Top 20 Ways To Secure Teaching Jobs In USA With Visa Sponsorship

Key Takeaways

• Candidates must satisfy the teaching standards of the U.S. state where they will teach, including obtaining state licensing if required.
• Programs like Cultural Vistas and Greenheart Exchange provide visa sponsorship and support for international teachers.
• The primary types of visas for teachers are the J-1 visa and the H-1B visa, each with specific eligibility requirements and benefits.
• Many programs offer additional support such as relocation assistance, health insurance aid, and pre-arrival orientation.
• Applicants typically need a degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 2 years of teaching or related professional experience.

1. Cultural Vistas

Cultural Vistas has been designated as an “Exchange Visitor Program” sponsor by the U.S. Department of State. This means that Cultural Vistas is responsible for reviewing the participant and host organization applications to ensure they meet the criteria established by the U.S. government for this visa. Cultural Vistas also acts as a resource and support system for visitors to ensure they have a safe and positive exchange experience.

Unlike other visas, Cultural Vistas acts as the legal visa sponsor of the participant for the duration of the program in the United States. The participant is the individual who is coming to the U.S. on an Exchange Visitor Program, and the host organization is the school district that will be providing a teaching position to the participant.

Cultural Vistas is able to sponsor teachers in public schools only in certain states:

• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Florida
• Georgia
• Illinois
• Kentucky
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Montana
• Nevada
• New Jersey
• New York
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Virginia
• Washington
• Wisconsin
• Washington, D.C.

We can always apply for new ones! Just let us know.

2. Greenheart Exchange

Greenheart Exchange has been a J-1 visa sponsor for many years, providing hands-on support every step of the way. They offer a 24/7 emergency phone number to reach a staff member at any time and a pre-departure webinar before you leave. As a non-profit, mission-based organization, Greenheart Exchange ensures continued support throughout your time in the USA.

Why Choose Greenheart Exchange?

• 35 years of experience with cultural exchange programs
• Hands-on support every step of the way
• 24/7 emergency phone number
• Pre-departure Webinar
• Non-profit, mission-based organization
• Continued support throughout your time in the USA

Program Fees

Best Practices for Host School Approval

• If you are a self-placed teacher with an official offer and/or Letter of Intent, ensure your host school completes the host school application immediately.
• All new host schools must be approved by Greenheart Exchange prior to an official placement approval.
• To assist in locating an accredited host school in the U.S., we recommend a registry such as Cognia.

Greenheart Exchange partners with a third-party entity, offering discounted rates to our applicants. For more information, please contact the Teach USA team.

3. EPI (Educational Partners International)

EPI (Educational Partners International) is a private organization that provides exchange opportunities for K-12 teachers from both the public and private sectors. They offer a comprehensive program that supports teachers from the moment they express interest until they are well-established in their teaching positions in the United States. Visa sponsorship is available, allowing teachers to stay in the U.S. for up to five years on a J-1 visa. At the end of the program, teachers return to their home countries with enhanced professional skills and a deeper understanding of U.S. culture.

Teacher Benefits

• Paid on the same salary scale as U.S. teachers
• Local & in-class support from EPI
• Access to a 24/7 support line for emergencies

Application Process

1. Start your application by expressing interest in the program.
2. Complete the necessary documentation and interviews.
3. Receive guidance and support from EPI throughout the process.
4. Arrive in the U.S. and begin your teaching assignment.

EPI is committed to ensuring that every teacher feels like part of a family, providing professional, friendly, and approachable staff that are available 24/7. This support system helps teachers not only succeed in their teaching jobs in the U.S. but also share their own cultures with their students and colleagues.

4. Teach USA

Teach USA provides experienced international educators with the opportunity to explore a new educational and cultural environment through full-time teaching positions in the United States. This program is a BridgeUSA cultural exchange program category that brings international teachers and U.S. schools together. While teachers find a chance to teach and immerse themselves in the American lifestyle for up to 5 years, U.S. schools enjoy the great benefits of diversified education with qualified international teachers in the classrooms.

Participants must have significant teaching experience, meet the educational standards of their intended U.S. state, and be proficient in English. The program aims to enrich education in the U.S. and participants’ home countries, emphasizing global educator collaboration and mutual understanding.

5. BridgeUSA

The BridgeUSA Program is an initiative under the US Department of State, designed to foster global understanding through educational and cultural exchanges. It offers international candidates the opportunity to gain valuable work and study experience in the U.S. The program includes the J-1 Teacher visa, a 3-year exchange visa for international teachers, which can be extended for up to 5 years.

Key Features of the BridgeUSA Program

• Administered by the US Department of State: The program includes 15 categories, providing diverse opportunities for international participants.
• Regulations and Resources: Specific regulations for the BridgeUSA Teacher Program can be found at 22 C.F.R §62.24. The Department of State also provides a welcome brochure and various resources on the official BridgeUSA Program website.
• Guidance Directives: The Department of State may issue directives to J-1 Visa sponsors at any time.

Benefits for International Teachers

• Cultural Exchange: Participants are expected to return to their home country upon completion of their program to share their experiences.
• Safety and Support: Organizations like Greenheart Exchange ensure that teachers are safe and well-supported during their stay in the U.S.

For more information, you can explore the official BridgeUSA Program website.

6. Department of State

The Department of State administers various programs to facilitate teaching jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship. This is primarily done through the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). The Department of State creates program regulations and ensures that sponsors, participants, and schools comply with these rules. They also communicate with sponsors to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of the participants.

The Department of State may issue Guidance Directives to J-1 Visa sponsors at any time. These directives are publicly available and provide clarity on the Exchange Visitor Program Regulations. For instance, specific regulations for the BridgeUSA Teacher Program can be found at 22 C.F.R §62.24.

To apply for a teaching job with visa sponsorship through the Department of State, applicants must follow these steps:

1. Find a sponsor: Applicants need to find a sponsor who is designated by the Department of State.
2. Submit documentation: Required documents include proof of a bachelor’s degree equivalent, teaching experience, and English proficiency.
3. Attend a U.S. Consulate/Embassy appointment: After making an appointment online, applicants attend an appointment at the U.S. Consulate or Embassy with the original DS-2019. Visa approval and issuance are at the discretion of the consular official.

The Department of State’s official website for the BridgeUSA Program provides a variety of resources, including a welcome brochure for teachers and up-to-date information on visa appointment and processing wait times.

7. GEC (Global Education Concepts)

GEC (Global Education Concepts) is a prominent organization that sponsors international teachers to work in the United States. They offer a variety of programs, including the Teach USA program, which helps teachers secure teaching jobs in the US with visa sponsorship. GEC can sponsor teachers in public schools across multiple states. If you have a job offer, you can begin your application with an eligibility verification form to determine if you are eligible. The average annual salary of GEC teachers ranges between $40,000 and $60,000, depending on factors such as education, prior teaching experience, and location.

To start an application, please click any APPLY button at GEC Teach USA.

8. J-1 Visa Program

The J-1 Visa Program offers visa sponsorship for qualified individuals to take up full-time paid teaching positions at accredited K-12 schools in the USA. This includes both private schools nationally and public schools in select states. The initial sponsorship is for up to three years, with an option to request an extension for an additional two years. Additionally, J-2 Dependent sponsorship is available for spouses or children to join the J-1 teacher.

Recipients of a J-1 visa can remain in the U.S. for the duration of their program, plus they may arrive 30 days prior and depart 30 days after the program ends. The J-1 Visa is a non-immigrant visa, which means it is granted on the basis that the individual is not attempting to remain permanently in the U.S.

Visa Application Process

The application process for a J-1 visa generally includes the following steps:

1. Find a sponsor recognized by the United States Department of State.
2. Submit the required documentation, which typically includes the DS-2019 and DS-7002 forms.
3. Pay the necessary visa application fees.
4. Schedule and attend a visa interview at a US Embassy or Consulate.

Options for expedited service guarantee that completed applications are evaluated in five business days. The program amendment fee is $250, while the transfer of program fee is $695. For expedited travel validation, the fee is $50 ($100 for expedited service). The J-2 dependent visa fee is $750, and the J-2 program and insurance fee is $90.

9. H-1B Visa Program

The H-1B visa program is a popular route for international teachers seeking employment in the United States. This nonimmigrant classification applies to individuals who wish to perform services in a specialty occupation, including teaching. The H-1B visa is subject to an annual cap and a competitive lottery system, with an initial duration of up to three years, extendable to a maximum of six years.

Application Process

1. The employer files a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the Department of Labor.
2. The employer then submits the Form I-129 to USCIS.
3. Once approved, the teacher applies for the visa through the US Embassy or Consulate in their home country.

Requirements

Foreign teachers applying for the H-1B visa must have a valid job offer from their U.S. employer. Additionally, they must possess a professional license if required by the state in which they will be teaching.

Benefits for Family Members

Spouses and children of H-1B holders may qualify for H-4 status, granting them benefits like Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), the option to attend school, potential resident tuition fees, and status change flexibility.

10. U.S. Primary and Secondary Schools

U.S. primary and secondary schools offer numerous opportunities for international teachers seeking visa sponsorship. These schools are often looking for qualified educators to fill various teaching positions, including those in science and English. To be eligible, candidates must meet several requirements:

1. Satisfy the teaching standards of the U.S. state in which they will teach.
2. Possess sufficient proficiency in the English language.
3. Be of good reputation and character.
4. Have a formal written offer from an accredited U.S. primary or secondary school.
5. Seek to enter the United States for the purpose of full-time teaching.

Teaching jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship are available through various programs, such as the J-1 Visa Program and the H-1B Visa Program. These programs help schools sponsor international teachers and provide them with the necessary support to adjust to U.S. teaching methods. For those interested in teaching assistant jobs or other educational roles, there are also opportunities available.

To apply for these positions, candidates typically need to file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, and meet specific eligibility requirements. For more information on available teaching jobs and how to apply, visit move2usajobs.com.

11. Accredited K-12 Schools

Accredited K-12 schools in the United States offer a range of teaching jobs with visa sponsorship. These schools meet or exceed state educational standards and are recognized for their commitment to educational excellence. To find an accredited host school, you can use registries such as Cognia. It’s important to confirm the accreditation status of a school before signing any employment offer letter or contract.

Visa Sponsorship

Accredited K-12 schools often provide visa sponsorship for international teachers. This means they will support the visa application process, making it easier for qualified educators to work in the U.S.

Teaching Jobs In the US

There are numerous teaching jobs in the USA available in accredited K-12 schools. These positions can range from elementary to high school levels and may include specialized subjects like science teaching jobs.

Teaching Jobs With Visa Sponsorship

Many accredited K-12 schools offer teaching jobs with visa sponsorship. This is particularly beneficial for international teachers looking to gain experience in the U.S. education system.

Teaching Assistant Jobs

In addition to full-time teaching positions, there are also opportunities for teaching assistant jobs in accredited K-12 schools. These roles can provide valuable experience and a pathway to becoming a full-time teacher.

English Teaching Jobs in USA

Accredited K-12 schools also offer English teaching jobs in the USA. These positions are ideal for educators specializing in English language instruction.

Science Teaching Jobs in USA

For those with a background in science, there are science teaching jobs in the USA available in accredited K-12 schools. These roles are crucial for fostering a strong foundation in scientific education among students.

12. Private Schools Nationally

Private schools across the United States offer numerous opportunities for international teachers seeking visa sponsorship. These schools range from accredited primary to secondary institutions, providing a diverse array of teaching positions. Many private schools are open to sponsoring international teachers, especially in hard-to-fill fields like science and mathematics.

Requirements

To be eligible for a teaching position in a private school, candidates must meet the following criteria:

1. Hold a valid teaching license or certification from their home country.
2. Obtain a formal, written offer from the private school outlining the terms and conditions of employment, including compensation and benefits.
3. Ensure the school is accredited and offers a position in grades Kindergarten through 12th grade.

How To Apply

Applying for a teaching position in a private school involves several steps:

1. Research and identify accredited private schools that offer visa sponsorship.
2. Submit an application, including a resume, cover letter, and any required documentation.
3. Attend interviews and provide any additional information requested by the school.
4. Upon receiving a job offer, work with the school to complete the visa sponsorship process.

Application Link

Most private schools have their own application portals. It is advisable to visit the school’s official website to find the specific application link and detailed instructions on how to apply.

13. Public Schools in Select States

Public schools in select states across the USA are actively seeking qualified teachers and are willing to offer visa sponsorship to attract international talent. This initiative is particularly crucial in addressing the ongoing teacher shortages and the need for educators with specific skills and qualifications. Some of the prominent school districts that sponsor H-1B visas include:

1. Dallas Independent School District
2. Camden City School District
3. Houston Independent School District
4. Wake County Public School System
5. Seattle Public Schools
6. District of Columbia Public Schools
7. San Francisco Unified School District
8. New York City Department of Education
9. Boston Public Schools
10. Fairfax County Public Schools
11. Miami-Dade County Public Schools
12. Montgomery County Public Schools
13. Los Angeles Unified School District
14. Chicago Public Schools
15. Orange Unified School District

These districts are part of various teaching programs that focus on promoting cultural exchange and mutual enrichment between teachers from different countries and American school communities. To apply for these positions, candidates typically need to meet specific requirements, including holding a valid teaching license and having relevant teaching experience. The application process often involves submitting an eligibility verification form and completing an online application through the respective school district’s website.

14. Teach in the USA Program

The Teach in the USA Program offers experienced international educators the opportunity to explore a new educational and cultural environment through full-time teaching positions in the United States. This program is part of the US Department of State’s BridgeUSA programming, which provides international candidates an opportunity to gain valuable work and study experience in the U.S.

Participants must have significant teaching experience, meet the educational standards of their intended U.S. state, and be proficient in English. The program aims to enrich education in the U.S. and participants’ home countries, emphasizing global educator collaboration and mutual understanding.

Visa Sponsorship

The Teach in the USA Program offers visa sponsorship through the J-1 Teacher visa, a 3-year exchange visa for international teachers coming to the U.S. to teach. This visa can be extended for an additional two years, allowing for a total of up to five years in the U.S.

Requirements

To qualify for the Teach in the USA Program, candidates must:

1. Possess a U.S. bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
2. Have a minimum of 2 years of teaching experience.
3. Meet the educational standards of the U.S. state where they intend to teach.
4. Be proficient in English.

How To Apply

Interested candidates can apply through the official BridgeUSA website. The application process typically involves submitting educational credentials, proof of teaching experience, and English proficiency test scores.

Application Link

For more information and to apply, visit the BridgeUSA Teach in the USA Program.

15. U.S. Teaching License Assistance

Navigating the process of obtaining a U.S. teaching license can be challenging, especially for international teachers. Various programs and resources are available to assist educators in meeting the necessary requirements. One such resource is the Global Educators Certification Scholarship, which offers a $500 benefit to support and empower international educators who aim to obtain their U.S. teaching license.

To qualify for a U.S. teaching license, candidates typically need to:

1. Have a minimum of 2 years teaching or related professional experience.
2. Satisfy the teaching eligibility standards of the U.S. state in which they will teach, including any required criminal background checks.
3. Be of good reputation and character.
4. Possess sufficient proficiency in the English language.
5. Obtain a formal written offer from an accredited U.S. primary or secondary school.

For those ready to apply, the Arizona Department of Education provides an online application for the international teaching certificate. Additionally, candidates can use the application to extend an international teaching certificate if needed.

Many American-sponsored schools overseas contract with private organizations in the United States to assist in the professional staff recruitment process, making it easier for international teachers to find opportunities. Utilizing job boards for sponsorship jobs in specific industries can also streamline the visa application process, such as the EB-3 visa.

16. U.S. School Districts

Several U.S. school districts are actively sponsoring H-1B visas for teachers, especially in response to the ongoing teacher shortages and the need for educators with specific skills and qualifications. For instance:

1. Dallas Independent School District
2. Camden City School District
3. Houston Independent School District
4. Wake County Public School System
5. Seattle Public Schools
6. District of Columbia Public Schools
7. San Francisco Unified School District
8. New York City Department of Education
9. Boston Public Schools
10. Fairfax County Public Schools
11. Miami-Dade County Public Schools
12. Montgomery County Public Schools
13. Los Angeles Unified School District
14. Chicago Public Schools
15. Orange Unified School District

Additionally, public school districts may be considered cap-exempt if they provide evidence of a formal written affiliation agreement with an institution of higher education. This agreement should establish an active working relationship for the purposes of research or education. Documents like a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and evidence of nonprofit status and working relationships are essential.

17. International Teacher Exchange Programs

International Teacher Exchange Programs offer a unique opportunity for educators from around the world to teach in U.S. schools. These programs are designed to promote cultural exchange and enhance the educational experience for both teachers and students. Participants can gain valuable international experience, improve their teaching skills, and bring diverse perspectives to American classrooms.

Key Features of International Teacher Exchange Programs:

• Duration: Teachers may work in a U.S. school for up to 3 years, with the possibility of a 1 or 2-year extension.
• Eligibility: Participants must have significant teaching experience, a bachelor’s degree equivalent, and proficiency in English.
• Sponsorship: Teachers must find a sponsor who will screen them and issue the necessary documentation, such as the DS-2019 form.
• Accreditation: Host schools must be accredited and committed to supporting the exchange teachers.

Benefits for Schools and Teachers:

• Cultural Exchange: These programs enrich local schools and communities by bringing diverse cultural perspectives into the classroom.
• Professional Development: Teachers can enhance their skills and gain new teaching methods from their international experience.
• Support: Comprehensive guidance and support are provided to help teachers adjust to U.S. teaching methods and legal obligations.

Application Process:

1. Find a Sponsor: Identify an organization that can sponsor your visa and support your application.
2. Submit Documentation: Provide necessary documents, including proof of teaching experience and educational qualifications.
3. Attend an Interview: Participate in an interview with the sponsor to assess your eligibility and readiness for the program.
4. Receive DS-2019 Form: If approved, the sponsor will issue the DS-2019 form, which is required for the J-1 visa application.
5. Apply for Visa: Submit your visa application to the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.

International Teacher Exchange Programs are mutually beneficial to all parties involved – teachers, students, host communities, and schools that sponsor international teachers. They provide a platform for teachers to expand their horizons and for students to benefit from enhanced cross-cultural learning experiences.

18. U.S. Teacher Visa Programs

The two primary types of visas that enable teachers to work in the USA are the J-1 visa and the H-1B visa. The J-1 visa is part of the Exchange Visitor Program, designed for educational and cultural exchange, and targets teachers specifically for short-term teaching opportunities. The H-1B visa is an employment-based, non-immigrant visa for temporary workers in specialized fields, including education.

Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility for a J-1 visa includes having at least two years of teaching experience and meeting other specific criteria. The H-1B visa requires sponsorship from a U.S. employer and is typically used for specialized teaching positions.

Application Process

1. Find a Sponsoring School: Schools can either have candidates in mind or seek assistance from organizations like Cultural Vistas.
2. Submit Required Documents: This includes educational qualifications, proof of teaching experience, and other necessary paperwork.
3. Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (DS-2019): This document is crucial for the J-1 visa application.
4. Apply for the Visa: Complete the visa application process, including an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.

Benefits and Support

• Relocation Assistance: Many programs offer relocation assistance, including support with housing and settling in.
• Visa Sponsorship: Organizations like Cultural Vistas and EPI provide visa sponsorship to qualified teachers.

Types of Teaching Jobs

• English Teaching Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship: Opportunities for teaching English in various educational settings.
• Science Teaching Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship: Specialized positions for teaching science subjects.
• Teaching Assistant Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship: Roles that support lead teachers in the classroom.

Teaching Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship Salary

Salaries for teaching jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship vary based on the type of school, location, and level of experience. Generally, salaries range from $40,000 to $70,000 per year.

Teaching Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners

Foreign teachers can find numerous opportunities in the USA, especially through programs like the J-1 and H-1B visas. These programs are designed to bring international talent to U.S. schools, enriching the educational experience for students.

Teaching Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship from India

Indian teachers looking to work in the USA can benefit from visa sponsorship programs. These programs facilitate the hiring process and provide necessary support for relocation and settling in.

19. U.S. Teacher Licensing Requirements

To become a licensed teacher in the United States, there are several key requirements that must be met. Generally, prek-12 public school teachers are required to hold a license. This process typically involves obtaining an undergraduate degree that includes completing a teacher preparation program, ultimately leading to licensure from your state’s board of education. Public school teachers traditionally need to complete college coursework, take a certification exam, and provide references and comparable documentation to demonstrate their qualifications.

Basic Requirements

1. Educational Background: A degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree in either education or the academic subject field in which you intend to teach is required. This means that you can anticipate needing at least a bachelor’s degree and a teaching license.
2. Teaching Experience: A minimum of two years (24 months) of teaching experience at K-12 schools outside the USA is often required.
3. State Standards: Satisfy the standards of the U.S. state in which you will teach, including any required criminal background checks.
4. English Proficiency: Possess sufficient proficiency in the English language.
5. Character and Reputation: Be of good reputation and character.
6. Full-Time Teaching: Be seeking to enter the United States for the purpose of full-time teaching as a teacher of record at a primary (including pre-kindergarten) or secondary accredited educational institution in the United States.

Steps to Licensure

1. Complete a Teacher Preparation Program: This program is often part of your undergraduate degree and includes both coursework and student teaching experiences.
2. Pass Certification Exams: These exams test your knowledge of teaching practices and the subject area you plan to teach.
3. Submit Documentation: Provide references, transcripts, and other documentation to your state’s board of education.
4. Background Checks: Complete any required criminal background checks.
5. Apply for Licensure: Submit your application to the state’s board of education and pay any associated fees.

20. U.S. Teacher Relocation Assistance

Relocating to the USA for a teaching job can be a complex process, but many programs offer personalized relocation assistance to make the transition smoother. These services often include temporary and permanent housing assistance, travel assistance to the USA, and daily transportation planning. Additionally, teachers can benefit from legal assistance through the visa process and health insurance aid.

Key Services Provided

• Temporary and Permanent Housing Assistance: Programs like GEC help arrange temporary housing close to the host school until teachers are settled. Permanent housing options often include renting or sharing an apartment.
• Travel Assistance: Many programs offer travel assistance to the USA and local community, ensuring a smooth arrival.
• Legal Assistance: J-1 visa sponsorship provides legal work authorization in the United States, including support with housing and settling in.
• Health Insurance Aid: Assistance with acquiring health insurance is often provided to ensure teachers are covered.
• Daily Transportation Planning: Programs help with planning daily transportation needs, making it easier for teachers to commute.

Financial Support

• Competitive Salary: Teachers receive a full-time salary from the host school, which helps cover living expenses such as housing, food, and transportation.
• Interest-Free Relocation Loan: Some programs offer interest-free loans to help with initial relocation costs.

Additional Support

• Pre-Arrival Orientation: Orientation sessions before arrival help teachers understand what to expect and prepare for their new environment.
• EPI Arrival Orientation and District Onboarding: Programs like EPI provide arrival orientation and onboarding to help teachers integrate into their new schools.
• Assistance Acquiring a US Teaching License: Support is often available to help teachers obtain the necessary teaching licenses in the USA.
• Ongoing Instructional Support: Continuous support is provided to help teachers succeed in their new roles.

Are you a U.S. teacher looking to relocate? Our comprehensive relocation assistance program is here to help you every step of the way. From finding the best job openings to settling into your new community, we’ve got you covered. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make your move seamless and stress-free. Visit our website to learn more and get started today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the eligibility requirements to teach in the USA?

All Teach USA applicants must meet the qualifications for teaching at the primary or secondary levels in schools in their country of nationality, have a degree equivalent to a 4-year U.S. bachelor’s degree in Education or the academic subject field in which they intend to teach, and have a minimum of 2 years teaching or related professional experience.

Is there an age limit to apply for teaching jobs in the USA?

No, there is no age limit to apply to the Teach USA program as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.

Do I have to pay a fee to participate in the Teach USA program?

GEC does not charge teachers a sponsorship (program) fee or a placement fee to participate in our program. However, there are some direct costs associated with the visa application process that you will be responsible for.

What types of visas are available for teachers in the USA?

The two primary types of visas that enable teachers to work in the USA are the J-1 visa and the H-1B visa.

What support does EPI offer to international teachers?

EPI offers a range of support including J Visa Sponsorship, legal assistance through the visa process, pre-arrival orientation, travel assistance, temporary and permanent housing assistance, personalized relocation assistance, banking assistance, interest-free relocation loan, daily transportation planning, health insurance aid, assistance acquiring a US teaching license, and ongoing instructional support.

Can my family join me if I get a teaching job in the USA?

Yes, J-2 Dependent sponsorship is available for spouse or children to join J-1 teachers.

What does Cultural Vistas offer?

Cultural Vistas, as a BridgeUSA sponsor, is responsible for administering exchange programs in compliance with the U.S. Department of State’s public diplomacy goals and visa requirements. They can offer visa sponsorship to schools that already have candidates in mind or assist schools that are seeking international candidates.

What is the duration of the J-1 visa sponsorship?

The J-1 visa sponsorship is available for up to three years for qualified individuals for full-time paid teaching positions at accredited K-12 schools. There is also an option to request an extension for an additional two years.