What Is the J-1 Program and How to Do an Internship in the USA?
Doing an internship in the United States is one of the most valuable international experiences for students and recent graduates. Beyond improving English skills, it offers real exposure to the U.S. labor market, professional growth, and a strong international profile.To ensure this experience is legal, structured, and safe, the United States offers a specific pathway for international internships: the J-1 Program.In this article, we explain what the J-1 program is, how it works, and how you can do an internship in the USA step by step with Piktalent.
What is the J-1 Program?
The J-1 Program is part of the Exchange Visitor Program, an official initiative of the U.S. government designed to promote cultural and professional exchange between countries.Within this framework, the J-1 Visa allows international students and young professionals to complete professional internships or training programs in U.S. companies for a defined period, under strict educational guidelines.Unlike other visa types, the J-1 is specifically focused on:- Structured learning
- Professional development
- Cultural exchange
Types of Internships Under the J-1 Visa
Internship (for students)
Designed for:- University students
- Master’s students
- Higher education or vocational students
- Must be related to the field of study
- Duration: 3 to 12 months
- Strong educational and supervised component
Trainee (for graduates and young professionals)
Designed for:- Recent graduates
- Young professionals with experience
- Advanced training focus
- Duration: up to 18 months
- Requires prior academic background and experience
Who Can Do an Internship in the USA with a J-1 Visa?
The J-1 Program is intended for international profiles that meet specific criteria:- Currently enrolled students or recent graduates
- Academic background related to the internship field
- Functional English level (B1–B2 recommended)
- No recent long-term stay in the U.S. under restricted visas
- A structured training plan approved in advance
Sectors with the Most Internship Opportunities in the USA
The J-1 Program covers a wide range of professional fields, including:- Business & Administration
- Marketing & Digital Marketing
- Hospitality & Tourism
- IT & Technology
- Engineering
- Architecture & Design
- Finance & Economics
How to Do an Internship in the USA: Step by Step
1) Profile Assessment and Career Goals
We start by reviewing:- Academic background
- Previous experience
- Professional objectives
- Availability and preferred dates
2) Company Placement and Training Plan
The J-1 visa requires an approved Training Plan, which clearly defines:- Tasks and responsibilities
- Learning objectives
- Supervision and mentoring
- Skills to be developed
3) Official J-1 Sponsor
To apply for the visa, candidates must work with an authorized J-1 Sponsor, responsible for validating the program and issuing the official documentation.Piktalent collaborates exclusively with officially authorized J-1 sponsors.4) J-1 Visa Application
Once the documentation is approved:- Embassy appointment is scheduled
- Full application is submitted
- J-1 visa is issued
5) Preparation and Arrival in the USA
This phase includes:- Mandatory medical insurance
- Pre-departure orientation
- Ongoing support during the internship
What Does Piktalent’s J-1 Program Support Include?
At Piktalent, we go beyond placement. We design and manage complete international internship experiences.Our support includes:- Eligibility assessment
- Matching with U.S. host companies
- Coordination with the J-1 sponsor
- Visa process management
- Medical insurance coverage
- Continuous support before, during, and after the internship
Why Choose the J-1 Program for an Internship in the USA?
- International professional experience
- Real improvement in English skills
- Strong and competitive CV profile
- Development of soft skills
- Global career perspective
