APPLICATION PROCESS
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Chilli Adventures application process is quick easy and will take less time than changing your Facebook status! Here’s a brief idea as to how the whole application process works. We’ll give you the full rundown upon application.
Application deadline: 1st November. HOWEVER, please be aware that there are a finite number of DS-2019 visa sponsorships available and that they will be issued on a first come first served basis. Applications will close early if quota has been reached.
 |
Step 1: get info!
Submit your details to Chilli (via the home page, or sms ‘Chilli’ to 33903) and we’ll be in touch to help you get as much info as you can about Winter Work Travel. Attend an info session, pop along to a promo stand on campus, chat to past participants, or log onto Chilli’s Winter Facebook Group. Check out Chillis upcoming events.
|
|
Step 2: Application, Deposit & Interview
Ready to sign up? Click here and complete your application online and make your Application Deposit (R1500). Ensure you use your full name as a reference on the deposit. Bank details:
Henque 2093 cc ta Chilli Adventures - Standard Bank - Thibault Square (020909) - Account: 070906092
Chilli Adventures will call you to set up your interview once we have received your application deposit. Your interview will either be done on campus with one of Chilli’s national team members (who went on the program last year), or at the Chilli Offices.
|
|
Step 3: Paperwork & Acceptance
Ensure all paperwork has been submitted:
Passport Copy
1 x reference
1 x photo
Student Status Form (Stamped & Signed by registrar / department head. The university vacation break period reflected on your student status form will dictate the work period on your DS2019 visa sponsorship paperwork).
Participant Agreement 2009 (terms and conditions)
Third Country National Questionnaire (if you do not hold a South African passport)
Once you have been interviewed and all your paperwork has been submitted, Chilli Adventures will confirm your acceptance onto the program. |
|
Step 4: GAC Session & Program Fee
Attend a GAC (Get a Clue!) Session! This will give you lots of info on putting together a ‘US appropriate’ CV, job hunting, housing, location choices, social security and taxes etc. You’ll also have a chance to meet and chat to returners who may even be able to hook you up with a job with their past employer. At this stage you’ll also need to pay your Program Fee of R3800. Confirmation of payment will then allow Chilli to make the international funds transfer for your DS-2019 from our overseas partners.
Many people choose to book flights at this stage since the chance of visa rejections are small and flight costs are considerably lower if you book them early. Check the refund policy of a ticket when you book it to ensure you understand the risk. |
|
Step 5: Get your visa granted
Chilli will complete all your US Visa Applications (DS-156, DS-157 & DS-158), and assist you with supporting documentation. Your US consulate appointment will be booked for you and your paperwork submitted ahead of your appointment. Passports with visas are typically received back within 3-4 working days. Be aware that all participants must attend consulate interviews in person.If you are applying for your visa in Cape Town or Jo’burg: Chilli Adventures will submit all your Visa paperwork to the US Consulate ahead of your appointment and therefore also require you to submit your passport and supporting documents to Chilli along with your completed Visa Application Questionnaire.
|
|
Step 6: Flight Confirmation or Booking
If you have not booked your flight yet, it’s time to do this ASAP! Chat to Chilli about excellent flight deals. When booking your flight ensure the consultant understands you are on the Winter Work Travel Program with Chilli.
|
|
Step 7: Final Program Payment & Insurance confirmation
Once your visa has been granted it’s time to make your final payment (R1600). If you are looking at traveling longer than three months, then you are required to purchase additional insurance.
4th Month = R110, 5th Month = R210 (Longer policies and baggage cover are also available). |
|
Step 8: PRE-DEPARTURE PREP DAYS!
Chilli Adventures hold Pre-Departure Prep Days around South Africa in September / October. This Prep Day will give you lots of valuable information including: Important Documents, SEVIS Validation, Social Security Application, Employer and Housing information, Gear review (by Cape Union Mart), Insurance details and how to claim, the importance of your DS-2019, how to survive the adjustment of the first couple of days and so much more.... You’ll also have the opportunity to purchase some packing essentials at a discounted price!
|
|
Step 9: FINAL CHECKOUT
Finally, the week prior to your departure for the USA you need to contact Chilli to CHECK OUT. We'll run through a couple of final reminders with you to make sure you’ve not forgotten anything - and of course wish you on your way to the Adventures of a lifetime! |
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Back to top
|
