AmeriCamp is part of FurtherTravel which is part of International Training and Exchange (Intrax) Global LLC, a US designated J-1 exchange visitor visa sponsor. AmeriCamp is a cultural exchange experience and is there to enable a global understanding through shared participation, enabling friendships between Americans and the camp counsellors that attend the Summer Program. You understand that by participating in cultural exchange and volunteering your time, you will receive a set allowance for travel and out of pocket expenses. The cultural exchange experience is facilitated by us being part of a J-1 designated exchange visitor visa sponsor, AmeriCamp via Intrax, who is a designated J-1 exchange visitor visa sponsor.
AmeriCamp is not a temporary employment agency and should not be regarded as such. At no point are you employed by AmeriCamp, and this program will not lead to a full-time position or qualification. Our role is to facilitate and support you on your cultural exchange journey, neither AmeriCamp, FurtherTravel, nor Intrax Global own the camps that we partner with, and this is not a work placement, but is a cultural exchange program.
The purpose of this program agreement is to clearly detail our expectations of you as an AmeriCamp participant as well as to explain what you can expect from AmeriCamp as your cultural exchange facilitator.
Participants on the AmeriCamp program fall into one of the following categories:
First Timer Participants – Participants who haven’t been to camp previously or have participated in cultural exchange through a designated US J-1 exchange visitor visa sponsor, but are wanting to attend a new camp.
Returner Participants – Returners are those who have already partaken in a summer camp cultural exchange in the US through a designated J-1 exchange visitor visa sponsor and are looking to return to the same camp. A Summer camp position will have already been arranged directly with the camp they are returning to and they will have an “invitation to return” letter.
Direct Participants – Direct participants are first time applicants who have already secured a summer camp placement by themselves and who have not in the past obtained a J-1 exchange visitor visa. Participants only qualify as direct participants if the job has been secured by a contract prior to any payment to AmeriCamp.
As a Returning or Direct Placed participant, you understand that repeat participation is not guaranteed. The J-1 program is set up for as many applicants as possible in order to be able to experience working at summer camp in the USA. For this reason there is a limited amount of Returner and Direct Placement visas allocated each year. It is your responsibility to contact the AmeriCamp office to ensure that a visa is available for allocation to your application. Payment alone under these circumstances does not guarantee your visa.
Fees
Additional Costs
Participation in the AmeriCamp program may require certain third party fees that are out of the control of AmeriCamp and INTRAX Global. These additional costs may include (but are not limited to):
A fee for your Health History form; you may incur a fee from a medical professional to complete your Health History form. AmeriCamp is not responsible for and cannot control this cost as this will be charged at the discretion of your GP practice.
The US embassy visa fee; all J-1 Visa applicants must pay for an appointment at a US Embassy in order to be granted a visa. The price of this appointment can vary year to year, by embassy or consulate and will change with shifting exchange rates, but up to date details of the costs for the London Embassy and Belfast Consulate will be included in our ‘What You Pay’ page.
Additional costs incurred due to mistakes made in your Visa application or action required by the embassy for additional processing.
A criminal background check; all AmeriCamp applicants must complete a criminal background check, the cost of which will depend on the applicant's location. All UK Applicants will apply through a DBS service designated by AmeriCamp, the cost of which is outlined in our ‘What You Pay’ page.
Additional costs incurred due to mistakes made in your DBS application or additional criminal background checks that may be required in the event of delays in the initial background check application.
Your travel expenses to and from the US embassy to obtain your Visa.
Your travel expenses to and from the AmeriCamp Camp Fair and your AmeriCamp Orientation Day.
Your flights to and from the USA.
Any required uniform; some camps require staff to wear a uniform, such requirements can be discussed with a camp before placement is confirmed.
Travel from your arrival airport in the USA to your camp destination. Camp may provide transport to camp, but it is your responsibility to confirm any arrangements after your placement has been confirmed. Costs associated with getting to and from Camps varies and if not provided, this is your responsibility. AmeriCamp cannot be responsible for any additional costs.
Costs associated with accommodation and travel during your grace period, before or after your camp placement.
If you are required to quarantine or test positive for COVID-19 at any time, AmeriCamp cannot be responsible for any extra costs associated.
If a camp requires you to have immunizations or tests (including, but not limited to: MMR vaccines, polio vaccines, the COVID-19 vaccines etc.) prior to departure for camp, any fees will be your responsibility. If you decide against obtaining immunizations, your camp may withdraw your placement offer and AmeriCamp cannot be responsible for any fees or program costs incurred.
Costs associated with the dismissal of an applicant from the program, including but not limited to: hotel costs, flight changes, transportation to airports.
A late documentation fee of £50 will be charged if the medical form is submitted more than 45 days after your application is on our placement system.
You understand that failure to make any additional payments will delay your application. As there are limited places available on the cultural exchange program, we are working on a first come first serve basis. If you are having difficulty paying these costs, please contact AmeriCamp as soon as possible.
Throughout your cultural exchange program at camp, you will receive a set allowance. For First Time applicants this amount will be at least $2250 USD (before tax). For Returner and Direct Placement applicants this amount is negotiable with your camp and is your responsibility to arrange.
You understand that the visa embassy appointment fee is a third-party cost that is paid directly to the US Embassy. By signing up to this cultural exchange program and paying this fee, you will be entitled to attend a J-1 exchange visitor visa appointment but your visa is subject to the US Department of State and US Embassy and payment does not guarantee Visa approval. In addition to this, AmeriCamp is not responsible for a lack of appointments at your chosen US Embassy or Consulate or any Visa denial or any delays caused by additional processing. By signing this program agreement, you understand that the visa embassy appointment fee is non-refundable.
By participating in the AmeriCamp Cultural Exchange Program, you will receive:
Customer service and support with your application prior to your departure to camp and in your Visa application process.
DS2019 form and SEVIS receipt (paperwork required for the US J-1 exchange visitor visa application), provided by AmeriCamp via Intrax who is a J-1 designated exchange visitor visa sponsor.
Our best efforts to find and secure a placement at a Summer Camp in the USA for you, subject to following; this program agreement, AmeriCamp guidelines, compliance with your camp, and full compliance with all US Department of State requirements for J-1 exchange visitor visa holders. By signing this program agreement, you understand that placement is not guaranteed.
Access to our in person and virtual hiring events and UK Camp Fairs.
A guarantee of allowance of at least $2250 USD (before tax) provided directly by the camp you are placed with, following successful completion of your program.
24 hours a day, 7 days a week emergency support during your program in the United States from AmeriCamp via Intrax.
An up to 30 day grace period after your final working date, during which you can travel anywhere within the US. This 30 days begins from the final date listed on your Visa and you must exit the US within these 30 days so as not to breach the parameters of your Visa. Applicants must plan and organise all post-camp travel independently and this is not the responsibility of AmeriCamp.
Medical insurance for your entire period in the US covered by your J- 1 exchange visitor visa, including your up-to 30 day grace period which commences on your program end date. Once you complete your check-in in the USA, you will automatically be enrolled onto medical insurance. This is part of your program fees and cannot be refunded for its monetary value if you are unable to take part in the program. See the Medical Insurance section of this program agreement for more details.
Accommodation and food for your entire Camp period, to be agreed upon with Camp. Camps are not required to provide accommodation and food for those arriving to Camp property early or departing late, outside of the agreed upon dates.
In addition to this First Timer Participants will receive:
An orientation day prior to departure to camp. Attendance is a J-1 exchange visitor visa requirement. Failure to attend may result in cancellation of your application without a refund. If you cannot attend an in-person orientation, we may be able to facilitate a virtual orientation, but under a very strict set of circumstances and on the basis we have already met you in person.
What AmeriCamp requires from you as the Participant:
To comply with the terms of this program agreement.
To complete each section of your application within the time frames provided by AmeriCamp, to ensure you have adequate time to have your application reviewed, your paperwork processed, and for you to complete your visa application. See the Visa Application section for more details on this.
You will complete an interview with an AmeriCamp representative after completing your Stage One (pre-interview) application questions. Your acceptance to the AmeriCamp cultural exchange program is dependent upon a successful interview. AmeriCamp welcomes diversity and equality of opportunity, the interview process will test your suitability for camp and its requirements. It is also an opportunity for you to learn more about cultural exchange and what to expect from camp. If you are unsuccessful in your interview, we process a refund of your deposit.
To provide all of the necessary documents and payments to facilitate your visa application by May 1st of the year you travel. This includes, but is not limited to, a clear photo of your passport, 2 references, your signed placement agreement and your background check.
To provide all of the necessary documents to be program ready for Camp and be in compliance with Department of State regulations by May 1st of the year you travel. This includes, but is not limited to, your Health History Form, background check and confirmation of your visa approval.
To provide all of the necessary documents and information required by the Camp you are placed with. This will vary by Camp and will be communicated to you following your placement. Failure to provide required information or meet deadlines set by the Camp could lead to your dismissal and AmeriCamp are not required to provide refunds of program fees if you are unable to find alternate placement following a pre-departure dismissal from Camp.
If you think that you will not complete the required documents in time, it is your responsibility to contact AmeriCamp so that we can assess your individual circumstances. If we are unable to get in contact with you regarding the details that you provide in your application we will assume you no longer want to participate in the program and your application will be cancelled for inactivity. In either scenario, as there are limited places available and we are working on a first come first serve basis, we reserve the right to withdraw you from the program with no refund.
If you are a first time participant, you are required to attend an in person AmeriCamp Orientation to meet the requirements of the J-1 exchange visitor visa.
If you are a repeat participant applying to a new camp, we will require a positive reference from your former camp. The AmeriCamp team are happy to help you contact your previous camp if you require, however, if you do not provide this reference for any reason your Application Deposit is non-refundable.
Health History Form
AmeriCamp requires all participants to complete the Health History provided to you via the portal. Failure to complete a Health form prior to April 1st may lead to program cancellation or late fees and arrival at Camp without a Health form could lead to dismissal.
All sections of the Health form must be completed for the form to be accepted. There is a section to be completed by the applicant and a section to be completed and signed by a medical professional. This medical professional must confirm that you are able to safely participate in our program.
Your Health Form must be completed and submitted within 45 days of your application being entered into our placement system, or by April 1st, whichever comes first. Any forms that are not submitted within this time frame will be subject to a £50 late documentation fee.
You must make AmeriCamp aware of any pre-existing medical conditions in your application. If AmeriCamp deem your pre-existing medical condition will affect your ability to safely participate in our program we reserve the right to remove you from the program. We will issue you with a full refund if you are deemed unfit to participate in the program, however this information must be disclosed prior to interview for you to receive this refund.
Any pre-existing medical condition(s) will not be covered by the insurance policy you receive through Intrax. You are responsible for obtaining additional insurance to cover you for any pre-existing condition(s).
If you withhold any information about your pre-existing condition(s) from AmeriCamp, we reserve the right to remove you from the program without a refund.
AmeriCamp cannot be held responsible for any issues that arise from undisclosed pre-existing medical condition(s). Any fees incurred as a result of this during the Visa application process or whilst at camp will be your responsibility.
If you are diagnosed with any medical condition throughout your application process or after receiving your completed Health form, it is your responsibility to inform AmeriCamp and your Camp before your placement begins. For the avoidance of doubt, this would be classed as a pre-existing medical condition.
As you are participating in cultural exchange with children and/or vulnerable individuals, your camp may require you to have vaccines or tests prior to attending camp. This is your responsibility to complete these in a timely manner before your program start date. This may include but is not limited to; TB tests, MMR vaccines, a negative COVID-19 test, COVID-19 vaccine(s), or an up to date COVID-19 passport. You may need to provide evidence to confirm that you have had these. AmeriCamp cannot be held responsible for obtaining these, you must ensure any necessary tests or vaccines are obtained in a timely manner before you travel.
If you do not have the required tests or vaccines, your camp may remove your placement offer. If this happens, please contact the AmeriCamp office as soon as possible. It is your responsibility to make sure you have the correct vaccinations as required by your camp.
AmeriCamp is not responsible for any issue arising from either a camp’s individual policy, the US Department of State, or local and national governments regarding COVID-19, testing or quarantine. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct category of test to enter the USA and have this taken within the required period of time set out by travel or country guidelines. If you are unable to take a test or test negative, AmeriCamp cannot be held responsible.
In the event that you or any member of your booking is diagnosed or has otherwise been in contact with someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 which results in you being unable to travel and/or require you to self-isolate, we cannot be liable for any refunds, compensation, costs, expenses or other losses of any kind incurred by you.
If you are required to quarantine on arrival to the USA, your camp must confirm if they can accommodate this. If you are scheduling flights or have booked them, you must ensure you accommodate any required quarantine time. If your camp is unable to facilitate quarantine for you it is your responsibility to ensure that you can quarantine for the designated period of time before arriving at camp.
You must take the original copy of your Health History Form to camp with you. Failure to do so could result in immediate dismissal at your camp. You are responsible for any fees that arise as a result of this.
Criminal Background Check
We require you to detail any and all cautions, arrests and convictions to AmeriCamp prior to interview. If you are unsure how to detail these, please contact AmeriCamp.
AmeriCamp’s parent company Intrax as a designated J-1 exchange visa sponsor will have to assess your application before you have your AmeriCamp interview in order for you to be eligible for the program. At this stage, if we are unable to progress due to concerns related to a caution, arrest or conviction that AmeriCamp deems will affect your ability to secure a J-1 visa you will receive a full refund of your Application Deposit.
If you fail to provide honest and accurate information at any stage of your AmeriCamp application, this could result in your application for a J-1 exchange visa being denied. Any fees incurred as a result of this will be your responsibility. In the event of this you waive your right to a refund.
If you are cautioned, arrested or convicted of anything after completing your AmeriCamp application or after receiving your police background check, it is your responsibility to inform us before your placement begins. For the avoidance of doubt, we will reassess your eligibility to the program. Any refunds will be considered on a case by case basis.
If you are a UK applicant, we require you to apply for a background check through AmeriCamp’s designated partner. We cannot accept a background check that you have obtained outside of our designated partner. Information on how to apply for a background check can be found on your application portal. By signing up for AmeriCamp, you understand that once your DBS application has been submitted, this fee is non-refundable. AmeriCamp is not responsible for any additional costs incurred by delays or disruption to this background check.
If you are applying from a country outside of the UK you will need to apply for the equivalent background check available from your home country. AmeriCamp is not responsible for organising this on your behalf or for any additional costs incurred by delays or disruption to this background check.
If you have lived abroad for more than 3 months whilst over the age of 18, you will need to obtain an additional background check from these countries.
You agree that AmeriCamp will share your background check with relevant third parties, necessary for your placement at camp. Namely AmeriCamp’s parent company INTRAX and camps who are considering you for a cultural exchange placement.
Background checks take a varying amount of time to process and be sent out to you. You are responsible for applying for your background check at least two months prior to leaving for the USA in order to ensure that you have enough time to complete the visa process before travelling.
When you receive your background check, you must upload a copy to your AmeriCamp account immediately.
You must bring the original copy of your background check to camp with you. Failure to do so may result in immediate termination of your placement. All fees incurred as a result of this will be your responsibility. In the event of this, AmeriCamp will not process refunds.
Your police background check is required for AmeriCamp’s parent company, a designated J-1 exchange visitor visa sponsor, or any of our partners who are also a designated J-1 exchange visitor visa sponsor to process your visa documents. Any delays in applying for your background check may delay your visa documents and therefore, your visa application process. Neither AmeriCamp nor our designated J-1 exchange visitor visa partners, can be held responsible for this. In the event of this, AmeriCamp will not process refunds.
J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa Process
All participants must apply for a J-1 exchange visitor visa in order to take part in the AmeriCamp cultural exchange program and to attend a Summer camp in the USA. By signing the terms of this agreement, you agree to abide by all the rules and regulations of the J-1 exchange visitor visa as outlined by the US Department of State.
As a part of the J-1 exchange visitor visa application process you will need to attend an in person interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in your home country or country of legal residence. Appointments are released by the embassy or consulate in line with demand at any particular time. Processes can vary throughout the season and any updates regarding the application process or the US Embassy or Consulate will be communicated to you as and when required. AmeriCamp cannot be held responsible if you are unable to book an appointment at the US embassy.
When you are ready to complete your visa application and book your visa appointment, AmeriCamp will support you in this process. Submission of all required documentation and payments is the responsibility of the applicant and failure to do so in a timely manner could result in your inability to apply for a visa in time for your Camp start date. If you are unable to secure a visa in time for the date agreed upon with Camp, you understand that you risk dismissal by Camp and that AmeriCamp cannot guarantee alternate placement or provide any refund of fees.
It is recommended by the US Department of State that all visa applicants attend an in person interview in their home country of citizenship or permanent legal residency. You understand that booking an appointment outside of your country of citizenship or permanent residency may result in a higher risk of visa denial.
In order to book your visa appointment you will need your DS2019 form to be processed. This document must be taken to your embassy or consulate for your appointment as proof of cultural exchange visa sponsorship. Before your designated J-1 exchange visitor visa sponsor can process your DS2019 you will need the following:some text
Your background check must be uploaded to your MyAmeriCamp INTRAX portal account. See the background check section of this program agreement for more details.
You must digitally sign a placement agreement with camp on your AmeriCamp account.
You must have at least 2 completed references, submitted by referees you have known in a professional or educational setting for at least 6 months, who are not family or friends and whom you have had contact with in the past year from the point of submission.
Paid your AmeriCamp cultural exchange program fees in full.
Uploaded a clear photo of your passport section to your AmeriCamp account. This must be valid for 12 months from your entry to the USA.
Your “personal information” section on your application must be accurate at all times, including the legal name listed on your passport and country of birth and citizenship. If your details change, please contact AmeriCamp immediately.
If you have any issues with any of these steps, you must contact AmeriCamp immediately so that we can help you to resolve any issues.
Your visa documents will be uploaded to the Document Uploads section of your AmeriCamp account . If a mistake is identified on your DS2019 form caused by a mistake within your original application, you will be responsible for the fee to reissue a new DS-2019. For this reason it is important that you take care when completing your documentation and verify all details are accurate.
Your $35 SEVIS fee to the US Department of State will be paid for you. We will provide you with instructions to download your SEVIS receipt once paid. This document must be taken to your visa appointment. If you accidentally pay this, AmeriCamp cannot issue a refund of any fee paid by you.
You must not try to book your visa appointment before receiving your DS2019 and instructions from AmeriCamp. Doing so could result in error, any fees incurred will be your responsibility.
Attending a Visa appointment without the documents specified by AmeriCamp in your Visa instructions could result in visa denial or additional processing. AmeriCamp is not responsible for any fees incurred due to this and cannot alter decisions made by the embassy in regards to visa denial.
You are responsible for any costs associated with attending your US Embassy or Consulate, including but not limited to the fee the US Embassy charges for the appointment or travel costs required to attend the embassy or consulate.
You must take your passport to your visa appointment. Post-appointment, the US Embassy or Consulate will keep your passport for a minimum of 5-10 working days before posting it back to you. Do not make international travel arrangements soon after your interview as you may not be able to travel. The US Embassy will either send your passport to you via their designated courier, or you can opt to collect it from a specified collection point. AmeriCamp cannot be responsible for any issues arising from this, you should contact the US Embassy or courier for assistance.
It is your responsibility to book an embassy appointment with sufficient time to be issued the visa prior to your agreed upon departure date to Camp. If your visa is delivered later than the expected date of departure, please notify AmeriCamp. In this situation, AmeriCamp is not responsible for any costs incurred by booking flights that have to be rescheduled or cancelled, or for dismissal by Camp if you are unable to attend essential pre-camp training or orientation.
If your J-1 exchange visitor visa application is refused at your appointment, contact AmeriCamp immediately. AmeriCamp cannot be held responsible for decisions made by a US Embassy, Consulate or representative of the US Department of State. You will have the option to rebook your visa appointment at an additional cost if you wish to do so. If the visa refusal is a final decision, AmeriCamp cannot be held responsible for any refunds.
Cultural Exchange Volunteer Placement
In order to be made live to Camps on our online system you must meet the requirements set by AmeriCamp which includes (but is not limited to) payment of your Stage 2 program fee, a full AmeriCamp application and interview, and at least one reference in support of your application.
Once you are ready to go live on our online placement system, you will be placed ‘on hold’ with one Camp at a time. When you are ‘on hold’ with a Camp you cannot be seen by other Camps and will not be released from said hold unless the Camp does not have a role available for you or you officially reject an offer.
If you are offered a camp placement that does not meet your needs, it is your responsibility to let AmeriCamp know within 5 working days. If you don’t contact us within this time period we will assume that you are accepting this placement and you will not be placed on hold with any further Camps.
AmeriCamp are not your employer, we are a cultural exchange facilitator. Neither AmeriCamp, our parent company, Intrax Global LLC nor our partners, own the Summer camps in the USA. Due to this we are not directly responsible for any decisions made by Camps in regards to your placement.
If you require a reference after camp, we can confirm that you were a participant on our cultural exchange program, however, we cannot provide information about your performance at camp.
By signing up with AmeriCamp you understand that we cannot guarantee placement and that it is your responsibility to maintain contact with Camps considering your application in order to secure a placement.
If you are not placed by June 1st through no fault of your own (i.e. you have received no offers from Camps) you will receive a full refund of program fees paid to AmeriCamp.
You must apply before April 1st of the year of travel in order to be considered and any applications after this date will automatically be transferred to the following summer.
Medical and Travel Insurance Whilst at Camp
When you are placed at a camp you will be enrolled onto a medical insurance plan provided by our J-1 exchange visitor visa sponsor’s designated partner.
For All Participants (First Timer, Returning and Direct Placement) your insurance will cover you for your entire AmeriCamp placement, including the 30 day grace period.
If your time in the USA exceeds your AmeriCamp program dates, or is over the 30 day grace period, you may need to purchase an extension to your insurance policy. It is your personal responsibility to have adequate medical coverage for the duration of your time in the USA.
If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, this is not covered by the medical insurance provided as part of the cultural exchange program. You are responsible for obtaining additional insurance to cover your pre-existing condition(s). If you do not obtain additional medical insurance, you accept responsibility for any cost or treatment in the event you need medical attention for your pre-existing medical condition(s).
Neither AmeriCamp nor our designated J-1 exchange visitor visa sponsor can be held responsible for any issues that arise as a result of any undisclosed pre-existing medical condition(s). Withholding this information could result in your termination from the program. In this case you waive the right to a refund and may incur additional charges.
If your medical information changes at any point throughout your application, you must inform AmeriCamp immediately. If you have received a diagnosis and AmeriCamp or one of our designated J-1 exchange visitor visa sponsors think that this could affect your ability to safely participate in our program we reserve the right to remove you from the program. Any refunds will be issued at the discretion of AmeriCamp depending on your application status.
Neither AmeriCamp nor our designated J-1 exchange visitor visa sponsor are responsible for providing travel insurance for your time in the USA including travel after Camp. It is a requirement of the J-1 exchange visitor visa that you as the applicant organise travel insurance coverage for the period of your program. AmeriCamp is not liable for any travel disruptions or cancellation, or lost luggage and will not provide compensation for fees incurred by this due to an applicant neglecting to seek travel insurance.
Refund and Cancellation Policy
First Timer Participants
If you are a first-timer participant and you choose to withdraw, the following charges will apply:
If cancelling within 10 working days of initial payment and prior to AmeriCamp interview, you are due back all program fees paid to AmeriCamp (excluding DBS Background Check fee if applicable)
DBS Background Check fee becomes non-refundable at the point of submission of your application to our designated DBS partner. DBS Background Check fee is only refundable if some text
Your information has not yet been submitted to our DBS partner
You mistakenly pay for the DBS as a non-UK resident who cannot apply for a Background check through our designated partner
If cancelling after AmeriCamp interview but prior to being ‘Live to Camps’ we will retain your deposit and provide a refund of any other program fees paid (excluding DBS Background Check fee if applicable)
If cancelling after application is ‘Live to Camps’ but not placed we will retain your deposit and Stage 2 fee and provide a refund of any Stage 3 program fees paid (excluding DBS Background Check fee if applicable)
If cancelling after placement is confirmed, no refund is provided.
If you are not placed, by no fault of your own, by June 1st of the intended year of travel, you will receive a full refund of program fees paid to AmeriCamp (excluding DBS Background Check fee if applicable).
If you reject a placement from a camp (for any reason other than the camp not aligning with the dates and preferences stated on your application) you waive your right to a refund.
If you are unhappy with a camp whilst you are on review with them, you need to let AmeriCamp know as soon as possible so that we can work with our designated J-1 exchange visitor visa sponsors to place you at a different camp.
When you apply to the AmeriCamp cultural exchange program and pay your fees, you are paying for a service. We will support you throughout your application, help you secure your placement, process paperwork and make sure that you are ready to get to camp. AmeriCamp are not responsible for the running of your camp, or travel to and from your camp, and we are not responsible if your camp does not go ahead for any reason.
Returning and Direct Placed Participants
If you are a returning or direct placed participant and you choose to withdraw, the following charges will apply:
If cancelling within 10 working days of initial payment and prior to official placement with Camp through our online system, you are due back all program fees paid to AmeriCamp (excluding DBS Background Check fee if applicable)
DBS Background Check fee becomes non-refundable at the point of submission of your application to our designated DBS partner. DBS Background Check fee is only refundable if
Your information has not yet been submitted to our DBS partner
You mistakenly pay for the DBS as a non-UK resident who cannot apply for a Background check through our designated partner
3. If cancelling after placement is confirmed, no refund is provided.
All Participants
If you or a member of your immediate family suffers a life threatening illness or death prior to you leaving for camp, we will process a refund of your program fees bar your initial deposit, following the submission of a detailed ‘Exceptional Circumstances’ form and written evidence in the form of Doctor's note or death certificate.
If you are unable to book a J-1 exchange visitor visa appointment at least 6 weeks prior to your planned date of travel to the USA, you must let AmeriCamp know as soon as possible. In this event, we will support you where possible, however, we reserve the right to withdraw your application from the program and you waive the right to a refund.
Any costs incurred for third party fees, including but not limited to; transport costs, flights and your J-1 exchange visitor visa interview are non-refundable by AmeriCamp.
If you are dismissed from camp or decide to leave the program early you waive the right to your remaining salary at the time of departure and will receive no refund of program fees. AmeriCamp is not responsible for any costs incurred by early dismissal or departure. some text
Any potential rematching at another host camp will be at the discretion of the AmeriCamp Team and is not a guarantee. This is under all circumstances of you leaving camp including, but not limited to, your own decision to leave, being dismissed from camp or being released from your contract.
Except where otherwise expressly stated in these Booking Conditions, we will not be liable or pay you compensation if our contractual obligations to you are affected by any event beyond our or our supplier’s control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken. Examples include warfare and acts of terrorism (and threat thereof), civil strife, significant risks to human health such as the outbreak of serious disease at the travel destination (including the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic), pandemics, epidemics or natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes or weather conditions which make it impossible to travel safely to the travel destination or remain at the travel destination, the act of any government or other national or local authority including port or river authorities, industrial dispute, labour strikes, lock closure, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, chemical or biological disaster, unavoidable technical problems with transport and all similar events outside our or a supplier’s concerned control.
Brexit Implications: please note that certain travel arrangements may be affected as a result of the United Kingdom’s decision to leave the European Union. This could include unavailability of certain flight routes, access to certain ports and airports and changes to the visa requirements for British citizens travelling to, within or through the EU. Please rest assured that this is something we will continue to monitor and we will advise our customers as soon as possible if we become aware of any confirmed bookings that will be affected. Since this is something completely unprecedented and outside our control, we would endeavour to provide suitable alternative arrangements where possible, however, we will not be liable to pay you any compensation.
Flights and Travel in the USA
AmeriCamp does not offer a flight option included in the program fees. We work to make sure all costs are clear from the start and prefer you to get your maximum allowance over the Summer, this will also provide you with flight flexibility.
AmeriCamp advises to not book your flights until you have your visa secure in case of any potential delays with the visa process.
You are responsible for booking your flights to camp in a timely manner and AmeriCamp cannot be held responsible for increases in flight costs caused by any delays in booking flights. Once you have signed your placement agreement you will need to contact your camp for exact details of the airport you are expected to arrive at and the date of arrival.
The majority of our camps will provide travel from arrival airports to camp, however, this is not guaranteed and you will need to discuss these arrangements with your camp prior to booking your flights.
You must upload your flight schedule to your AmeriCamp account as soon as possible after booking your flights. This information is essential to the activation of your medical insurance and any issues arising in regards to medical insurance due to withholding of said information is not the responsibility of AmeriCamp.
In accordance with the guidelines of the J-1 exchange visitor visa, you can enter the USA for up to 30 days before your camp contract begins and must leave the US within 30 days of your contract end date. However, if you are entering more than 5 days before, please be prepared to show proof of where you’ll be staying and what you’ll be doing.
Cultural Exchange Camp Agreement
All Participants
Your camp will set the dates of your placement, when you sign your contract, you agree to honour those dates. Any date changes made to your agreement will require a new contract. The dates set are between you and your camp, AmeriCamp is not responsible for negotiating your placement dates. Failure to arrive to Camp by the agreed upon date may lead to dismissal and AmeriCamp cannot guarantee alternate placement and will not provide any refund of program fees.
Your visa dates must match your camp placement dates. Any discrepancy of dates listed on your DS-2019 or Visa documentation must be reported to AmeriCamp.
You understand that your schedule and hours are dependent on your host camp’s daily schedule and AmeriCamp is not responsible for your allotted time off during the summer.
If you leave your placement before your agreed end date you will waive the right to a refund of program fees or the remaining balance of your expected salary from camp.
Your camp will have rules that you will have to adhere to. They are in place for the safety and wellbeing of all individuals at camp. These may include, but are not limited to; no smoking, no drinking, no inappropriate relationships on camp. Failure to adhere to these rules may result in dismissal from camp. Any fees incurred as a result of this will be your responsibility. See the refund and cancellation policy for additional details on early dismissal.
While in the USA, you are subject to the US civil and criminal justice system. Failure to obey federal, state, and local laws may result in civil liability, criminal prosecution, fines, jail sentences or other penalties in addition to dismissal from the AmeriCamp program. AmeriCamp is not responsible for any civil or criminal liability you may incur or for assisting or defending you in any way in connection with any legal claims made against you.
AmeriCamp is not responsible for the running of your camp. We are a cultural exchange facilitator and our role is to find you a placement where you can experience cultural exchange. You must take full responsibility for the completion of your placement and meet the expected standards of your position so as not to risk early dismissal. We cannot take responsibility for the actions of your camp and have no control over decisions made to dismiss you early.
If you need to end your placement early due to family circumstances or other emergencies you will need to contact AmeriCamp immediately. We will work with you with your individual circumstances but cannot provide financial compensation or support in your return home.
You will receive a set allowance from your camp and this will compensate for the travel and out of pocket expenses you incurred and processed throughout the cultural exchange process.
AmeriCamp Policy
Throughout the application process you must be honest with AmeriCamp. All of the information you provide must be accurate in order for us to work with you to find you a placement. If it transpires that you were dishonest at any stage of the process, or withheld information from us that could affect our ability to place you, you may be removed from the program with legal action taken. In these circumstances we will not process refunds.
Any behaviour that AmeriCamp deems inappropriate, inaccurate or prejudicial (this will include on social media channels and any other publicly available information that you share) will result in your removal from the program. In the event of this you waive your right to a refund.
As a part of our agreement with you, we will treat you with respect and work to overcome any challenges that may arise in your application process. We ask that you treat all of the AmeriCamp staff with respect and consideration. Any behaviour that negates this agreement may result in your removal from the program. In the event of this you waive your right to a refund.
If you are dismissed from Camp and leave the program not in good standing we are not required to replace you at an alternate camp and reserve the right to reject any future application made by yourself.
Emergencies whilst in the USA
Whilst you are at camp you will be provided with an emergency phone number. This phone number is available 24 hours, 7 days a week. An emergency is deemed a serious accident such as hospitalisation or arrest in which you need your sponsor's help after regular business hours. You will be provided with this number at the AmeriCamp orientation.
By signing this agreement you agree to only contact this number in case of emergency. If you have an issue that does not constitute an emergency you can contact AmeriCamp via email at info@AmeriCamp.co.uk, where we will look to get back to you within 2 working days. You can also call your local AmeriCamp office during business hours
Data Protection
By signing this form you agree that:
We can share the data from your application to third parties relevant in the application process and as part of FurtherTravel and Intrax Global. This may include but is not limited to, USA camps who are considering your application, our parent company Intrax, any of our affiliated partners, exchange visitor visa sponsor, insurance companies, FurtherTravel and government departments (in the USA and your home country).
You are required to share sensitive information with us during the process, which includes but is not limited to your medical and criminal history. In order for us to find you a placement at a summer camp you agree to disclose this information honestly and in detail. Failure to do so may hinder our ability to place you or lead to visa denial. In this case we reserve the right to remove you from the program and you waive the right to a refund.
You agree that images and media taken or recorded of you at AmeriCamp events or during your placement at camp can be used for AmeriCamp marketing and promotional purposes.
By submitting payment to AmeriCamp and ticking your acceptance to this contract you are bound by the terms listed in this program agreement.
These booking conditions are governed by the laws of England and Wales. You agree that any dispute, claim or other matter that arises out of this agreement will be resolved in courts of England and Wales only.
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