Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Seasonal work in North America
Probably the most popular seasonal job for gappers in the US is working on a summer camp.
The US has strict regulations on visas and work permits but summer camps are a well-estab-
lished way of working for a short time.
US work regulations are very complicated, and specific, and this is one time where it would
help to use a placement organisation to help you through the paperwork, but make sure you
check out the small print about pay, accommodation and expenses.
Each year thousands of young British and European students apply to join the summer camp
programmes in the US as counsellors. Note, though, that programmes can only be arranged
with specialist organisations.
If you don't fancy summer camp there are lots of other possibilities, from working on a
ranch to cruise ship jobs. Have a look at:
www.jobmonkey.com
It covers all sorts of work from fishing jobs in Alaska, to working on a ranch, to casino and
gaming clubs and cruise work. But check with the US embassy to make sure you can get a
visa or a work permit for the job you fancy. See:
www.usembassy.org.uk
There are plenty of opportunities for working holidays in Canada, most commonly at hotels
and restaurants, and ski and summer resorts.
Jon Arnold, of Oyster Worldwide, pointed out that Canada has a limited supply of work per-
mits. These are released in batches and they tend to run out very fast, so it's very important
to plan ahead. “The work permits in 2014 were released in Dec 2013 and Jan 2014. Each
batch that was released was gone within 20 minutes of release. It is even more important that
people apply 12 months in advance to stand a chance with getting a work permit.”
Jon added: “Working in a country like Canada for up to 12 months is an excellent way to
spend your gap-year. There is so much to get involved in all-year round and the experience
certainly won't do your CV any harm.”
