ACES is a US designated J-1 Exchange Visitor sponsor for both the Camp Counselor and Summer Work Travel programs.

Our close relationship with many of the most elite US summer camp operations means that Participants in these programs work with highly skilled Camp Directors to provide amazing opportunities for children throughout the US.

Most camps require a 9 week commitment from staff.

Employment Opportunities

Summer Camp Counselors: Living with and teaching children in a summer camp setting is both challenging and exciting at the same time. Camp Counselors typically live with cabin groups of 4-8 campers and a co-counselor. In addition to cabin life, counselors typically possess one or more skills that they are able to teach as well.

Summer Camp Support Staff: Camps are like small cities. In addition to the campers and counselors, there are also a core group of staff who “support” all of the camp operations. These positions include: kitchen staff, waiters/waitresses, maintenance staff, office staff, drivers, housekeeping, porters, laundry staff and more.

Employment Restrictions

The visa program you apply for is dependent on your employment. Participants working as camp counselors even if specialized, participate in the camp counselor program while support staff positions such as office, maintenance, dining hall staff, driver, etc. are part of the summer work travel program. These are two distinct visas and as such your employment is not interchangeable. Although there are general duties associated with the Camp Counselor position, once the visa is issued, participants may not work primarily as a kitchen staff or office staff. A support staff member cannot accept a change of employment to become a camp counselor.

Travel

In both program guidelines, you are permitted to enter the US up to 30 days before employment begins and may stay to travel up to 30 days after employment ends. HOWEVER, participants of the summer work travel program are limited to the total amount of time officially established by the university as summer break, even if you are a graduate. Should you enter the US prior to your contract date or travel after your contract date, you are responsible for any and all arrangements and associated costs.