Frequently Asked Questions
BASICS
I want to work in the United States. Can I apply for a J-1 visa through Pan Atlantic?
NO. The J-1 visa is a training visa only, not a work visa.
Am I automatically guaranteed a visa when I apply through Pan Atlantic?
NO. Pan Atlantic will process your paperwork and issue the DS-2019 form, which you will submit to the US Embassy in your home country to apply for the visa. The US embassy in your home country will make the final decision about whether or not you will be granted the visa.
Can I get a second job while I am training on a J-1 visa?
NO. You may not seek additional employment while you are training on a J-1 visa.
Can I bring my spouse and/or children with me to the US while I train?
Possibly. For the procedures for J-2 applicants (Spouse/Dependent) please refer to our J-2 Dependent Visa section.
What are your requirements for a J-1 trainee?
Please see the Types of J-1 Visas and Eligibility Requirements Section.
How long is a typical training program?
Pan Atlantic sponsors a number of different programs of varying lengths. Please contact Pan Atlantic for more information specific to your situation
Will I paid during my training program?
You will agree to these terms with your host company prior to your departure for the US. The rates of pay vary by type of training, level of experience, and geographic location in the United States.
The stipend you receive during your training program may not cover all costs associated with program participation. You should have additional financial resources to cover your expenses while in the U.S.
The stipend you receive during your training program may not cover all costs associated with program participation. You should have additional financial resources to cover your expenses while in the U.S.
Is my host company required to give me paid vacation time?
NO. The Fair Labor Standards Act does not require payment for time not worked, such as vacations, sick leave, or federal or other holidays. These benefits are matters of agreement between an intern/trainee and the intern/trainee's host property representative. Most host properties DO provide vacation time for their intern/trainees after a probationary period. Please discuss this with the human resources representative at your host company in order to determine any vacation time that may be allowed.
HOW TO GET STARTED
I do not have a Program Placement Secured. Can Pan Atlantic help connect me with a U.S. Host company?
We may have the ability to provide placement support depending on your desired field of training. If you are looking for assistance with securing a placement, please select Apply Now and follow instructions for submission.
I have already accepted a position Offer. How do I begin in the application process?
To apply for visa sponsorship through Pan Atlantic please use the Apply Now link and follow the directions. Pan Atlantic will review your documents and determine if you are qualified. Once you have been approved, Pan Atlantic will email you with additional details and directions about the process.
How long does it take to get a J-1 visa from the day that I send you my application materials?
Processing time varies. From the date that the completed application arrives in our offices, we are usually able to send you the required documents in 6-8 weeks. The Visa Appointment Wait Times vary from country to country, and can range from several days to weeks.
THE APPLICATION PROCESS
I have submitted my online application. How soon can I expect Pan Atlantic to contact me with a prospective training company?
The amount of time varies according to availability of appropriate positions in the area of the country where you want to train. It can take time to find the perfect fit and training program for your skill set and preferences. Your Pan Atlantic placement coordinator will give you updates to let you know where we are in the process. If no placement has been found within 12 weeks, and you prefer to withdraw from the placement search all but an administrative fee of $100 will be refunded to you.
I have completed the online application. What are the next steps in the process?
Pan Atlantic will review your information and get back to you within one week to let you know whether we will be able to sponsor your J-1 visa. If you are approved, we will contact you by email about the next steps in the process.
Am I required to have health insurance during my U.S. Stay?
Yes. The U.S. Department of State requires that all Exchange Visitors are covered by health insurance for the duration that's listed on their DS-2019 Forms.
Can I receive insurance Coverage through Pan Atlantic?
Yes! In fact, all participants under Pan Atlantic- sponsorship are enrolled in the insurance policy we utilize, which meets all coverage requirements set by the U.S. Department of State.
Can I use my own insurance?
The short answer is yes! However, please note that regardless of whether you choose to enroll in an alternative, supplemental policy plan; You will nonetheless be enrolled in the policy plan utilized by Pan Atlantic on behalf of all Exchange Visitors.
I have sent you my full application. What happens now?
Once you are accepted for visa sponsorship, we will work with you and your host company to generate the required documents for your visa application. We will remain in constant contact with you about the next steps in the process.
Am I required to apply for the J-1 visa in my home country?
Demonstrating strong ties to your home country is an important part of your visa application. Therefore, in most circumstances it is best to apply in your home country, because the official interviewing you at the embassy will want to know about your strong connections to the country in which you are applying. If you apply in a country where you have no particular connections (no family, no job or academics to go back to, no temporary residency) you risk denial of your visa application.
I am currently going to school in a country other than my home country. Can I apply for my visa at the US embassy in the country where I am in school?
If you plan to return to that country to continue with school, or if you have family in the country where you are going to school, or a job to return to you may try to apply in that country. Remember- it is important to be able to prove that you have strong ties to the country where you are applying for the visa!
What happens if my visa is denied?
If you are denied the visa please contact Pan Atlantic and we will discuss the circumstances with you. It is possible to reapply after a denial if you can supply relevant supporting documentation to address any concerns about your visa application.
FEES AND REFUND POLICY
What Fees are Involved in The Program Process?
What is Pan Atlantic's refund policy?