host employer via video call. Receive a formal offer if selected.
- DS-2019 Form — Your J-1 sponsor issues the Certificate of Eligibility required to apply for your visa.
- Visa Application — Attend your visa interview at the US Embassy. PIC Management guides you through every document. Typical processing: 4–8 weeks.
- Pre-Departure Preparation — We support you with accommodation, travel planning and a pre-departure briefing.
- Start Your Internship — Arrive in the USA ready to perform from day one. Supported by PIC Management throughout.
Stipend and Benefits
Most positions include a monthly stipend starting from $2,000, plus additional benefits such as accommodation, meals on duty, or transport allowance. Exact compensation is confirmed before you accept any offer. PIC Management only works with employers who provide financial compensation or equivalent benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the J-1 internship in the USA paid?
Yes. Most positions include a monthly stipend starting from $2,000, plus benefits such as accommodation or meals. Exact compensation is confirmed before you accept any offer.
Do I need perfect English for a USA internship?
No. A minimum intermediate level (B1) is sufficient for culinary and housekeeping roles. Front office, food & beverage, events and sales positions require an upper-intermediate level (B2). Your level is assessed during the application process.
How long does the process take from application to arrival?
Typically 3 to 5 months. The J-1 visa process is the main variable — we recommend applying at least 4 months before your intended start date to allow time for the US Embassy interview and DS-2019 issuance.
Can recent graduates apply for the J-1 internship?
Yes. The J-1 intern visa is available to individuals who graduated within the past 12 months from a qualifying programme in hospitality, culinary arts, tourism or business.
Can I choose my destination in the USA?
You can indicate your preferred region. Final placement depends on employer availability and your professional profile. We aim to match preferences where possible across Florida, New York, California, Nevada and Hawaii.
Is this programme available for all nationalities?
Yes. PIC Management works with students from across Europe, Latin America, Africa and Asia. Contact us to confirm eligibility requirements for your specific nationality and passport.
What happens if my visa is refused?
Visa refusals are rare when documentation is complete and correctly prepared. PIC Management guides you through every step of the Embassy process. In the event of a refusal, we assess all available options together.
What is the difference between the J-1 visa and an Erasmus+ internship?
Erasmus+ is limited to placements within Europe and is funded through your university. The J-1 visa allows you to intern in the United States and receive a stipend paid directly by your US employer. The two are complementary: Erasmus+ for Europe, J-1 for the USA.
Applications are now open. Places are limited and filled on a rolling basis.
contact@pic-management.com
Page last updated: May 2026 · Source: US Department of State — Exchange Visitor Program