Prohibited Jobs
Longread

Prohibited Jobs

The Work and Travel USA program has certain restrictions on working in certain cities, states, and in specific positions. All job offers you receive are reviewed by the sponsor to ensure they meet the program requirements and U.S. Department of State regulations. The job must be seasonal or temporary, which means that it is only needed at certain times of the year. For example, in the summer when employers need more employees. The program is designed to protect the rights of American workers, so Work and Travel participants are not allowed to take positions that could compete with local workers in permanent positions. What restrictions apply: 1. Forbidden Regions: * Alaska: you can't work in fishing and fish processing plants. * Hawaii: some positions in the hospitality industry may be limited. 2. Prohibited Positions: * Positions that could ruin the reputation of the exchange program. * Work requiring investment of own funds (e.g. for inventory). * Domestic staff: nannies, caregivers, drivers, gardeners and other positions in private homes. * Drivers of any vehicle, including cycle rickshaws and golf carts. * Any job that involves contact with patients. * Working in the adult entertainment industry. * Working night shifts (10pm to 6am). * Hazardous work as specified by the U.S. Department of Labor (e.g., operating heavy machinery). * Work involving constant physical contact (e.g., tattoo parlors, massage parlors). * Positions where pay is solely dependent on sales and there is no minimum wage guarantee. * Work related to gambling and betting. * Any work in warehouses, wholesalers and pest control. * Positions involving the processing of personal data (e.g. tax services). * Working in places where you won't be able to regularly interact with Americans and immerse yourself in their culture. * Work in major cities, unless it is seasonal, due to high costs of living and transportation. 3. Restrictions on working hours: * Program participants may not work more than 40 hours per week unless approved by the sponsor. Overtime work is allowed only by prior agreement. If you are offered a position that may violate these rules, be sure to contact the program coordinator to avoid potential problems with the sponsor's job approval. Related topics: - Popular Jobs Among Participants - Work in cafes and restaurants - Working in hotels - Working in amusement parks - Work in stores - Working as a lifeguard