Alto

For participants

Your arrival guide

From packing your documents to your first paycheck: a step-by-step guide to your first weeks on the Florida Panhandle.

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Before you travel

Your sponsor will run a pre-departure orientation and send you instructions. Follow them first: this guide adds what we see participants need on the Panhandle.

  • Documents in your carry-on

    Passport with your J-1 visa, your Form DS-2019, your job offer, your sponsor’s insurance card and your housing address. Keep copies on your phone.

  • Money for your first weeks

    Enough for food, any housing deposit and your first rent until your first paycheck, plus a card that works in the U.S.

  • Your arrival plan

    The nearest airports are Northwest Florida Beaches International (ECP), Destin–Fort Walton Beach (VPS) and Pensacola International (PNS). Confirm how you will get from the airport to your housing.

  • Numbers to save

    Our office, (850) 805-3774; your sponsor’s emergency line; and the Department of State J-1 helpline, 1-866-283-9090.

Your first 72 hours

  • Check your I-94

    After you enter the U.S., download your I-94 arrival record from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and check that it shows J-1 status.

  • Check in with your sponsor

    Your sponsor must validate your program in the government system (SEVIS). Check in exactly as they tell you, as soon as you arrive.

  • Tell us you are here

    Call or visit our Miramar Beach office so we know you arrived safely and can confirm your first shift.

  • Complete your hiring paperwork

    Bring your passport, DS-2019 and I-94. Federal law requires your Form I-9 to be completed by your third day of work. You will also fill in a Form W-4 for taxes.

Your Social Security number

You need a Social Security number to be paid and to file taxes. You apply in person at a Social Security office after your sponsor has validated your program; your sponsor will tell you when. Bring your passport, Form DS-2019, I-94 and a letter from your sponsor authorizing your employment.

You can start working before your card arrives. Your pay is processed while your application is pending, and you give us your number as soon as you receive it.

Your pay

Alto HR pays every two weeks. At onboarding we explain how you will be paid and walk you through your first pay statement, so you can see your hours, your rate and every deduction. If something looks wrong, tell us and we will fix it.

Most banks ask for your passport, Form DS-2019 and proof of your U.S. address to open an account. Your housing agreement or a letter from us usually works as proof of address.

Taxes, simply explained

  • Federal income tax

    Federal income tax is withheld from your pay, based on your Form W-4.

  • Social Security and Medicare

    J-1 students who are nonresidents for tax purposes are generally exempt from these taxes on program work. If they are withheld in error, tell us.

  • No state income tax

    Florida has no state income tax on wages.

  • Your tax return

    You file a U.S. federal tax return after the year ends. Your sponsor can point you to resources for nonresident returns.

This is general information, not tax advice. Your sponsor and the IRS website have the details for your situation.

Health and safety

Your sponsor provides the health insurance your program requires. Carry your insurance card, and use an urgent care clinic for minor illness and the emergency room only for emergencies. In an emergency, call 911.

The Gulf is beautiful and powerful: learn the beach warning flags, never swim alone, and follow lifeguard instructions. Summer heat is serious, so drink water, especially on long shifts.

How it works

  1. Step 1: Before you travel

    Documents in your carry-on, money for your first weeks, and your housing address confirmed.

  2. Step 2: Your first 72 hours

    Arrive, check in with your sponsor, and complete your hiring paperwork with us.

  3. Step 3: Your first weeks

    Apply for your Social Security number, set up your pay and settle into your routine.

Common questions

Can I work before I have my Social Security card?

Yes. You can start work once your hiring paperwork is complete. Apply for your number when your sponsor tells you to, and give it to us as soon as it arrives.

When is my first paycheck?

Alto HR pays every two weeks. We tell you your pay day at onboarding. Your first check covers the hours from your first pay period.

What if my arrival is delayed?

Tell your sponsor and us as soon as you know. We will adjust your first shift and confirm your housing.

Who do I call if something goes wrong?

Call 911 in an emergency. Otherwise call our office on (850) 805-3774, your sponsor, or the Department of State J-1 helpline at 1-866-283-9090, 24 hours a day.