Can I travel between states as an Au Pair during my time off?

Participating in an au pair program in the United States as a J-1 visa holder is an enriching experience, not only culturally but also in terms of personal development. Within this context, it is natural to have questions about the possibility of traveling around the country during your free time.

In general terms, the J-1 visa allows you to use your days off to explore different regions and states of the United States, provided that the trips do not interfere with your obligations to the host family and program commitments. In other words, if your travel during time off does not affect your agreed responsibilities, it is permitted. However, it is essential to carry all valid documentation – passport, DS-2019, and other required documents – to avoid issues during inspections.

Moreover, maintaining transparent communication with your sponsor and host family about your travel plans is fundamental for alignment and compliance with program guidelines. Avoid making unfounded promises about immigration processes and respect the laws to ensure a safe and trouble-free experience.

Seek information from reliable sources, such as sponsors or official agencies, to ensure you are aware of your responsibilities and permissions, thus enjoying your time off safely and enriching your cultural experience in the U.S.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.