Pathways International

http://www.pathwayshouse.org/bm/student-info/student-FAQs/index.shtml

Valuable information & Frequently Asked Questions

Tips, Questions and Answers about travel, the Outer Banks, your visa and more.

Information for Departing Students:  

Question #1. Do I need a North Carolina driver’s license to drive a car in the Outer Banks?

A. No. To drive in North Carolina you will need a driver’s license, but according to NC law, temporary international visitors on programs such as the J-1 Work/Travel program, can drive in North Carolina using an International Driver’s License. However, this privilege is temporary (30 days from entry into the country.)  To purchase a car you must have a North Carolina driver’s license.

Question #2. How difficult is the written test for a driver’s license?

A. The test consists of multiple choice questions (about 25).  A failing score is more than three wrong answers.  Questions are cleverly worded and must be read carefully. All of the answers can be found in the Department of Motor Vehicles “ Driver’s Handbook” which you may can find on the DMV’s website or at Pathways.  Important: read carefully the blue and red colored boxes on each page. 

Question #3. Is it possible to extend my J-1 visa?

A.  Unfortunately no, the Work/Travel Program has no provisions for visa extensions.

Question #4. Is it possible to convert my J-1 visa to another visa type – for example, to a Student Visa?

A. Yes, it is possible (but not easy). This is not a new visa but a status change to F-1; education. To qualify for this, you must be accepted by a qualified educational institution and you must have a sponsor capable of guaranteeing significant living and study expenses. If interested in speaking with someone at College of the Albemarle on the Outer Banks, call for an appointment; (252.473.2264).

Question #5.  Is my employer authorized to withhold Social Security payments from my paycheck?

A. No. If your employer does not know this, you may refer him to your agency or Pathways.  We can furnish the needed Social Security documentation that establishes this exception.

Question #6. If I do not participate in the Social Security program, why do I need to register for Social Security in order to be qualified for employment?

A. Registering with Social Security is a national requirement for the SWT program participants. You can, however, proceed to work and be paid by your employer while you are waiting for your social security card to arrive.