What documents do I need?
Your Resort Leaders profile has a documents section that lists exactly what you need to upload, along with deadlines and guidance. The exact list depends on your country and program. Here is what most participants need.
File format
Upload every document as a single PDF under 2MB. If a document has more than one page, merge the pages into one file. You can use a free online tool to convert files to PDF and to merge pages.
Documents for your application
Most of these are due soon after you’re accepted. Your profile shows the exact deadline for each one.
Passport — valid for at least six months beyond your stay in the US, with at least two blank pages, and not torn, water damaged, or previously reported lost or stolen. Make sure the name in your Basic Information matches your passport exactly, as any mismatch can mean paying again to reissue your visa or change your flight
Proof of student status (J-1 programs) — a certificate of studies, proof of enrollment, or transcript from your university, stamped and with a translation if it is not in English
Eligibility certificate (Traineeship) — proof of a degree plus one year of related experience, or five years of related experience, with an employer letter and certified translations, merged into one file
References — letters of recommendation from previous employers on headed paper, signed and stamped where possible, matching your CV. If you have no work experience, a letter from a professor is fine. Upload at least one as soon as you can. See Adding your references
Previous J-1 visas — if you have held a J-1 visa before, upload copies of all passport pages with a J-1 visa, including any expired passports, merged into one PDF
Medical clearance — only if you declared a medical condition. We will contact you and provide the form. See Background and medical declarations
Documents around placement and your visa
These come later, once you have a placement and start your visa process. Your profile prompts you for each one at the right time.
Placement offer and job offer letter — review and sign your placement offer in your profile. Once you accept, we send an official offer letter to sign and upload. Read it carefully before signing, and contact us first if anything is unclear
DS-2019 — issued by your visa sponsor. Upload the original PDF once you receive it. Do not sign or print it, and check that your personal details, dates, and position are correct
DS-160 confirmation page — the barcoded confirmation PDF from your online visa application
Visa fee receipt — the receipt from paying your visa fee, renamed with the reference number you are given
Visa appointment confirmation — the confirmation from the embassy showing your visa class, consulate, date, and time
Your visa — once approved, upload a clear photo or scan of the visa in your passport
Depending on your sponsor and program you may also need a Placement Agreement Form (for CIEE) or a training plan (DS-7002, for trainees). Your profile will guide you.
Where do I get my resort contract?
Once you have been placed, your country office or visa sponsor will email your contract. Double-check all the details before you sign.