Visa & Job Guide

(Note: This guide includes links to accredited TESOL programs for reference.) Are you an international teacher dreaming of working abroad, especially in English-speaking countries like the US, Canada, or Australia? You may have heard about TESOL certification. But is it really necessary? And is it worth your time and money? What Is TESOL Certification? TESOL … Read more

Losing your job is never easy, and for H-1B teachers in the United States, it can feel even more overwhelming. Your visa is directly tied to your employment, so when your teaching position ends, your legal status is immediately affected. If you are an H-1B teacher who has been terminated, here’s what you need to … Read more

Losing your job is never easy, but for J-1 teachers in the United States, getting fired in the middle of the school year can be especially stressful. Your visa status is tied to your employment, which means your ability to stay in the country is directly affected. If you find yourself in this situation, here’s … Read more

Every year, hundreds of teachers from around the world arrive in the United States, full of dreams and excitement, to begin their journey as exchange teachers. For many, this is their first time stepping into an American classroom—wide-eyed, hopeful, and maybe a little nervous. Some go on to thrive, creating lasting memories and lifelong friendships. … Read more

Fast-Track Your Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) with Educational Perspectives – Special Discount for Teach-USA Teachers! Are you a Filipino teacher dreaming of teaching in the U.S.? One of the key steps to making that dream a reality is having your credentials evaluated. If you’re processing your J-1 or H-1B visa, a Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) … Read more

  As a J-1 teacher in the U.S., your visa status is directly tied to your visa sponsor. This means that any significant changes in your job or personal circumstances must be reported immediately. Failing to do so could put your visa—and your ability to stay and work in the U.S.—at serious risk. To stay … Read more

✅ Yes, for the first 2 years—H-1B visa holders may qualify for tax treaty benefits if they are considered nonresident aliens under the Substantial Presence Test (SPT). After 2 years, they become resident aliens and generally lose treaty benefits. Unlike J-1 visa holders, who often receive clear-cut exemptions, H-1B tax treaty benefits vary and depend … Read more

✅ J-1 visa holders are generally exempt from FICA taxes (Social Security & Medicare) for the first two years. However, many wonder if they can claim benefits later or get a refund if these taxes were deducted. Here’s what you need to know: Are J-1 Visa Holders Exempt from FICA Taxes? Yes! Under IRS Code … Read more

How Filipino Teachers Under the J-1 Visa Can Claim Tax Treaty Benefits This Tax Season Tax season can feel overwhelming for international visa holders in the U.S., but Filipino J-1 exchange visitors have a unique opportunity to reduce their tax burden. Thanks to the U.S.-Philippines Tax Treaty, certain types of income earned by J-1 visa … Read more

  💥 One moment of anger.One misunderstood word.One well-meaning gesture taken the wrong way. That’s all it takes to lose your teaching job in the U.S.—especially if you’re here on a J-1 visa. In this post, I’m sharing real stories from international teachers who faced serious consequences—some even getting fired, investigated, or arrested—because of cultural … Read more

  If you’re a J-1 visa holder planning to travel outside the U.S., it’s important to understand the requirements and potential risks before leaving. Whether you’re visiting family, attending a conference, or just exploring another country, here’s what you need to know to ensure a smooth re-entry into the U.S.   Check Your Visa Validity … Read more

You made it! 🇺🇸 You’re now teaching in the U.S. on a J-1 or H-1B visa, living the dream that many aspire to achieve. But what if one overlooked mistake could put everything at risk? Many international teachers focus on getting here—but staying and thriving in the profession requires more than just great teaching skills. … Read more

Dreaming of teaching in the U.S. on a J-1 or H-1B visa? 🇺🇸✨ Many international teachers pursue this path, hoping for better opportunities and career growth. You might have the right qualifications, experience, and confidence—but there’s one crucial factor that will determine whether you truly succeed. It’s not just about paperwork, interviews, or teaching skills. … Read more

Travel Advisory for J-1 Teachers: Always Carry Legal Documents During Interstate Travel As a J-1 teacher, you may occasionally need to travel out of state for personal or professional reasons. While traveling within the U.S. can be an exciting experience, it’s important to stay vigilant and prepared for potential legal checks.  The Immigration and Customs … Read more

As a J-1 visa teacher, maintaining your visa status is essential to ensuring a smooth and successful stay in the United States. The J-1 visa is a unique opportunity for international educators to share their culture, teach in U.S. schools, and gain valuable professional experience. However, failing to comply with the program’s rules can lead … Read more

Guide for J-1 Teachers in the U.S. for More Than 2 Years If you’ve been in the U.S. on a J-1 visa for more than two years, your tax obligations might change. Here’s what you need to know: Tax Residency Status Changes After being in the U.S. for more than two calendar years, you may … Read more

Navigating Tax Obligations as a J-1 Visa Teacher in the U.S. Teaching in the U.S. on a J-1 visa is an exciting opportunity, but it comes with responsibilities, including understanding your tax obligations. As a J-1 visa teacher, you’ll need to comply with U.S. tax laws while navigating unique rules that apply to international workers. … Read more

What J-1 Visa Teachers Need to Know About Retirement and Social Security in the U.S. Teaching in the U.S. on a J-1 visa can be an exciting opportunity, but it also raises important questions about finances, including retirement and Social Security. As a J-1 visa teacher, you contribute to the U.S. Social Security system, but … Read more

What Happens If You Fulfill the 212(e) Rule Outside Your Home Country? The J-1 visa’s 212(e) rule, also known as the two-year home residency requirement, mandates that some visa holders must return to their home country for a total of two years before they can apply for certain U.S. visas or permanent residency. But what … Read more

Understanding J-1 Visa Requirements for International Teachers Applying for a J-1 visa to teach in the United States is an exciting step for international educators. However, the requirements for the visa can differ depending on whether you’re currently working as a teacher in your home country or if you’re outside your home country at the … Read more