Your flight
Flights will be arranged for you as part of your program. If you are unsure about your flight arrangements then check the ‘Travel and Flights’ section of your Resort Leaders profile.
You will receive an email notification of your outbound flight, no later than 10 days before your travel date. Once you receive this email, go to the Travel and Flights section to access your flight booking reservation number. You can view everything you need to know about your flights through your airline’s website.
Always arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to your scheduled departure. Check the screens for the latest gate info as they may change.
Travel delays
You may be held up with flight delays. If your flight is significantly delayed at your home airport you should contact your local Resort Leaders office and let them know what is happening. The country office will follow up with your case as soon as they can but by the time you get to America, they will have a new onward travel ready for you.
At most American airports there will likely be access to free WiFi once you have cleared customs. Always keep your resort contact informed of any delay that may happen. Their information is detailed in the Travel and Flights section of your profile.
Immigration and customs
There are some things that you need to know to make sure that everything goes as smoothly as possible.
When arriving at the Immigration and Customs desk, be ready to answer questions and provide your documents to US immigration. It is important to be friendly, do not have your phone out, have your important documents readily available, passport, visa, DS-2019 form, visa sponsor job offer contract, SEVIS receipt and customs form that you completed on the plane. Know the address and name of the resort that you are going to. Have a copy of your onward travel instructions printed out with your important paperwork as this has the resort name and address on it.
In addition to reviewing your documents, an immigration officer will also ask you some questions: such as ‘What are you doing in the USA?’ Be prepared for this and please answer appropriately. For example: “I am going to Resort (Name) to be a server.” They will also take your photograph and fingerprints.
Now collect your luggage and head for the exit where you will pass through customs. Hand your customs form to the officer and be prepared to answer any questions.
ESTA
You may have heard of an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), which is the online application you have to submit before you can visit America as a tourist.
You are not entering the United States on your ESTA, you are entering with your J1 Visa.