Review of the J-1 visa to make US travel tougher for Kiwis

Around 300,000 foreign visitors travel to the United States on a working visa each year.

But New Zealand agencies are concerned a review of the J-1 visa could make it tougher for Kiwis wanting to fulfil their American dreams.

Niall Yates arrived home from the United States, and Camp America, four days ago.

The 20-year-old enjoys working at the US holiday programme so much it's the second time he's been.

"Every year is so different that you experience a whole new summer. It was incredible; it was honestly the best time of my life."

For many young Kiwis, gaining a J-1 visa for a working holiday is made easier with Camp America and nannying programmes.

But President Donald Trump's administration is reviewing all cultural exchange visas, and New Zealand agencies are worried.

International Working Holiday Managing Director Vicki Kenny said the summer work and travel programme she thought might be at risk was the one year working holiday J-1 visa for tertiary students.

International Working Holiday is one of several agencies helping Kiwis to work in the States.

It's the biggest, too- each year they send 800 to Camp America, 50 to Au Pair in America, and another 300 on a post-graduate 12 month work and travel visa, the J-1.

Ms Kenny said the cultural exchange programme was "Good for Kiwis, good for Americans and it's not a threat to taking American jobs."

Although tougher visa restrictions are yet to be put in place, International Working Holidays is concerned about the future of the J-1.

The agency fears changes over the next few years, but for now the US consulate here is still accepting all visa applications for the 2018 working seasons.

International Working Holiday has launched an online petition in a bid to keep Kiwis access to the States through the J-1 visa.

Newshub.