Teacher Exchange Fees​

Pre-Departure Fees

These fees cover the initial steps of the application process, including documentation, visa sponsorship, and the necessary preparations for your journey.

1. Application Processing Fee: $2,500

• This non-refundable fee covers the processing of your application, including document review, screening, and matching your qualifications to the school districts. It is due when we secure your job offer.

2. Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE): $300–$500 (varies based on number of transcripts evaluated and service provider)

• This fee is for the evaluation of your foreign degree and transcripts to determine their equivalency to U.S. educational standards. You can arrange this independently or use our recommended services.

3. Visa Sponsorship Fee (J1 or H1B): $3,500–$5,000 (depending on visa type and sponsor)

• This fee covers the administrative costs of processing your J1 or H1B visa through an authorized Visa Sponsor. This includes handling paperwork, visa petition filing, and documentation required by the U.S. government.

4. Document Preparation and Submission Fee: $200

• This fee covers the costs associated with preparing and submitting the necessary documentation for your visa application, such as the DS-2019 form (for J1 applicants) or H1B petition forms.

5. Health Insurance (Required for J1 Visa Holders): $50–$100 per month (depending on

coverage plan)

• As part of the J1 Visa requirements, health insurance must be provided for the duration of your stay in the U.S. The cost depends on the insurance provider and coverage options.
• Paid to the insurance provider.

6. Government Fees

• SEVIS Fee: $220

​- Paid to the Department of Homeland Security

• Visa Appointment Fee: $185

​- Paid to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your Home Country

7. Pre-Departure and Arrival Assistance: $2,900

We are committed to ensuring a smooth transition to your new life in the U.S. through our comprehensive support services, which include:

• Adapting to a new culture
• Tips for cultural adjustment
• Guidance on housing, budgeting, and transportation
• Airport transportation and initial settlement assistance
• Help with obtaining your Social Security Number (SSN)
• Assistance in setting up a bank account
• Support with State ID and driver’s license applications (if applicable)
• Cultural and community integration guidance

These services are thoughtfully designed to make your transition as seamless and stress-free as possible.

8. Flight Booking Assistance: $100 (OPTIONAL)

This fee covers the cost of ICEA assisting with booking your flight to the U.S., helping you find the best deals, and ensuring travel arrangements are smooth and coordinated.

9. International Flights: $800 – $2,000

• Varies greatly depending on port of departure and entry
• Paid to your chosen airline.

10. Initial Expense Fund: $3,000

• You need funds to cover your first month(s) of expenses prior to receiving your first paycheck.
  It is your pocket money

11. Travel Insurance: $50–$100 (depending on policy)

• Travel insurance coverage for emergencies and lost luggage during your journey to the U.S. (Optional, but highly recommended).

• Paid to the insurance provider.

12. Carpool
We understand the importance of reliable transportation in the U.S. Our Carpool Assistance service connects you with trusted carpool options, helping you commute conveniently and affordably. Whether it’s for work, errands, or social activities, we’ll guide you in finding safe and efficient rides to make your daily travel stress-free.

13.  Housing
Finding the right place to live is essential for a smooth transition. Our Housing Support service provides guidance on securing affordable and comfortable accommodations near your workplace. From temporary lodging to long-term rentals, we assist you in navigating the housing market and understanding lease agreements, ensuring you find a home that fits your needs and budget.

Arrival Fees

These fees are incurred once you arrive in the U.S., and they ensure that you are settled into your new environment and have the necessary support for a smooth transition.

Arrival Assistance Fee: $200

o This fee covers the services provided upon your arrival in the U.S.

1. Transportation from the airport, and initial settlement assistance.
2. Social Security Number (SSN) Assistance
3. Bank Account Setup Assistance
4. State ID application Assistance
5. Driver's License Assistance (if applicable)
6. Cultural and Community Support

Payment Plans and Refund Policy

We understand that the application process and associated costs can be significant. To make the process more manageable, ICEA offers flexible payment plans. Please contact us for more information.

Refund Policy: Some fees are non-refundable, especially after services are rendered (e.g., visa sponsorship, document processing, health insurance). However, we will work with you if your visa is denied, and we will explain the refund options based on your situation.

Why are these fees charged?

These fees are essential to cover the costs associated with:

• The administrative and legal services required for visa sponsorship and application processing.
• Pre-departure support, including flight booking, orientation, and necessary paperwork.
• Arrival assistance to ensure a smooth transition into your new role and life in the U.S.
• At ICEA, we are committed to ensuring that your teaching experience is as successful and stress-free as possible, and these fees reflect the comprehensive services we provide at each stage of the process.

Prices are subject to change without prior notice.