The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) has announced its entry into the Irish student travel market with a new, affordable J1 visa product, also known as BridgeUSA, set to launch through its new Dublin office.
Introductory fees for the scheme are significantly currently lower than existing options. In 2025, CIEE plans to expand its offerings to include additional working visa and cultural exchange products for Irish students.
A Natural Step for CIEE in Ireland
With a well-established presence in Ireland as an inbound program provider for U.S. college students since 2006, CIEE’s expansion into direct-to-market programs for Irish students traveling to the U.S. represents a natural progression. “CIEE has been a proud supporter of international exchange for over 50 years, and we are excited to extend these opportunities directly to Irish students,” said Daly.
Making International Experiences More Accessible
CIEE recognises that the financial barrier to J1 and cultural exchange programs can prevent some students from participating. By offering J1 programs directly to students in Ireland, CIEE aims to make international experiences more accessible.
Introductory J1 visa prices will start at €499 for the J1 program, allowing more Irish students to gain valuable global experience without the financial strain typically associated with such programs.
Over 50 Years of Experience in Cultural Exchange
Having indirectly hosted Irish J1 participants in the U.S. for over 50 years, CIEE is dedicated to offering quality cultural exchange programs. Its strong partnerships, including one with the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs through the Douglass – O’Connell Global Internship Program, reinforce CIEE’s commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding.
In alignment with its mission, CIEE is also strengthening its relationship with the African American Irish Diaspora Network (AAIDN) and exploring new opportunities through initiatives like InternHub, its internship portal, to expand access to professional placements.
For more information on CIEE and its programs, visit www.ciee.org or follow @CIEE_J1USA on Instagram and/or TikTok.
