HOSPITALITY INTERNSHIPS IN THE USA
Imagine working in a hotel with 15,000 guests in Las Vegas, or Miami and being part of some of the biggest and best hotels and resorts in the world. YDP’s Hospitality Internship / Professional Career Training in America programme is an excellent work and study opportunity for students, recent graduates and those with five or more years work experience in the hospitality industry. Spend between six and twelve months enjoying work overseas in in the USA, gaining practical work experience. Should you already have arranged your USA internship independently, YDP will facilitate your entire visa process. We are industry leaders in hospitality internships and professional career training having been facilitating these programmes for over 10 years. We also work with some of the most prestigious hotels and resorts in America. These include, but are not limited to, The Hilton, Luxury Resorts, The Marriott, The Radisson, Inter Continental, Ritz Carlton and many other private and exclusive brands that will provide you with the best working holidays.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- You must currently be enrolled as a full-time student at a recognised post-secondary institution outside of the USA, studying hospitality, tourism, culinary arts, or a related field. Only full-time, in-person studies will be considered.
- If you have recently completed your studies (as per point 1) and have less than one year of relevant work experience, you must enter the USA within 12 months of the date on your qualification.
- If you graduated more than 12 months ago, you will need to provide proof of at least one year of relevant work experience in your field of study. This may include practical training or formal employment.
- If you do not hold a formal qualification, you may still qualify if you can demonstrate a minimum of five years’ work experience in a hospitality-related role outside of the United States.
Additional Requirements
- Applicants must be between:
- 19–35 years old (Intern programme)
- 19–30 years old (Trainee programme)
- A good level of English proficiency is required
- Open to South African, Namibian, and selected other African passport holders
- Applicants must have sufficient funds to cover travel costs
- Ability to manage personal finances for daily expenses while in the USA
- Must be hardworking, reliable, and committed to completing a 12-month programme
- A genuine interest in the hospitality industry
- Applicants should be in good health and must disclose any existing or previous medical conditions.
YDP Work&Travel is proud to be working hand in hand with our international partner to offer young South Africans the opportunity to work in the USA for 1 year on a hospitality internship program at leading resorts and hotels throughout the USA.
Take a look at this youtube video that shows a live webinar we had where we hosted our US partner & SA hotel students to chat about this program.
This video will help you understand how the program works & what to expect when you get to the USA.
Included in the programme fee
- Health, accident and liability insurance for the duration of the programme (maximum of 12 months)
- All processing costs in South Africa and the USA
- Application, interview and placement
- Visa application assistance for DS-2019 (J-1 internship visa) for a 12 month duration with the America Consulate
- Pre-departure orientation
- Participant handbook and guide
- Accommodation assistance
- Online Tax-back application assistance
- Assistance and emergency service through the USA based partner for the full duration of the programme
- US SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) Fee of $180
Earnings
Remuneration for the hospitality programme in America is based on the applicant’s experience and varies from position to position. Expect to earn between USD 1 000 and USD 3 000 per month. Generally the lesser paid internships offer perks such as free housing etc.
Working conditions
Trainees will be required to follow a structured training plan while participating in the programme with 32 hours of work per week and 2 days off per week. Overtime will be paid for over 45 hours worked.
How
APPLICATION & PROCESSING
You will need to Submit the application documentation and application fee to YDP. You will then participate in an interview with our American Partner .YDP Partner will commence your internship negotiations
CONFIRMATION & PAYMENT
YDP Partner will arrange an interview for you with a potential Host Organisation after which the internship will be confirmed through a formal Training Agreement at which point, the final fee will be paid.
PROGRAM PARTICIPATION
You will then be about to embark on an incredible journey. Your program will commence with an orientation. Once you begin your internship, YDP will be asking for your continued feedback and provide you with ongoing support
YDP Partner will negotiate with Immigration regarding visa processing (8 – 10 weeks) for the 402 visa. Or you can make alternative arrangements.
To ensure that you have the best internship possible arranged for you please apply 4 – 6 months prior to your intended internship start date.
Follow the below timelines as a guide:
Stage 1 Enquiry & Assessment Up to 2 week
Stage 2: Application & Processing 6 – 8 weeks
Stage 3: Confirmation & Payment 6 – 8 weeks
Stage 4: Visa Arrangements 8 – 10 weeks
Stage 5: Program Participation 6, 9 or 12 months
Costs involved
| PRODUCT | PRICE | |
| 1. | Once off YDP registration fee | R 500.00 |
| 2. |
Programme Fee (Including application, all interviews & placement) |
USD $700 |
| 3. |
Acceptance Fee (Including, DS Forms, Visa,Sevis & Health Insurance) |
USD $600 |
| 4 |
International Return Airfares and local transport to your destination |
At your own cost |
| 5. |
Spending Money (Before first paycheck) |
USD $1000 |
Example of Monthly Earnings & Expenses
Based on an average of 32 hours per week (although most participants typically work closer to 40 hours per week over time):
- Estimated earnings:
$16 per hour × 32 hours per week = $512 per week
$512 × 4 weeks = approximately $2,048 per month - Estimated accommodation costs:
Between $300 and $600 per month
If you would like to apply for this program, please click here to see if you meet the requirements and we will be in touch with you.
“I really want to thank Ydp for the the hard work putting together this amazing opportunity for us as youth. I’m employed by the organisation name Kiawah island resort. Which is phenomanily beautiful on its own, I work in the food and beverage department and although I’m at the beginning phase with this department I feel that I’ve leaned alot even at this stage , My career life has taken a complete u turn heading straight to the Top.”
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