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Welcome to the Can-Camp program - for Canadian citizens who must obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (Form DS-2019) in order to apply for J-1 status at the US border.

If you are not a Canadian citizen, but a resident in Canada (either permanent or temporary), please call us on 1-800-462-8622 for advice before applying.

This program is for camp counselor and support worker positions only. Applicants who are hired as health centre/nursing staff CANNOT enter the US on this J-1 program.

Your camp director should be aware that you are using CAN-CAMP to obtain your work visa. If s/he has not employed staff through BUNAC’s programs before, please ask them to contact us today to register.

International Exchange of North America (IENA) is the official U.S. program sponsor. You will receive their sponsorship info pack at the time your DS-2019 is issued.

CAUTION: US immigration regulations change frequently. RETURNING STAFF are advised to read carefully about any changes that have occurred since their last summer of participation on CAN-CAMP or a similar program.

Eligibility for Can-Camp

To be eligible for Can-Camp you must be:

  • 18 years old by your date of entry into the US, and
  • A Canadian citizen (with valid passport), or
  • Hold permanent residency in Canada and possess a valid passport, or be on a student visa or a temporary work visa. Call BUNAC for separate instructions.

To be a support worker on camp (office/kitchen/maintenance), you must ALSO be:

  • a full-time, degree-level student at an accredited university or college. Proof of 2011-2012 enrolment must be provided.

Documents Required for the Application

All applicants! Here’s what we need from you before we can issue your DS-2019:

  • Can-Camp 2012 Application Form for DS-2019 completed online.
  • Program fee ($250 for a first-time applicant, $225 for a returner) and insurance premium (if applicable). Fees are payable to BUNAC, in US dollars only, by credit card.
  • Copy of your official camp agreement/contract signed by you and your camp director.
  • Completed Can-Camp Reference Form.
  • Copy of police background check dated after 1st January 12.
  • A copy of the personal details page in your passport.

Returners! Send ONLY IF APPLICABLE, in addition to the above:

  • If going to a different camp in 2012, a short written recommendation from your former camp director (an email to cancamp@bunacusa.org is acceptable).
  • If returning to camp but through BUNAC for the first-time, send a copy of the previous J-1 stamp in your passport.