Two of the most popular ways for hospitality students to gain paid international experience are PIC Management’s New Zealand paid hospitality internship and the USA J-1 hotel internship. Both put you in hotels and restaurants in an English-speaking country, but they differ in length, eligibility, pay structure and lifestyle. This comparison helps you choose.
Side-by-side comparison
| New Zealand | USA (J-1) | |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 6 months | Up to 12 months |
| Who can apply | Students currently enrolled in a related programme | Students enrolled in a related programme or recent graduates, within the age range set by the programme |
| Pay | Hourly: at least the NZ minimum wage stated in the offer (NZD 23.95/hour) | Monthly stipend stated in the programme (from USD 2,000/month) |
| Hours | Minimum 30 h/week, about 40 h in practice | Full-time placement |
| English | Fluent | B1 to B2 depending on the position |
| Departments | F&B, culinary, front office, housekeeping | Front office, F&B, culinary, housekeeping, events, sales |
| Visa | Immigration New Zealand visa (fee depends on nationality) | J-1 visa with a sponsor (DS-2019) and embassy interview |
| On-arrival support | Local team: airport pickup, 2 nights in Auckland, bank account, tax number, SIM | Pre-departure support and accommodation guidance |
Figures and conditions come from each programme page and can change: always check the current offer before applying.
Choose New Zealand if…
- you want a shorter commitment (6 months) that fits between two academic years;
- you are still enrolled in your hospitality, tourism or culinary course;
- you like the idea of an hourly wage where extra hours mean extra pay;
- you value a structured arrival: pickup, first nights in Auckland, help with the bank account and tax number;
- you are attracted by nature, outdoor life and a relaxed pace.
Choose the USA J-1 if…
- you want a longer experience of up to a year;
- you have recently graduated and are no longer enrolled;
- you are aiming for large hotel brands and destinations such as Florida, New York or California;
- you are interested in events, banquets or hotel sales departments.
What both programmes have in common
- Real, paid work in hospitality — not an unpaid placement.
- An interview with the host employer before you leave.
- A visa decided by the destination country’s authorities: nobody can guarantee it.
- Placement that depends on your profile, English level and interview.
Budget: think in total, not just in salary
Compare programme fees, visa costs, flights, insurance and the cost of living on site with what you will earn. In New Zealand, the offer lists a programme fee of NZD 5,450, a PIC Management fee of USD 1,000 and a visa fee that depends on your nationality. See the full breakdown in our New Zealand internship guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can I do both?
Yes, one after the other, as long as you meet the eligibility conditions of each programme at the time you apply.
Which one is easier to get?
Neither is automatic. Your English level, a course related to the position and a good interview make the difference in both cases.
Apply here: New Zealand Paid Hospitality Internship · USA J-1 hotel internships.