The Complete Setup Guide for J1 Work and Travel Participants

May 2026 · 6 min read · For J1 Work and Travel visa holders arriving in the US

You've landed in the US. You have your DS-2019, your passport, and probably a lot of questions. The first few days are overwhelming — new place, new people, and a long list of things you need to set up before you can properly get started.

This guide covers everything you need to do, in the order you should do it. We've been through this process and know exactly where people get stuck.

Before you read on: Almost everything on this list will ask you to verify your identity or account with a US phone number via SMS. If you don't have a US number yet, that's the first thing to sort — keep reading.

Day 1 — The essentials

STEP 1

Get a US phone number Do this first

Before anything else, you need a way to receive SMS verification codes with a US number. Almost every app and service you sign up for will ask for one. You have two options: buy a US SIM card, or use a virtual number service. A virtual number is faster and cheaper for the first few days while you get settled. You can use Verifon to get a real US number instantly — no contract, no ID, free for the first 15 minutes.

STEP 2

Activate your DS-2019 and check in with your sponsor Day 1

Your sponsor organization (CIEE, InterExchange, Cultural Care, etc.) needs to know you've arrived. Log into their portal and complete the check-in process. Most portals require a US phone number for account verification.

STEP 3

Apply for a Social Security Number First week

You need an SSN to work legally in the US and to file taxes at the end of the season. Find your nearest Social Security Administration office and bring your passport, DS-2019, and proof of employment (a letter from your employer works). Processing takes 2-4 weeks so apply early.

First week — Money and banking

STEP 4

Open a US bank account First week

Most employers pay by direct deposit or check, so you need a US bank account. Chase and Bank of America are the most widely available. You'll need your passport, your DS-2019, and your US address. Some banks also require a US phone number to set up online banking — have yours ready.

STEP 5

Set up Venmo First week

Venmo is how everyone splits bills, pays for food, and settles up after trips. Download the app, create an account with your US number, and link your bank account or debit card. Your coworkers will almost certainly ask for your Venmo handle within the first few days.

STEP 6

Download Uber and set up transport First week

Depending on where you're working, public transport may be limited. Uber and Lyft require a US phone number for verification. Set both up early and link a payment method.

Need a US number for all of this?

Verifon gives you a real US phone number in seconds. Use it to verify Venmo, Uber, your bank app, your sponsor portal and more. No contract, no ID required. First 15 minutes free.

Get your US number free →

First month — Getting settled

STEP 7

Get a US SIM card First month

Once you've settled in, get a permanent US number. Mint Mobile, T-Mobile and AT&T all offer prepaid plans starting around $15-25/month. This gives you a real number for calls and texts, not just verification. Bring your passport to any store or order online.

STEP 8

Set up Discord and stay connected First month

Most J1 participant groups organize on Discord. It's free, works on any device, and requires a US number to verify your account if prompted. Once set up, join groups for your area, your employer, and the broader J1 community — they're invaluable for tips, trips and support.

STEP 9

Understand your taxes from the start Throughout

Keep every pay stub and tax document you receive. J1 participants on Work and Travel visas are considered non-residents for tax purposes, which means you file Form 1040-NR at the end of the year. You may be entitled to a refund. Read our full guide to filing US taxes as a non-resident to understand what to expect.

Useful apps to have from day one

Venmo — payments between people
Uber / Lyft — transport
Google Maps — navigation, no US number needed
Discord — community and group chats
Duolingo — optional, but useful if English isn't your first language
Weather app — US weather can change fast depending on the state
Splitwise — splitting costs with housemates

Common mistakes to avoid

Don't wait until the last week to apply for your SSN — it takes weeks to arrive and you need it for taxes.
Don't give your personal number to every app — use a dedicated number for verifications to protect your privacy.
Don't ignore your tax obligations — even if you only worked for one summer, you are required to file.
Don't keep large amounts of cash — set up your bank account and Venmo early so you don't need to carry cash.

Requirements and app availability change over time. This guide reflects the situation as of May 2026. Always check official sources for the most current visa and tax requirements.