Chicago Summer J1 Visa Resource Guide & Frequently Asked Questions
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Chicago Summer J1 Visa
Resource Guide & Frequently Asked Questions
Updated May 2019
1
Contents Page
Introduction 3
Chicago 3
Staying Safe 3
Accommodation 4
Visa Regulations 4
Passports & Documentation 5
Emergency Services in Chicago 5
Social Security 5
Departure Information 6
Do’s & Don’ts 7
Frequently Asked Questions 7
Useful Contacts 13
2Introduction:
Traveling to live and work in Chicago for a summer is the experience of a lifetime. Many J1
visitors create fond memories and make lifelong friends on their J1 visa. This, however, does
not come without its challenges. For many J1 participants, this will be their first time living and
working abroad. Navigating a new city, complying with visa regulations, starting a new job, and
finding suitable accommodation can be daunting tasks. This informational packet is designed to
answer a few commonly asked questions and provide guidance and tips for J1 summer visitors.
Chicago:
• Chicago is a great city to spend the summer. Many neighborhoods have a relaxed
atmosphere with plenty of bars, restaurants, cafes and other places to socialize.
• The urban beaches along Lake Michigan are fabulous in the summer.
• Although Chicago is large its public transport system is well connected. The best value
option if you will be using public transport regularly is the Ventra card 30-day pass. They
are $105 and can be used for unlimited journeys on all buses and trains except the
Metra. A single ticket costs $2.50 whereas the Ventra 30-day pass works out at $3.50
(multiple rides) per day.
• Plenty of festivals take place in Chicago each year. Lollapalooza is on in August each year
at Grant Park. More information can be found on their website.
Staying Safe in Chicago:
• While you are still getting used to the city and finding your way around, exercise
precautions. Downtown is generally safe but you should always be aware of your
surroundings and stick to areas that are well lit and populated especially at night time.
• Avoid shortcuts that you are not familiar with.
• Always carry enough cash for emergency situations (generally enough to get a taxi
home).
• Avoid ATMs in dark isolated areas.
• If you go out on your own or in a small group make sure that you are contactable and
that a friend knows where you will be.
• Make sure that you leave the contact details of your family back home with a close
friend in case of an emergency.
3Accommodation:
• The earlier you start looking the better. Good areas to look include Lakeview,
Wrigleyville, Bucktown, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square, Uptown, Logan Square, Avondale,
and Wicker Park.
• Temporary accommodation can be a good option for the first week such as a hostel or
AirBnb. This will give you time to get to know the area and to look at different housing
options.
• Short-term sublet is a great option for summer accommodation. These can be found on
websites such as craigslist, domu.com, apartments.com, zillow.com and sublet.com.
• Another option to consider for summer accommodation is student housing. Many
students sub-let their college accommodation during the summer. Further information
can be found on university websites.
Visa Regulations:
• If you are in the US on a tourist visa (ESTA or B2 visa’s), then you are not allowed to
work. Even if you are paid cash, employment is not authorized in any form under tourist
visas. If you are caught working on a tourist visa, this can affect your ability to get a visa
to the US in the future.
• If you are visiting on the VWP, we encourage you to invest in travel and health insurance
during your stay. Keep in mind that health care in the U.S. can be very expensive.
Several travel insurance options are below:
o VHI: www.vhi.ie/travel-insurance
o BUPA: www.bupaglobal.com/en/travel-insurance-b?target=redir
o World Nomands: www.worldnomads.com
o AXA: www.axatravelinsurance.com
• Be sure to keep in touch with your sponsoring agency and notify them of your arrival in
the U.S. Don’t forget that you must check in with SEVIS every 30 days to keep your visa
active.
• You must also contact your sponsoring agency if you want to change jobs or take on
secondary employment as they will need to vet it first and also let them know about any
change of address so that they
can notify SEVIS.
• You must get approval from your sponsor before traveling outside of the US while on a
J1 SWT visa. Failure to do so may prevent you from re-entering the US.
• DO NOT overstay your visa.
4Passports & Documentation:
• You should make every effort to look after your passport and keep it in a safe place
however if your passport is lost or stolen please contact the Irish Consulate immediately.
• Processing times for paper passport applications take between 8-10 weeks. Online passport
applications take between 4-6 weeks to process. You can renew your passport online
through the following link: https://www.dfa.ie/passportonline/
o Consulate General of Ireland
1 East Wacker Drive, Suite 1820
Chicago IL 60601
• It is a good idea to scan the photo page of your passport, your visa and your DS-2019 so that
you will have a spare copy if you need it. It is also a good idea to email this spare copy home
to parents so that they have a copy in case of emergencies.
• ICS recommends that each participant apply for an Irish Passport Card prior to or during
their stay in Chicago. A Passport card is easily kept in your wallet and will allow you to keep
your passport in a safe place when you are out and about. You can apply for your passport
card through the link below:
o https://www.dfa.ie/passportcard/
• J1 Students may also be eligible for a City Key card through the City of Chicago. A City Key
Card is a municipal ID program run by the City of Chicago that provides residents with a
locally issued government ID card. The card can also be dually used as a Ventra Card and
offers an array of discounts and promotions to museums, libraries, etc. You can read more
about the City Key program below:
o https://www.chicityclerk.com/chicagocitykey
Emergency Services in Chicago:
• If you are involved in a crime report it to the police immediately. Call 911 for
emergencies.
• If you need consular assistance, you can call the Irish consulate at +1 312 -337 - 2700.
More information can be found at www.dfa.ie/chicago/.
• We advise that you contact your sponsor upon arrival to discuss which hospitals and
clinics your insurance covers.
• For medical emergencies, dial 911.
• Irish Community Services may be able to assist you. We are contactable through +1 773-
282- 8445 and through messaging on our Facebook page.
Social Security:
• All Irish J1 students must apply for a social security number to work in the US. It is
advised to apply soon after arrival as it can take a couple of weeks to process This can
5be done two days after registering with SEVIS. You can apply at your local social security
office and will need to bring the following documentation:
o Valid, Non-expired Passport with J-1 stamp
o DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status (Section 4 – Exchange
Visitor Category must show “Summer Travel/Work”
o A completed Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card)
• *All documents must be original, and not photocopies.
• *The DS-2019 should show “Summer Travel/Work” in Section 4. If it shows otherwise, additional
documentation will be required.
• * The completed Form SS-5 should be signed and dated. The phone number should be a local
phone. The address should show Apartment #, Unit # or Mailbox # if one exists. The applicant
should ensure their name is on the mailbox or associated with the mailbox.
Departure Information:
Once the summer ends there are a few things you should do before you return to Ireland:
• Leave your home address with your employer so that they can send you your final pay
check if necessary and your tax documentation (W2) at the end of the year.
• Be sure to close your bank account before you leave the US, if the account remains open
it will collect dormancy fees and you will have debt to pay if you try to use the account
in the future.
• Remember to fill out a US tax return form between January and April of the following
year. You may be eligible for a refund of any taxes you paid whilst in the States.
Companies like taxback.com and sprintax.com can help you.
• DO NOT overstay your J1 Visa by even ONE DAY!
• Keep your Social Security Card extremely safe – it is yours forever!
• Leave your accommodation in good condition! CLEAN! Conduct a walk through with the
landlord and take photos before returning the keys.
• Take responsibility! If something is broken, replace or fix it or offer to pay the damages.
• Leave a positive lasting impression of Irish J1 Students!
o If your neighbors or landlord have been unhappy, it is never too late to make it
right – leave a thank you note or apologize in person.
• Keep in touch with your employer and other new contacts. They may be able to provide
you with a reference or connections if you return on the J1 Graduate Visa.
• If you have been arrested or received a ticket or violation: be sure to take care of it
BEFORE you leave for Ireland. Consult an attorney if necessary. These records DO NOT
go away and can impact future travel to the US.
• Be sure to obtain a CERTIFIED copy of the court report. This proves that any infraction
has been taken care of correctly. You will need this for future travel to the US or for your
J1 Graduate visa application.
6J1 Visa Dos and Don’ts:
• DO take enough money. You are required to have proof of at least $1000 on arrival. You
will need to have enough to support yourself until you are first paid which could take a
few weeks.
• DO respect the local laws. Remember the legal drinking age in Chicago is 21. Bars, Clubs
and Liquor stores will ask for a valid ID.
• DO keep your accommodation in good condition to prevent a loss of deposit. We also
want to leave landlords with the impression that Irish students are trustworthy to rent
to.
• DO keep in touch with your sponsoring agency and notify them of your arrival in the
U.S. Don’t forget that you must check in with SEVIS every 30 days to keep your visa
active. You must also contact your sponsoring agency if you want to change jobs as they
will need to vet it first and also let them know about any change of address so that they
can notify SEVIS.
• DON’T get in trouble with the law. Public order offences are treated very seriously in
the US. Police will not hesitate to act and enforce all rules.
• DON’T be tempted to get a job after travelling here on the Visa Waiver Program. It is
illegal and could result in a ban on future travel to the United States.
• DON’T travel outside the US without following Department of State guidelines and
notifying your sponsor.
• DON’T drink alcohol in public places as it is illegal in Chicago.
• DON’T over stay your Visa.
• DON’T damage, trash, or disrespect your housing or accommodation. Damaging your
accommodation is a crime which can lead to arrest and have serious implications on
future travel to the US.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Accommodation
Where can I look for summer accommodation in Chicago?
One of the best ways to find quality accommodation within your price range is to start planning
early and look for places online before you leave for Chicago. There are a number of websites
which advertise short-term sub-lets and you may use these to search for suitable units and
contact prospective landlords. ICS recommends viewing the property and meeting the land lord
in person before signing a lease or putting a deposit down. Some of the most useful rental
accommodation websites include:
• www.craigslist.com
• https://www.padmapper.com/apartments/chicago-il
7• www.domu.com
• www.apartments.com
• www.zillow.com
• www.usa.accommodationforstudents.com
• www.j1accom.com/
What are the most popular areas for students to stay during the summer in Chicago?
Students visiting Chicago seek out areas which are known for being young, vibrant and home to
bars, cafes, restaurants and places to socialize. These areas are fun to live in and offer work
opportunities for those in wish to find work in the service sector. Some examples of this kind of
area include Lakeview, Wrigleyville, Bucktown, Lincoln Park, Lincoln Square, Uptown, Logan
Square, Avondale, and Wicker Park.
How much can I expect to pay for accommodation in Chicago?
Accommodation in the areas mentioned above is expensive in general. An average 2 bedroom
apartment generally goes for $1600-2000 per month depending on its location, size and quality.
Although J1 students are often willing to compromise on their accommodation in favor of more
reasonable prices this is not always advisable. Safety and suitability should be considered
before agreeing to lease any property. Overcrowding has been an issue in past years, do not
allow unauthorized guests to reside in your apartment. Overcrowding is a serious safety hazard
and can risk eviction from your accommodation.
Transport
What is best way to get around in Chicago?
Chicago has an excellent public transport system. There is a very comprehensive network of bus
routes and a metropolitan rail system which runs above and below ground. For more details
about public transport in Chicago see the Chicago Transit Authority & Ventra Chicago websites:
• www.ventrachicago.com/
• www.transitchicago.com/
Is public transport expensive?
There is a set fee of $2.50 to use the CTA buses and trains. The necessity to transfer between
bus routes and train lines in Chicago means that if you are paying for each ride your transport
bill can add up very rapidly. The best value option if you are planning to use public transport
regularly is to purchase a Ventra 30 day pass card which is available online. They retail at $105
8and entitle you to unlimited travel on CTA buses and urban rail. That’s the cost of about 45
rides, so you will need to figure out which option is the best for you.
Is cycling an option?
Yes…and no. There are many cyclists in Chicago but the infrastructure is poor in terms of cycle
lanes and be prepared for a period adjustment getting used to cycling on the ‘wrong’ side of the
road. Also, traffic can be very bad and moves quickly. If you do decide to cycle, be sure to get a
helmet, lights, and reflective clothing. Another factor to take into account is that Chicago is very
large and what might look like a short trip on the map may turn out to be a lengthy ride.
Are taxis easily available?
Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced but not as easy to flag down on the street as in some
Irish cities. You may need to carry a phone so you can call one to your location when you need
one.
Driving service mobile phone applications such as Lyft and Uber are also available in Chicago.
Can I rent a car in Chicago?
Illinois state law dictates that only those over the age of 26 can rent car and that you must have
a full driver’s license.
Entertainment and nightlife
What is there to do for fun in Chicago?
A lot! Chicago is home to some of the finest urban parks, theaters, museums, restaurants and
bars in the US. The summer period is a particularly great time to be in Chicago as there are a
host of festivals and outdoor events. During the summer there are a number of urban beaches
on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Where’s the best place to find out about upcoming events?
There are loads of listing websites to help plan your days off and nights out. A couple of useful
ones are listed below:
• www.meetup.com
• http://chicago.metromix.com/
• www.chicagoreader.com
Are there any music festivals like Oxygen or Electric Picnic over the summer in Chicago?
9The legendary Lollapalooza takes place in Grant Park Chicago in August with dozens of acts yet
to be confirmed, keep an eye out on the website.
• www.lollapalooza.com
For those looking for something a little more on the free side, the Chicago Blues Festival takes
place at Grant Park in June and admission is free.
There are a variety of other festivals that cater to all types of music. They are very easy to find
information on through Google.
Is Chicago expensive in terms of entertainment options?
Chicago, like many major cities, can be expensive. However, the great thing about the city for
the J1 visitor on a budget is that you can also do a lot with a little cash. Many of the museums
are free on Tuesdays and some public libraries provide free passes to museums and galleries. If
you’re interested in theater, Hot Tix sells same day tickets at half price.
Night life in Chicago is reasonably cheap compared to Ireland with many pubs offering special
rates on selected beers. However, prices can be high in the more fashionable districts so it
might be helpful to read reviews of the venue you are going to in advance on the website
below:
• www.hottix.org
• www.yelp.com
What is the legal age to purchase alcohol in Chicago?
Like elsewhere in the US, you must be 21 to purchase alcohol in Chicago. This is strictly
enforced and you will not be able to enter bars, clubs or liquor stores without a valid id.
Finance
Can I use my Irish ATM card in Chicago?
Yes. However, do be aware that the American bank which operates the ATM you use may
charge a fee for the withdrawal. This fee is usually around $3. In addition, you may find your
daily withdrawal limit is substantially lower than in Ireland with many banks limiting you to
withdrawing a maximum of $300 per day.
What do I need to do before I use my ATM /Credit card in Chicago?
Officially nothing, but many Irish banks prefer that you inform them of your intention to use the
card abroad for security reasons.
10Do I need to have a certain amount of cash in my account when entering the USA on a J1
visa?
You are required to have proof of at least $1,000 on arrival. You will need to have enough to
support yourself until you are first paid which could take a few weeks. Participants should also
take into account a potential accommodation deposit. ICS recommends that each participant
have access to a minimum of $2,000 on arrival.
Can I open an American bank account?
Yes, all the major banks will willingly discuss opening a bank account which you can use during
your stay. This can even be done without having a social security number at some banks.
Employment
Do I need a social security number?
Yes, a Social Security Number is required when working on the J1 visa. An employer can hire
you before you have been issued with your social security number as long as you can provide
evidence that you have applied for one and have the legal right to work in the US.
How can I get a social security number?
You need to apply to your local Social Security Office when you find somewhere to reside in
Chicago. A list of local offices in Chicago is found here:
• https://www.ssa.gov/chicago/illinois.html
You must go to your local office bringing:
• Valid, Non-expired Passport with J-1 stamp
• DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status (Section 4 – Exchange Visitor
Category must show “Summer Travel/Work”
• A completed Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card)
*All documents must be original, and not photocopies.
*The DS-2019 should show “Summer Travel/Work” in Section 4. If it shows otherwise, additional
documentation will be required.
* The completed Form SS-5 should be signed and dated. The phone number should be a local phone.
The address should show Apartment #, Unit # or Mailbox # if one exists. The applicant should ensure
their name is on the mailbox or associated with the mailbox.
Can I claim back the income tax which I pay?
11Yes, your employer should send you forms at the end of the year which enables you to do this.
Make sure to leave your Irish address with them for this purpose. Companies like taxback.com
and sprintax.com can help you.
What is the minimum wage in Chicago?
Minimum wage ion the city is $12 per hour. The minimum wage in Cook County is $11 per hour.
However, lower rates are allowed for employees who receive tips.
Are there any jobs which I am not allowed to do in Chicago as a J1 visitor?
Yes, the following is a list of positions not covered by the J1 visa. You can also read more about
prohibited employment options on your sponsors website:
• Au Pair, Mother’s Helper, Child Caregiver, Nanny, Babysitter, Maid or other jobs of a
domestic nature in private homes.
• Child Care of any kind.
• Camp Counselor.
• Employment with a Staffing agency.
• Commission only positions.
• Factory work
• Jobs involving driving
• Jobs entailing sustained physical contact w/customers (e.g., body piercing, tattoo parlor,
massage)
• Graveyard shift jobs (with hours predominantly after 10 p.m./before 6 a.m.)
Miscellaneous
Is Chicago safe?
Chicago is generally a safe, friendly place but like any large city, it has areas which are
dangerous and have high crime rates. Exercise caution when exploring the city and be aware of
your surroundings.
Can I use my Irish phone in Chicago?
Yes, if it is a triband phone and you are registered for roaming with your provider. However,
calls and texts will be very expensive to make and, in some cases you will be charged to receive
calls and texts. It may be worth considering purchasing a cheap pay-as-you-go phone when you
get to Chicago, which are sometimes called disposable cell phones here. T-Mobile and Cricket
stock these kinds of phones at reasonable prices.
Is there any organization I can contact in the case of an emergency?
12Irish Community Services may be able to assist you with difficulties which may arise during your
stay and are contactable through our website, by phone (773) 282-8445, and also through
messaging our Facebook Page.
Useful Contacts:
• Irish Community Services:
o Website: www.irishchicago.org
o Facebook: @ICSMidwest
o Twitter: @ICSMidwest
o Telephone: +1 773-282-8445
o Email: info@irishchicago.org
o Address: 4626 N. Knox Avenue, Ste. 301, Chicago, IL 60630, USA
• Consulate General of Ireland – Chicago
o Website: www.dfa.ie/chicago/
o Facebook: @Consulate General of Ireland, Chicago
o Twitter: @IrelandChicago
o Telephone: +1 312-337-2700
o Email: ChicagoCGExternalMail@dfa.ie
o Address: 1 East Wacker Drive, Suite 1820, Chicago, IL 60601
• USIT
o Website: www.usit.ie
o Email: info@usit.ie
o Telephone: +353 01 602 1906
• SAYIT
o Website: www.j1.ie
o Email: J1visa@sayit.ie
o Telephone: +353 21 4279 190
• J1 Ireland
o Website: www.j1ireland.com
o Email: info@j1ireland.com
o Telephone: +353 (0)90 6661410
• CIEE
o Website: www.ciee.org
o Email: contact@ciee.org
o Telephone: 1-800-407-8839
• Interexchange
o Website: www.interexchange.org
o Email: info@interexchange.org
o Telephone: (212) 924-0446
• Police & Fire
o Website: www.chicagopolice.org
o Email: CLEARPATH@chicagopolice.org
13o Telephone: 911 (Emergency)
o Telephone: (312) 746-6000 (Non-emergency)
• Websites:
o J1 Chicago Facebook Group:
▪ https://www.facebook.com/groups/J1Chicago/
o Union of Students In Ireland J1 Guide:
▪ http://usi.ie/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/USI-J1-VISA-GUIDE-2016.pdf
ICS appreciates the support of the Government of Ireland Emigrant Support Programme
ICS does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national
origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations.
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