Participation Agreement/Code of Conduct Summer Work & Travel
The purpose of International Educational Exchange’s (IEE) Summer Work and Travel Program is to provide foreign nationals with opportunities to participate in work based and cultural programs in the United States and return home to share their experiences. The program is designed to strengthen international understanding by creating an opportunity for both the participant and the employer to increase their knowledge of diverse cultures and business practices. IEE, Inc. is dedicated to providing meaningful programs and cultural experiences to our participants. In order ensure that your program meets your expectations and professional goals, and to ensure that you have been fully prepared for your program, we have prepared this pre-arrival acknowledgement form for each participant to complete as part of your required documents. This form must be returned to us prior to your arrival to the United States. If you have not been provided with any of the following information, please contact your IEE representative immediately.
All sponsorships from IEE are approved based on pre-arranged employment prior to entering the United States. By signing this participation agreement, you are acknowledging you understand that if you leave your host employer and accept alternative employment without prior approval from IEE, your program will be immediately terminated and you will be required to return home immediately.
I certify that I have read, understand and agree to comply with the following, understanding that failure to comply could result in my program termination.
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If I am terminated by either IEE or my Host organization due to failure to comply with host employer rules and regulations, or rules and regulations
If I am terminated by either IEE or my Host organization due to failure to comply with host employer rules and regulations, or rules and regulations set forth by IEE or the Department of State, my program will be terminated and I will be required to return to my home country immediately.
Program Termination:
Termination of program participation: Participant acknowledges that their program may be terminated for (but not limited to) the following conditions: A sponsor shall terminate an exchange visitor's participation in its program when the exchange visitor:(1) Fails to pursue the activities for which he or she was admitted to the United States;(2) Is unable to continue, unless otherwise exempted pursuant to these regulations;(3) Violates the Exchange Visitor Program regulations and/or the sponsor's rules governing the program, if, in the sponsor's opinion, termination is warranted;(4) Willfully fails to maintain the insurance coverage required under § 62.14 of the regulations; or(b) An exchange visitor's participation in the Exchange Visitor Program is subject to termination when he or she engages in unauthorized employment. IEE expects our participants to be kind and courteous to our staff at all times. Rude and disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated and could result in termination of your program. As your visa sponsor, we will be required to terminate the programs of participants who fail to comply with enumerated program regulations (i.e., reporting their arrivals, reporting changes of residence, starting work at unverified/vetted jobs by Sponsor, responding to sponsor monthly outreach/monitoring efforts). Upon establishing such violation, the Department of State shall terminate the exchange visitor's participation in the Exchange Visitor Program. If terminated, participant must leave the country immediately.
Note: If IEE determines your host employer is not fulfilling their obligation of the exchange program, we reserve the right to end the program. Depending on the circumstances, IEE will do our best to find another appropriate host organization for you; however, this cannot be guaranteed.
•I agree that I will remain in employment with my pre-arranged host employer until the end of my program (date listed on your DS-2019 form) unless authorized to change by IEE.
I agree that I will remain in employment with my pre-arranged host employer until the end of my program (date listed on your DS-2019 form) unless authorized to change by IEE. •I must submit my contact and arrival information to IEE, Inc. within 48 hours of arriving in the United States. I understand that failure to do so could result in me falling into a “no-show” status, which will cause serious consequences for me.
I must submit my contact and arrival information to IEE, Inc. within 48 hours of arriving in the United States. I understand that failure to do so could result in me falling into a “no-show” status, which will cause serious consequences for me.•I must report to the host organization site on or before the date listed on my DS-2019 form.
I must report to the host organization site on or before the date listed on my DS-2019 form.•Should my employment be terminated for any reason, I need to notify International Educational Exchange within 24 hours.
Should my employment be terminated for any reason, I need to notify International Educational Exchange within 24 hours. •I understand that I must be covered by health and accident insurance, at minimum levels or better as determined by the Federal Regulations concerning the J-1 Exchange Visitor visa, during the entire length of the program.
I understand that I must be covered by health and accident insurance, at minimum levels or better as determined by the Federal Regulations concerning the J-1 Exchange Visitor visa, during the entire length of the program.•I agree to abide by all U.S. laws and regulations governing exchange visitors while residing in the United States, and to abide by the rules and regulations of International Educational Exchange’s exchange Program. Failure to do so could result in termination of my program. Examples of reasons for termination: 1) Convicted of a crime, 2) Disciplinary action, 3) Engaging in unauthorized employment, 4) Failure to maintain health insurance, 5) Failure to pursue EV program activities, 6) Failure to submit change of current address to Sponsor within 5 days, 7) Involuntary suspension of program, 8) Violating Exchange Visitor program regulations, and 9) Violating sponsor rules governing the program.
I agree to abide by all U.S. laws and regulations governing exchange visitors while residing in the United States, and to abide by the rules and regulations of International Educational Exchange’s exchange Program. Failure to do so could result in termination of my program. Examples of reasons for termination: 1) Convicted of a crime, 2) Disciplinary action, 3) Engaging in unauthorized employment, 4) Failure to maintain health insurance, 5) Failure to pursue EV program activities, 6) Failure to submit change of current address to Sponsor within 5 days, 7) Involuntary suspension of program, 8) Violating Exchange Visitor program regulations, and 9) Violating sponsor rules governing the program.•I agree that I will abide by the terms of the stated agreement and Contracts established by International Educational Exchange and the host company, and will only remain in the U.S. for an agreed upon period of time.
I agree that I will abide by the terms of the stated agreement and Contracts established by International Educational Exchange and the host company, and will only remain in the U.S. for an agreed upon period of time.•I agree not to pursue a change in visa category/status during or upon completion of my program.
I agree not to pursue a change in visa category/status during or upon completion of my program.•I understand that I must depart the U.S. on or before the last day I am authorized to be in the U.S. based on the specified end date on my arrival/departure record I-94 form and DS-2019 form which is to be no longer than 30 days after the completion of my program. I understand that staying past the period of time authorized by the DHS will cause me to be out-of-status in the United States, which is a violation of U.S. immigration laws. I understand that this may cause me to be ineligible for future visa issuances for return travel to the U.S.
I understand that I must depart the U.S. on or before the last day I am authorized to be in the U.S. based on the specified end date on my arrival/departure record I-94 form and DS-2019 form which is to be no longer than 30 days after the completion of my program. I understand that staying past the period of time authorized by the DHS will cause me to be out-of-status in the United States, which is a violation of U.S. immigration laws. I understand that this may cause me to be ineligible for future visa issuances for return travel to the U.S.•I agree that I will return to my home country in order to begin my studies when the school semester starts. I understand that my University is not authorized to give me permission to start my studies late, I must return at the beginning of the school semester.
I agree that I will return to my home country in order to begin my studies when the school semester starts. I understand that my University is not authorized to give me permission to start my studies late, I must return at the beginning of the school semester.•I understand that my position could possibly change either before my arrival (in which I will be notified) or during my program, depending on the needs of the employer.
I understand that my position could possibly change either before my arrival (in which I will be notified) or during my program, depending on the needs of the employer.•I certify that I have thoroughly researched my program location and host employer. Based on my personal research, I have accepted the job with full knowledge of the area and the type of employer that will host my program. I understand that IEE does not approve host organization transfers except under extreme circumstances and no transfer can be secured without IEE’s approval.
I certify that I have thoroughly researched my program location and host employer. Based on my personal research, I have accepted the job with full knowledge of the area and the type of employer that will host my program. I understand that IEE does not approve host organization transfers except under extreme circumstances and no transfer can be secured without IEE’s approval.•I understand that if my DS-2019 form is lost or stolen, a fee of $250.00 + postage and handling will be required for a new DS-2019 form.
I understand that if my DS-2019 form is lost or stolen, a fee of $250.00 + postage and handling will be required for a new DS-2019 form.•I understand that if it is necessary for me to leave the country during my program that I will need to submit my DS-2019 to my sponsor for travel validation. A fee of $50 will be required along with a letter from my human resources department indicating I am eligible to travel and the dates will be expected to be away.
I understand that if it is necessary for me to leave the country during my program that I will need to submit my DS-2019 to my sponsor for travel validation. A fee of $50 will be required along with a letter from my human resources department indicating I am eligible to travel and the dates will be expected to be away.•I understand that if my contact details change while in the United States (change in apartment, phone number or host organization) I am required to notify IEE within 24 hours to report my new contact details. This is a matter of national security. Failure to comply will result in program termination and my immediate return to my home country.
I understand that if my contact details change while in the United States (change in apartment, phone number or host organization) I am required to notify IEE within 24 hours to report my new contact details. This is a matter of national security. Failure to comply will result in program termination and my immediate return to my home country.•In case of a visa denial, I understand that I must return my DS2019 form to IEE within 10 business days of denial in order to receive a refund. Failure to submit the un-used DS-2019 form within 10 business days will result in forfeiture of your denial refund. I understand that no refunds are issued after I have arrived in the United States.
In case of a visa denial, I understand that I must return my DS2019 form to IEE within 10 business days of denial in order to receive a refund. Failure to submit the un-used DS-2019 form within 10 business days will result in forfeiture of your denial refund. I understand that no refunds are issued after I have arrived in the United States.•I understand that IEE will send me important information through the email address I provided with my application. I agree to check my email at least once a week for important communication from IEE. If I change my primary email address, I agree to contact IEE immediately to update my contact information. I understand that failure to respond to communication sent to me by my sponsor will result in termination of my program.
I understand that IEE will send me important information through the email address I provided with my application. I agree to check my email at least once a week for important communication from IEE. If I change my primary email address, I agree to contact IEE immediately to update my contact information. I understand that failure to respond to communication sent to me by my sponsor will result in termination of my program.•I acknowledge that I have been advised of my salary amount prior to accepting my job offer.
I acknowledge that I have been advised of my salary amount prior to accepting my job offer.•I acknowledge that International Educational Exchange has provided me with complete orientation information prior to my arrival in the United States.
I acknowledge that International Educational Exchange has provided me with complete orientation information prior to my arrival in the United States.•I understand that second jobs are permitted on this program. I fully understand that I am NOT to accept secondary employment without prior approval from IEE. I understand that accepting unauthorized employment is in violation of the program and I understand that this could result in immediate program termination.
I understand that second jobs are permitted on this program. I fully understand that I am NOT to accept secondary employment without prior approval from IEE. I understand that accepting unauthorized employment is in violation of the program and I understand that this could result in immediate program termination.• I understand that my employer may require that I take a drug test upon arrival. I understand that if I fail the drug test, I may be required to return home immediately and forfeit my summer work and travel program.
•I understand that I am not to take any advice about my program from anyone other than IEE.
I understand that I am not to take any advice about my program from anyone other than IEE.I certify that I have been provided with the following information:
•The purpose of the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program
The purpose of the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program•An overview of the J-1 Program
An overview of the J-1 Program•SEVIS information
SEVIS information•Instructions for travel and entry into the United States
Instructions for travel and entry into the United States•Instructions for locating and securing housing (if not pre-arranged/provided by host employer)
Instructions for locating and securing housing (if not pre-arranged/provided by host employer)•Expected living expenses and other costs likely incurred during program
Expected living expenses and other costs likely incurred during program•Life and customs in the United States
Life and customs in the United States•How to access local community resources and public services
How to access local community resources and public services•Available healthcare
Available healthcare•Safety information
Safety information•Rules and guidelines that I am expected to follow while participating in the J-1 Program sponsored by IEE, Inc.
Rules and guidelines that I am expected to follow while participating in the J-1 Program sponsored by IEE, Inc.•Emergency contact information for IEE, Inc.
Emergency contact information for IEE, Inc.•Address and telephone number of IEE’s Responsible or Alternate Responsible Officer (to be used for ANY and ALL issues related to your exchange visitor program)
Address and telephone number of IEE’s Responsible or Alternate Responsible Officer (to be used for ANY and ALL issues related to your exchange visitor program)•Address and telephone number of Exchange Visitor Program Services of the United States Department of State
Address and telephone number of Exchange Visitor Program Services of the United States Department of StateMonthly Check-In Requirement:
As part of the SWT program regulations, you will be required to contact IEE at a minimum, once a month. Failure to check in will result in program suspension or termination. Note: IEE will not accept any excuses for not checking in monthly. That includes: 1. “I was too busy” 2. “My internet was not working” 3. “I lost your phone number” 4. “I forgot” 5. “I didn’t get your email”, etc. It is your responsibility to contact IEE monthly!
Second Job Requirement:
The SWT program regulations will allow participants to secure second job placements. There are very specific requirements regarding your second job placement that must be followed. Failure to follow these guidelines will result in your program being cancelled.
1.You may not start working your second job until the employer has been fully vetted by IEE. You must contact IEE prior to starting your second job to ensure that the placement is appropriate for this program. Please note: Per the SWT regulations, your participation in the SWT program is subject to termination when you engage in unauthorized employment. So do not do this !
You may not start working your second job until the employer has been fully vetted by IEE. You must contact IEE prior to starting your second job to ensure that the placement is appropriate for this program. Please note: Per the SWT regulations, your participation in the SWT program is subject to termination when you engage in unauthorized employment. So do not do this !2.Your second job does not interfere in any way with your first and primary job.
Your second job does not interfere in any way with your first and primary job.3.You may not request a set schedule from your primary employer in order to satisfy the schedule of your second employer.
You may not request a set schedule from your primary employer in order to satisfy the schedule of your second employer.4.You may not randomly quit your job from your primary employer just because you like your second employer better. There are very strict considerations taken when leaving your primary employer – considerations that only IEE can approve. Leaving your primary employer without prior approval from IEE could result in program termination.
You may not randomly quit your job from your primary employer just because you like your second employer better. There are very strict considerations taken when leaving your primary employer – considerations that only IEE can approve. Leaving your primary employer without prior approval from IEE could result in program termination.5.Should it be deemed by IEE that transferring to another primary employer is acceptable, you will be charged a $250.00 employer transfer fee. This must be paid in advance of starting with your new primary employer. NOTE: This is only approved in extreme circumstances, so do assume changing primary employers is a simple task.
Should it be deemed by IEE that transferring to another primary employer is acceptable, you will be charged a $250.00 employer transfer fee. This must be paid in advance of starting with your new primary employer. NOTE: This is only approved in extreme circumstances, so do assume changing primary employers is a simple task. If you have questions regarding this section, you need to discuss with an IEE representative. Do not take advice from others when considering taking a second job. Chances are they are giving you incorrect information that could result in your program termination.
Note: If you have any questions about your SWT program, location of your SWT program or permitted activity while on your SWT program, you should contact IEE prior to accepting your placement or your travel to the United States. If you are using an agency in your home country to assist you prepare for your SWT program and you have any questions regarding information they may have told you, please contact IEE to verify what you have been told. Your agency is there to assist you but is not responsible for your program when you arrive, so it is important that you understand your obligations and what may or may not be allowed prior to your arrival. Please do not accept a job offer just to get to the United States and think that you will be able to transfer to another location once you have arrived. This will not be approved.
Refunds
In case of a visa denial, I understand that I must return my DS2019 form to IEE within 10 business days of denial in order to receive a refund. Failure to submit the un-used DS-2019 form within 10 business days will result in forfeiture of my denial refund.
I understand that no refunds are issued after I have arrived in the United States. Additionally, should my program is suddenly terminated for any reason (to include but not limited to, natural disaster, pandemic or business interruption from my host employer) there will be no refund of program fees or any other miscellaneous fees paid to IEE.
Funds withheld if program is cancelled by Sponsor or ECA: $250.00
Funds withheld if Exchange Visitor withdraws from the program prior to DS issue: $250.00
Funds withheld if Exchange Visitor withdraws from program after DS issue: $350.00
Funds withheld if due to lack of sponsor-approved job placement – If either the host employer cancels or no job placement can be pre-arranged: $350.00
Funds withheld due to visa denial: $350.00
Miscellaneous:
I understand that IEE recommends that I purchase trip interruption/cancellation insurance for the duration of my program and an airline ticket that allows at least one free/low cost change.
I confirm that I, at a minimum, will have available funds in the amount of $1,000 during my program and that I can immediately access these funds throughout my program and time in the U.S. in the event that they are required for any reason.
I agree that IEE is my main point of contact during my program and that I will be required to follow all instructions from my sponsor, not my home country agency, as it relates to my program.
I understand that I am responsible for all medical insurance coverage expenses should I enter the U.S. prior to my program start date as well as any time during my program. I also understand that IEE strongly recommends that I purchase additional insurance coverage during my 30 day grace period.
I understand that I will have 2 weeks to find a new program-compliant job should local or state health orders interrupt my employment. If I am unable to find a job within this time, I understand that I may need to return home. I also understand that I will be responsible for my own expenses during this period to include rent payments, food, or any other necessities I may require prior to my departure.
I understand that I am participating in this program at-will and that I will not be entitled to any loss of wages from IEE due to being terminated by my host organization or my sponsor. I also understand that I will not be entitled to loss of wages should my program end due to any natural disaster, pandemic or business interruption of my host employer.
I understand that IEE is not able to provide me with any financial or legal assistance before, during or after my program dates.
I understand that I will only receive compensation from my host employer for hours worked. Should my employment end with them for any reason, only compensation earned based on hours worked will be received.
Dispute Resolution: In the unlikely event that a dispute arises relating to this engagement or our company's services or fees, the parties agree to attempt to resolve the dispute through informal discussions. If those discussions do not resolve the matter, the parties agree to submit the dispute to final, binding arbitration before a single arbitrator. The arbitrator shall decide any issue of the breach, termination, enforcement, interpretation, or validity of this agreement, including the scope or applicability of the agreement to arbitrate. IEE and Trainee understand that such arbitration shall be final and binding, and that by agreeing to arbitration, both IEE and Trainee are waiving their respective rights to seek remedies in court, including the right to a jury trial and certain rights of appeal. Any arbitration shall take place in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.
The parties agree that the dispute resolution proceedings under this provision shall remain confidential, except as necessary to seek provisional remedies in court in aid of arbitration or to enforce any arbitration award. The arbitrator’s fees shall be shared equally by the parties. Except where applicable law forbids it, the prevailing party shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorney’s fees and costs, if any, from the other party.
I certify that I understand the IEE Inc. is my J-1 visa sponsor and primary contact while in the United States. I understand that if I have any questions or concerns regarding my J-1 program that I am to contact IEE Inc. immediately. By signing below, I agree to the conditions stated above and agree to abide to the obligations and responsibilities as stated above. IEE will not continue its sponsorship of any participant who does not abide by the spirit of the J-1 exchange visitor program.
Departing the U.S.: At the end of your program, you will be required to submit a copy of your airline ticket to IEE showing your departure from the U.S. prior to your departure. Failure to provide a copy of your return ticket home could result in your program status being changed to terminated.
I understand that IEE will not continue its sponsorship of any participant who does not abide by the spirit of the J-1 Work and Travel Program.
By submitting below, I agree to the conditions stated above and agree to abide to the obligations and responsibilities as stated above.
