News

Work and Travel News

Important Notice About News Articles

Articles on this page are regularly updated as new information becomes available . Immigration policies, visa regulations, and program requirements can change frequently. Always verify important details directly with official sources such as:

  • U.S. Embassy Kingston — jm.usembassy.gov
  • Your J-1 Visa Sponsor Organization (InterExchange, CIEE, Cultural Vistas, etc.)
  • Ministry of Labour & Social Security (MLSS) — mlss.gov.jm

Never make critical decisions (financial commitments, travel bookings, job acceptances) based solely on news articles without confirming current requirements with your sponsor.

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Trump's H-1B Fee Hike May Push Jamaican Talent Abroad

Subtitle: Immigration attorneys warn that US$100,000 visa fee could drive Jamaican professionals toward Canada, China, and remote work.
Author: Vanassa McKenzie
Year: 2025
Publication Date: October 15, 2025
Category: Immigration News
Tags: H-1B visa, Jamaican professionals, immigration policy, visa fee increase, Donald Trump, global talent migration
Sources: Jamaica Observer
Article Summary: The Trump administration's decision to raise the H-1B visa application fee to US$100,000 has sparked concern among immigration attorneys and Jamaican professionals. Experts warn that the steep cost could deter U.S. employers from hiring foreign talent, pushing skilled Jamaicans to seek opportunities in countries like Canada and China. The Chinese government recently launched a sponsor-free K-Visa to attract STEM professionals. Attorneys also caution that smaller U.S. firms may struggle to afford the new fee, and scams targeting hopeful applicants could rise amid the uncertainty. Remote work and outsourcing may increase, but data security remains a concern.

U.S. Visa Surcharge Delayed Amid Infrastructure Gaps

Subtitle: Immigration attorney warns surcharge could be implemented suddenly despite current delays.
Author: RJR News Staff
Year: 2025
Publication Date: October 3, 2025
Category: Immigration News
Tags: non-immigrant visa, U.S. surcharge, visa integrity fee, immigration enforcement, visa waiver, Donald Trump, DHS
Sources: RJR News
Article Summary: The U.S. government has postponed the implementation of a US$250 surcharge on non-immigrant visas, originally scheduled for October 1, 2025. Immigration attorney Oliver Langstadt suggests the delay stems from logistical challenges at consular posts and embassies. The surcharge, part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, would apply only to successful visa applicants from non-waiver countries like Jamaica. It aims to fund immigration enforcement and border security, and is refundable if visa holders comply with all terms. However, no clear repayment mechanism has been outlined, and the Department of Homeland Security could activate the fee at any time.

J-1 Visa Workers Exploited in U.S. Labor Program

Subtitle: Cultural exchange program exposes foreign workers to abuse, unsafe labor, and exploitation across U.S. industries.
Author: Amy Julia Harris
Year: 2025
Publication Date: September 21, 2025
Category: Immigration News
Tags: J-1 visa, labor exploitation, cultural exchange, migrant workers, U.S. immigration, workplace abuse
Sources: Business Standard
Article Summary: This investigative report reveals how the U.S. J-1 visa program, originally designed for cultural exchange, has become a pipeline for cheap labor. Foreign workers from countries like Kosovo, Brazil, and South Africa were lured with promises of training and cultural immersion, only to face grueling hours, unsafe conditions, and threats of deportation. The article documents cases of physical injury, sexual harassment, wage theft, and systemic neglect by sponsors and employers. Despite repeated warnings and lawsuits, oversight remains weak, allowing exploitation to persist across industries from agriculture to architecture.

J-1 Visa Program Under Federal Scrutiny for Labor Abuse

Subtitle: A New York Times investigation reveals how cultural exchange visas have become a pipeline for cheap labor in the U.S.
Author: Amy Julia Harris
Year: 2025
Publication Date: September 20, 2025
Category: Immigration News
Tags: J-1 visa, labor exploitation, cultural exchange, immigration, State Department, investigative journalism
Sources: The New York Times
Article Summary: The New York Times investigation uncovers widespread abuse within the J-1 visa program, which was intended to foster cultural exchange. Instead, many young foreign workers were assigned menial and degrading jobs such as packing dog food in Iowa and cleaning pig pens in Nebraska. The program's lack of oversight has allowed employers to exploit these workers, often under threat of deportation. The findings raise serious concerns about the role of the State Department and the integrity of the program.

Cap Reached for Additional Returning Worker H-2B Visas for the Early Second Half of FY 2025

Subtitle: USCIS Announces Cap for supplemental H-2B visas
Author: United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Year: 2025
Publication Date: April 23, 2025
Category: Immigration News
Tags: H-2B Visa, US Employment, Temporary Worker Program, Immigration Policy
Sources: USCIS
Article Summary: The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has reached the cap for the additional 19,000 H-2B visas allocated for returning workers in the early second half of fiscal year 2025. The final date for accepting petitions under this allocation was April 18, 2025. These visas apply to temporary non-agricultural workers with start dates from April 1 to May 14, 2025. Further information on the FY 2025 supplemental visas is available through USCIS’s official resources.

Mom On J-1 Visa Who Abandoned Baby in North Myrtle Beach Won't Face Jail Time

Subtitle: Charges dismissed against mother who left newborn in bushes
Author: Terri Richardson
Year: 2025
Publication Date: April 8, 2025
Category: News
Tags: J-1 Visa, Crime, North Myrtle Beach, US Embassy
Sources: Myrtle Beach Sun News
Article Summary: Britney Wheatle, a 21-year-old J-1 visa holder, was arrested in August 2023 for abandoning her newborn baby in a North Myrtle Beach neighborhood. The infant survived after being discovered by a resident. Recently, charges against Wheatle were dismissed, and she will not face jail time. This case has sparked discussions on the challenges foreign workers face, as well as legal and social support systems available to J-1 visa holders.
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FY 2026 H-1B Initial Registration Selection Process Completed

Subtitle: USCIS announces completion of the FY 2026 H-1B registration process
Author: United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Year: 2025
Publication Date: March 31, 2025
Category: Immigration News
Tags: H-1B Visa, Immigration Policy, Temporary Worker Program, USCIS
Sources: USCIS
Article Summary: USCIS has announced that it has received enough electronic registrations to meet the fiscal year 2026 H-1B cap, including the advanced degree exemption (master’s cap). Beneficiaries with properly submitted registrations have been randomly selected and notified that they are eligible to file an H-1B cap-subject petition. The petition filing period begins April 1, 2025, and will remain open for at least 90 days. Petitioners must submit the required documentation, including a valid passport or travel document used at the time of registration. The agency reminds applicants that selection only pertains to eligibility to file an H-1B cap-subject petition, and additional evidence may be required for petition approval.

Young Businessman Strives to Preserve Work-And-Travel for Jamaicans

Subtitle: First Class Cultural Travel Experience aims to secure Jamaica's future in US work exchange programs
Author: Loop News
Year: 2025
Publication Date: January 20, 2025
Category: News
Tags: Work and Travel, First Class Cultural Travel Experience, J-1 Visa, US Employment
Sources: Loop News
Article Summary: Sanjay Anderson, President of First Class Cultural Travel Experience, is working to ensure Jamaica remains a key participant in the US work-and-travel program. His company hosted an orientation event to prepare over 800 students for employment opportunities in America. Anderson highlighted challenges with Jamaican students’ workplace attitudes, stressing that employers favor those with strong work ethics. He also addressed concerns about fraudulent agencies scamming students, urging continued improvements to protect the program's longevity. Anderson's agency, founded in 2019, has grown rapidly, sending an increasing number of students to the US annually. He remains committed to maintaining affordability for participants while fostering a sustainable future for Jamaican work-and-travel hopefuls.

H-1B Final Rule, H-2 Final Rule, and Revised Form I-129 Effective Jan. 17, 2025

Subtitle: USCIS announces key updates to nonimmigrant visa programs
Author: United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Year: 2025
Publication Date: January 15, 2025
Category: Immigration News
Tags: H-1B Visa, H-2 Visa, Form I-129, Immigration Policy, USCIS
Sources: USCIS
Article Summary: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has announced final rules for the H-1B and H-2 nonimmigrant visa programs, set to take effect on January 17, 2025. USCIS will also release a revised Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, on the same date, reflecting combined regulatory changes. The H-1B rule modernizes the program by improving flexibility for employers and strengthening integrity measures. The H-2 rule enhances worker protections, imposing penalties on companies that violate labor laws. USCIS has confirmed that from January 17 onward, only the latest edition of Form I-129 (dated 01/17/25) will be accepted. Any petitions submitted using the previous 04/01/24 edition on or after this date will be rejected.

Alleged Work And Travel Fraud Deepens As More Students Come Forward

Subtitle: Students still waiting on refunds as new allegations emerge
Author: Nakinskie Robinson
Year: 2025
Publication Date: January 10, 2025
Category: Scam Alerts
Tags: Work and Travel, Fraud, First Rio, Student Refunds, Jamaica
Sources: Radio Jamaica News
Article Summary: The alleged work-and-travel fraud involving First Rio continues to escalate as additional students come forward. Initially affecting nearly 100 students, another group of six has now revealed they also lost significant amounts of money after paying fees for promised job placements in the US. Despite earlier assurances of full refunds, the affected students have yet to receive their money. First Rio's owner, Christelle Bernard, reportedly partnered with another agency to generate funds for repayments, but progress has been slow. Some students are hesitant to roll their payments over to next year's program due to distrust. Authorities urge those affected to file official complaints to assist in ongoing investigations.

Police Urge People Swindled By Work And Travel Agency To File Reports

Subtitle: Authorities seek more complaints in fraudulent overseas employment case
Author: Nakinskie Robinson
Year: 2025
Publication Date: January 9, 2025
Category: Scam Alerts
Tags: Work and Travel, Fraud, Police Investigation, St. Ann, Jamaica
Sources: Radio Jamaica News
Article Summary: The St. Ann police are urging approximately 75 individuals who were allegedly defrauded by First Rio, a Work and Travel agency, to file official reports to aid an ongoing investigation. Around 80 students were denied employment in the US for the 2024 summer period, with many facing significant financial losses. Despite the agency withholding over USD $150,000, only five students have reported the matter to authorities. Law enforcement is actively searching for the agency's owner, Christelle Bernard, and an arrest warrant is in place. Investigators are working to determine if Bernard has left the island, while affected students are encouraged to consult the Ministry of Labour for verified employment agencies.

New Safeguards for Jamaican Visa Applicants

Subtitle: U.S. Embassy Kingston enforces stricter recruiter checks to protect Jamaican seasonal workers from fraud and exploitation.
Author: Jamaica Observer Staff
Year: 2025
Publication Date: January 8, 2025
Category: Immigration News
Tags: J-1 visa, H-2B visa, Q-1 visa, recruiter fraud, U.S. Embassy Kingston, Jamaican workers, visa safety
Sources: Jamaica Observer
Article Summary: The U.S. Embassy in Kingston has launched the Jamaican Temporary Worker Safety Programme (JTWSP) to combat fraud and exploitation in visa recruitment. Starting January 1, 2025, all H-2B, J-1, and Q-1 visa applicants must disclose recruiter details in their DS-160 forms. Applications missing this information will be suspended. Recruiters must be registered with Jamaica's Ministry of Labour and the U.S. Department of Labor. The initiative aims to prevent labor trafficking and debt bondage, ensuring that Jamaican workers are protected and that visa processes remain secure and transparent.
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Important Changes for Temporary Work and Exchange Visa Applicants

Subtitle: US Embassy Kingston introduces new recruitment transparency rules
Author: Jamaica Observer
Year: 2025
Publication Date: January 8, 2025
Category: News
Tags: Work and Travel, H-2B Visa, J-1 Visa, Q-1 Visa, US Embassy, Recruitment Transparency
Sources: Jamaica Observer
Article Summary: The US Embassy in Kingston has implemented the Jamaican Temporary Worker Safety Programme (JTWSP) to regulate recruitment practices for H-2B, J-1, and Q-1 visa applicants. Effective January 1, 2025, all applicants must provide recruiter details in their DS-160 visa applications. The embassy will verify recruiters against official lists from Jamaica’s Ministry of Labour and Social Security and the US Department of Labor. Applications linked to unregistered recruiters will be rejected, requiring applicants to reapply with approved agencies. The measure seeks to curb fraudulent recruitment, unauthorized employment, and labour exploitation. Additionally, the Ministry of Labour has advised applicants not to pay recruiters without verifying their credentials. The US Embassy warns that visa fraud may result in permanent ineligibility for US visas.

Changes Coming For Jamaicans Seeking Temporary Work In The US

Subtitle: US Embassy introduces stricter regulations for foreign job recruiters
Author: Nakinskie Robinson
Year: 2024
Publication Date: December 20, 2024
Category: News
Tags: Work and Travel, H-2B Visa, J-1 Visa, Q-1 Visa, US Embassy, Labour Laws
Sources: Radio Jamaica News
Article Summary: The US Embassy in Kingston has announced the Jamaican Temporary Worker Security Program, set to take effect on January 1, 2025. This initiative aims to crack down on unregistered foreign job recruiters exploiting Jamaican workers. Under the new rules, H-2B, J-1, and Q-1 visa applicants must provide complete recruiter information in their DS-160 visa applications. Applications missing these details will be suspended until corrected. Exceptions may be granted for applicants with recent work-travel experience or direct employer sponsorship. The US Embassy warns that unauthorized job placements have led to labor trafficking and debt bondage, putting workers at risk. Authorities will verify recruiters against official lists from Jamaica's Ministry of Labour and Social Security and the US Department of Labor. Any applications linked to unregistered recruiters will be rejected, requiring applicants to reapply through approved agencies.

US Embassy Announces New Rules for Jamaican Temporary Work Visas

Subtitle: New security measures to regulate foreign recruiters
Author: Loop News
Year: 2024
Publication Date: December 20, 2024
Category: News
Tags: US Visa, H-2B Visa, J-1 Visa, Q-1 Visa, Work and Travel, Labour Laws
Sources: Loop News
Article Summary: The United States Embassy in Kingston has introduced the Jamaican Temporary Worker Security Programme, effective January 1, 2025, in response to concerns about unregistered foreign labour recruiters. Under the new rules, applicants for H-2B, J-1, and Q-1 visas must disclose their recruiting agency information when completing visa applications. The embassy will verify recruiters against official lists from the Jamaica Ministry of Labour and Social Security and the US Department of Labour. Applications missing this information or linked to unregistered recruiters will be rejected. Exceptions apply to applicants directly petitioned by US employers. The embassy also reminded Jamaicans that unregistered recruiting activities violate national employment laws. These measures aim to protect workers from exploitation, labour trafficking, and unauthorized employment arrangements.

DHS Announces Countries Eligible for H-2A and H-2B Visa Programs

Subtitle: List of approved countries for temporary agricultural and non-agricultural work visas
Author: United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Year: 2024
Publication Date: November 18, 2024
Category: Immigration News
Tags: H-2A Visa, H-2B Visa, Immigration Policy, Temporary Worker Program, Department of Homeland Security
Sources: USCIS
Article Summary: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the Department of State, has released an updated list of countries eligible to participate in the H-2A and H-2B visa programs for temporary agricultural and non-agricultural work. Effective November 8, 2024, Belize has been added to the list, while no countries have been removed. The eligibility list, published in the Federal Register, is valid until November 7, 2025. USCIS typically approves visa petitions only for nationals of designated countries but may grant exceptions on a case-by-case basis if deemed in the U.S. interest. The DHS retains the authority to amend the list based on compliance, fraud concerns, and visa overstay rates.

Restoring Trust in Travel: Passport Work and Travel Services Limited

Subtitle: Jamaican agency aims to rebuild confidence in work and travel services
Author: Codie-Ann Barrett
Year: 2024
Publication Date: September 8, 2024
Category: News
Tags: Work and Travel, Visa Services, Study Abroad, Jamaica, Trust in Travel
Sources: Jamaica Observer
Article Summary: The Passport Work and Travel Services Limited, founded in 2022 by Ravaine Mullings, is dedicated to restoring trust in Jamaica’s travel industry. Drawing from his experiences as an international student, Mullings created a service catering to visa assistance, work and travel programs, and study abroad opportunities. Within two years, the company expanded its offerings to include truck driver and forklift programs, securing authorization from Jamaica’s Ministry of Labour. Mullings credits his agency’s success to transparent policies, such as charging placement fees only after securing job positions. With a physical office in Kingston and strong international partnerships, the agency has helped over 2,000 clients achieve their travel goals while reinforcing confidence in overseas employment programs.

Students Express Dissatisfaction with ISATS

Subtitle: University students demand refunds and accountability
Author: Jamaica Gleaner
Year: 2024
Publication Date: May 28, 2024
Category: Scam Alerts
Tags: Work and Travel, ISATS, Refund Issues, Student Complaints, Jamaica
Sources: Jamaica Gleaner
Article Summary: The International Student Affairs and Travel Services (ISATS) faces mounting criticism from university students who claim the agency failed to deliver promised work-and-travel placements. Several students allege poor communication, broken promises, and unreturned fees amounting to thousands of US dollars. ISATS denies wrongdoing, blaming external factors such as employer declines and embassy closures. However, affected students argue that ISATS’ actions—or lack thereof—have caused serious financial hardship, with some unable to repay loans or cover tuition costs. While ISATS promises refunds, students remain skeptical as deadlines continue to be missed. The US Embassy in Kingston clarified that visa processing has not been unexpectedly delayed, contradicting ISATS’ claims about embassy-related disruptions. Investigations are ongoing.
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Work-and-Travel Pain: Students Struggle for Refunds

Subtitle: University students face financial strain after agency fails to deliver promised job placements
Author: Kimone Francis
Year: 2024
Publication Date: May 24, 2024
Category: Scam Alerts
Tags: Work and Travel, ISATS, Refund Issues, US Embassy, Jamaica
Sources: Jamaica Gleaner
Article Summary: The International Student Affairs and Travel Services (ISATS) is under scrutiny after failing to deliver promised work-and-travel placements for Jamaican university students. Many students, who paid between US$1,639 and US$1,910 to participate in the program, have been unable to secure jobs and have yet to receive refunds. ISATS claims external factors, including employer declines and US Embassy scheduling, contributed to the issues. However, the affected students argue that the company’s lack of communication and repeated delays in refunds have caused severe financial hardship. Some students now face debt and risk being unable to afford tuition for upcoming semesters. The US Embassy in Kingston denied any unexpected closures and stated that visa processing timelines have returned to normal, contradicting ISATS’ claims.

It’s time for your J-1 Summer Work Travel Visa

Subtitle: How Jamaican students can apply for the J-1 SWT visa
Author: Jamaica Observer
Year: 2024
Publication Date: March 6, 2024
Category: News
Tags: J-1 Visa, Summer Work Travel, US Embassy, Student Employment, Jamaica
Sources: Jamaica Observer
Article Summary: The J-1 Summer Work Travel (SWT) programme offers students and recent graduates the chance to work in the US while exploring a new culture. Participants find employment in summer camps, restaurants, hotels, and theme parks. In 2023, Jamaica ranked third among participating countries, with over 7,500 J-1 visas issued by the US Embassy in Kingston. To qualify, applicants must be enrolled full-time in a post-secondary academic institution and meet documentation requirements, including passports, DS-160 forms, and SEVIS fee receipts. The embassy encourages early applications, noting that typical wait times for J-1 visa interviews are less than a week. Renewals may qualify for an interview waiver, though some applicants may be required to attend interviews.

USCIS Issues Policy Guidance Regarding the 2-Year Foreign Residence Requirement for the J Nonimmigrant Classification

Subtitle: USCIS clarifies compliance and waiver criteria for J-1 visa holders
Author: United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Year: 2023
Publication Date: October 24, 2023
Category: Immigration Policy
Tags: J-1 Visa, Foreign Residence Requirement, Immigration Policy, Waivers, USCIS
Sources: USCIS
Article Summary: The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has updated its policy manual to clarify the two-year foreign residence requirement for nonimmigrant exchange visitors on J-1 visas. The policy explains how USCIS determines compliance with this requirement, the types of evidence benefit requestors may submit, and considerations for cases where fulfilling the requirement is effectively impossible. Additionally, USCIS corrected an omission related to foreign medical graduates' waiver eligibility, clarifying employment requirements for affected individuals. The guidance is effective immediately and aims to improve understanding of J-1 visa compliance and waiver procedures.

Students’ Group Urges Support for Embattled Jamaican J-1 Worker

Subtitle: JUTS calls for legal and psychosocial assistance for student facing charges
Author: Jamaica Observer
Year: 2023
Publication Date: August 13, 2023
Category: News
Tags: J-1 Visa, Student Support, Legal Aid, US Embassy, Jamaica
Sources: Jamaica Observer
Article Summary: The Jamaica Union of Tertiary Students (JUTS) is urging authorities to provide legal and psychosocial support for Jamaican J-1 visa holder Britney Wheatle, who was arrested in South Carolina after allegedly abandoning her newborn baby. JUTS President Christina Williams called on the Jamaican consulate in Miami to assist Wheatle while urging placement agencies to help. The organization emphasized the importance of sensitivity and empathy in handling the case. Williams also encouraged other J-1 students to seek help if they encounter difficulties. The South Carolina Department of Social Services confirmed that the infant is in emergency custody, and the state’s Daniel's Law allows parents to safely surrender newborns without legal repercussions.

Jamaican Students on Edge

Subtitle: Concerns rise after J-1 visa student faces charges in the US
Author: Rochelle Clayton
Year: 2023
Publication Date: August 13, 2023
Category: News
Tags: J-1 Visa, Work and Travel, US Embassy, Student Concerns, Jamaica
Sources: Jamaica Observer
Article Summary: Jamaican students enrolled in the US J-1 work-and-travel programme have expressed concerns following the arrest of 21-year-old participant Britney Wheatle. Wheatle was charged in South Carolina after allegedly abandoning her newborn baby. While some students worry about stricter screening procedures, others argue that this incident should not define the Jamaican student community participating in the programme. Deshawn Cooke, a graduate student at The University of the West Indies, highlighted the need for better emotional support for students. Mark Foster, CEO of a J-1 travel agency, reassured students that this isolated event would not impact the overall programme. Authorities continue to monitor the situation.

Jamaican In US On J-1 Visa Charged with Abandoning Baby in Bushes

Subtitle: 21-year-old student facing charges in South Carolina
Author: Loop News
Year: 2023
Publication Date: August 8, 2023
Category: News
Tags: J-1 Visa, Crime, Child Abandonment, US Embassy, Jamaica
Sources: Loop News
Article Summary: Jamaican student Britney Wheatle, 21, has been charged in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, after allegedly abandoning her newborn daughter in bushes. She was arrested at her workplace and confessed to leaving the baby after giving birth in an apartment nearby. A local resident found the infant, who was naked and lying in the dirt, and called authorities. Wheatle remains in custody with bond set at US$10,000. If convicted, she faces up to 10 years in prison. The case has raised concerns about support systems for J-1 visa holders and the challenges faced by international students working abroad.
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USCIS Expands Premium Processing for Applicants Seeking to Change into F, M, or J Nonimmigrant Status

Subtitle: Faster processing available for change of status applicants
Author: United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Year: 2023
Publication Date: June 12, 2023
Category: Immigration News
Tags: F-1 Visa, M-1 Visa, J-1 Visa, Premium Processing, USCIS
Sources: USCIS
Article Summary: USCIS has expanded premium processing for applicants filing Form I-539 to change their status to F-1, F-2, M-1, M-2, J-1, or J-2. This phased implementation allows certain applicants to submit Form I-907 for expedited processing starting June 13, 2023, for those with pending Form I-539 applications. Beginning June 26, 2023, applicants submitting Form I-539 along with Form I-907 may also request premium processing. The initiative aims to enhance efficiency while adhering to the Emergency Stopgap USCIS Stabilization Act, ensuring premium processing does not negatively impact other immigration requests. Applicants must complete biometric submissions before premium processing begins.

US Visa Wait Time Returns to Pre-Pandemic Levels

Subtitle: Visa processing speeds up for Jamaican applicants
Author: Loop News
Year: 2023
Publication Date: March 1, 2023
Category: News
Tags: US Visa, Immigration, Travel, J-1 Visa, H-2 Visa
Sources: Loop News
Article Summary: The wait time for US visa appointments in Jamaica has returned to pre-pandemic levels. Deputy Assistant Secretary for Visa Services, Julie Stufft, credited workforce expansions and application process efficiencies for the improvement. The H-2 temporary worker and J-1 Summer Work and Travel programmes were key discussion points during her visit. Ambassador N. Nick Perry highlighted that Jamaica is second only to Mexico in the number of H-2 workers going to the US annually. Extensive use of the interview waiver programme has also helped expedite the processing of applicant visas.

J-1 Summer Work and Travel Visa Requirements

Subtitle: Key eligibility and application steps for Jamaican students
Author: Jamaica Observer
Year: 2023
Publication Date: February 1, 2023
Category: News
Tags: J-1 Visa, Summer Work Travel, US Embassy, Student Employment, Jamaica
Sources: Jamaica Observer
Article Summary: The US Embassy in Jamaica, which processes the highest number of Summer Work and Travel (SWT) applicants worldwide, has outlined key requirements for eligibility. Applicants must be full-time students at accredited post-secondary institutions and have completed at least one semester. The program duration is limited to four months, and students must present official transcripts or progress reports at their visa interview. Essential application documents include a valid passport, DS-160 visa application form, DS-2019 form, SEVIS fee receipt, and proof of student status. The embassy has expanded appointment availability and advises applicants to apply early to secure a visa slot before their program start date.

More Jamaicans Benefit from Overseas Employment Programme

Subtitle: Increase in participation in Ministry of Labour's Overseas Employment Programme
Author: Jamaica Gleaner
Year: 2022
Publication Date: July 19, 2022
Category: News
Tags: Overseas Employment, Ministry of Labour, Farm Work, Hospitality Work, Canada, US
Sources: Jamaica Gleaner
Article Summary: The number of Jamaicans participating in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security's Overseas Employment Programme increased significantly in 2021, with 16,019 persons benefiting—up 24.8% from the previous year. The programme facilitates employment opportunities in the United States and Canada across various sectors, including farm work and hospitality. The US programmes saw a 21.2% rise in participants, while Canadian programmes grew by 27.2%. Despite women experiencing an 83.5% increase in participation, the programme remains male-dominated. Additionally, private employment agencies placed over 4,000 Jamaicans in overseas jobs.

A Miracle Too Good to Be True

Subtitle: Students risk losing money in work-and-travel nightmare
Author: Asha Wilks
Year: 2022
Publication Date: April 19, 2022
Category: Scam Alerts
Tags: Work and Travel, Miracle Travel Limited, Fraud, Student Refunds, Jamaica
Sources: Jamaica Gleaner
Article Summary: Students who enrolled in the US J-1 visa summer work-and-travel programme through Miracle Travel Limited faced financial losses after the company failed to secure placements. Many CMU students paid fees ranging from US$900 to US$2,000, hoping to travel in 2020. However, after the COVID-19 pandemic halted international travel, refunds were promised but never fulfilled. Attempts to contact the agency’s manager, Philan Minott, were unsuccessful, with students alleging poor communication and lack of transparency. Some students tracked down Minott’s family members seeking assistance, but little progress was made. The Ministry of Labour and police have advised affected students to file formal complaints to trigger investigations.

Work And Travel in Limbo

Subtitle: J-1 visa uncertainty has Jamaicans on tenterhooks
Author: Romario Scott
Year: 2021
Publication Date: April 12, 2021
Category: News
Tags: Work and Travel, J-1 Visa, US Embassy, Jamaica
Sources: Jamaica Gleaner
Article Summary: The work-and-travel program remains in limbo as Jamaicans hoping to secure a J-1 visa continue to face uncertainty. The Trump-era ban on the J-1 visa expired, but the Biden administration has yet to provide clarity on its renewal. With appointment dates at the US Embassy in Kingston being set for September, students and workers eagerly awaiting updates are growing anxious. Many have paid upwards of $250,000 to participate in the program but fear they may lose their investment if approvals do not come in time.
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Gov't Could Suspend H2B, J1 Work And Travel Programmes

Subtitle: Travel restrictions could impact work and travel programmes
Author: Radio Jamaica News
Year: 2020
Publication Date: March 16, 2020
Category: News
Tags: Work and Travel, H2B Visa, J-1 Visa, COVID-19, Travel Restrictions
Sources: Radio Jamaica News
Article Summary: The Jamaican government is considering suspending H2B and J-1 work and travel programmes due to COVID-19 concerns. Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett stated that allowing travel could make it difficult to contain the spread of the virus. While no formal announcements have been made, the tightening of global restrictions suggests a pause is likely. Many Jamaican workers participating in these programmes are employed in the hotel sector, which has been severely impacted by reduced international travel. Hotels, facing limited guest occupancy, may not require additional workers, further complicating the situation for seasonal employees.

The US J-1 Visa Summer Work/Travel Programme

Subtitle: Opportunities and considerations for Jamaican students
Author: Jamaica Observer
Year: 2019
Publication Date: February 13, 2019
Category: News
Tags: J-1 Visa, Summer Work Travel, US Embassy, Student Employment, Jamaica
Sources: Jamaica Observer
Article Summary: The J-1 Summer Work Travel programme allows foreign students to live and work in the United States during summer vacations while experiencing American culture. The programme is popular among Jamaican university students, with many participants returning multiple times. Unlike some misconceptions, students do not need to pay local agency fees in Jamaica, as designated US sponsors handle job placement, visa paperwork, and insurance arrangements. Common jobs include service positions at resorts, hotels, restaurants, and amusement parks. Participants are protected under US labour laws, with rights such as fair wages and protections against workplace abuse. Students are encouraged to apply early, review visa requirements carefully, and seek advice from experienced J-1 participants for a successful experience.

Hanna Seeks Clarity on US Work and Travel Programme

Subtitle: Jamaican government urged to address student concerns over Trump’s visa ban
Author: Jamaica Observer
Year: 2017
Publication Date: January 29, 2017
Category: News
Tags: Work and Travel, J-1 Visa, Immigration Policy, Trump Administration, Jamaica
Sources: Jamaica Observer
Article Summary: Opposition Spokesperson on Youth and Culture, Lisa Hanna, has called on the Jamaican government to clarify whether US President Donald Trump’s recent immigration orders could affect Jamaican students seeking employment through the J-1 visa programme. Hanna expressed concerns that broad language in the executive order could restrict access for students reliant on the program to finance their education and gain work experience. She urged the government to address the uncertainty and provide guidance for students preparing for summer employment in the US, questioning how Jamaica would absorb the increased demand for jobs if students were denied access to the program.

St Thomas Students Offer Overseas Work Programme Loans

Subtitle: Young entrepreneurs provide financial assistance for students
Author: Jamaica Gleaner
Year: 2017
Publication Date: January 11, 2017
Category: News
Tags: Work and Travel, J1 Financiers, Student Loans, Entrepreneurship, Jamaica
Sources: Jamaica Gleaner
Article Summary: J1 Financier International Limited, founded by O'Brian Morris alongside co-founders Jevaughn Rose and Rolando Green, has grown into a major financial support system for Jamaican students participating in overseas work and travel programs. Originally started as a favor among friends, the loan agency now provides funding for program fees, airfare, housing deposits, and tax-filing services. The business, which operates out of 1 Stanton Terrace, Kingston, has expanded rapidly, doubling the number of clients it serves. In addition to student loans, the young entrepreneurs have made charitable contributions, including a $300,000 donation for emergency medical assistance. The founders, currently completing degrees at UTech, aim to introduce interest-free loan options to further assist students.

5 Jamaican Students Arrested in Walmart Shoplifting Scandal

Subtitle: Jamaican work-and-travel participants face retail theft charges in Florida
Author: Jamaica Observer
Year: 2015
Publication Date: August 27, 2015
Category: News
Tags: Work and Travel, Crime, Retail Theft, Walmart, Jamaica
Sources: Jamaica Observer
Article Summary: Five Jamaican students employed at Walmart in Walton County, Florida, were arrested and charged with retail theft and conspiracy to commit fraud. Deputies responded to reports of store employees stealing merchandise between August 11 and 22. The group allegedly worked together to remove items from transactions using deceptive scanning methods. One suspect admitted that it was an “associate thing,” suggesting an internal scheme among employees. All five individuals were participants in a student work-and-travel program.
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