Best Places to Find a J1 Visa Job in Texas

Texas is one of the largest and most diverse states in the United States, making it a popular choice for J1 visa workers. Known for its booming economy, friendly culture, and affordable cost of living compared to states like California and New York, Texas offers great opportunities for J1 visa participants in industries such as hospitality, retail, education, and even technology.

Whether you are part of the Summer Work Travel program or an Internship/Trainee exchange, Texas has plenty of cities and regions where J1 visa holders can secure seasonal and professional positions.

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The Tax Moves Blog

Sep 9, 2025 | Learning IRS

Best Places to Find a J1 Visa Job in California | 2025 Guide

Why Texas is Great for J1 Visa Workers

  • 🤠 Affordable living costs: Housing, transportation, and food are cheaper than in many coastal states.

  • 🌆 Diverse cities: Each major city has its own culture, industries, and job market.

  • 🎉 Tourism and events: Texas hosts major events and festivals that create seasonal jobs.

  • 🏖️ Warm weather: Summers are long and hot, which means extended tourist seasons.

Top Places to Find J1 Visa Jobs in Texas

1. Houston

The largest city in Texas offers opportunities in:

  • Hotels and convention centers.

  • Restaurants and international food chains.

  • Retail shops in The Galleria (Houston’s largest mall).

  • Internships in oil, gas, and engineering companies (for Intern/Trainee visas).

💡 Tip: Houston is highly diverse; Spanish language skills are often an advantage.

2. Dallas

Dallas combines modern business with Southern hospitality. J1 visa jobs include:

  • Hotels near Downtown Dallas and Dallas-Fort Worth Airport.

  • Restaurants, cafés, and catering services.

  • Internships in finance, IT, and logistics companies.

💡 Tip: Dallas has a strong job market for business and technology J1 interns.

3. Austin

Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World” and has a young, vibrant culture. J1 opportunities include:

  • Restaurants, coffee shops, and food trucks.

  • Hotels and hostels serving the city’s growing tourism industry.

  • Internships in tech startups and creative industries.

💡 Tip: Austin is especially popular for J1 Intern/Trainee participants due to its booming tech sector.

4. San Antonio

A historic city famous for The Alamo and River Walk, San Antonio is a top tourist destination. J1 visa holders often work in:

  • Hotels and resorts along the River Walk.

  • Restaurants and bars catering to tourists.

  • Theme parks like SeaWorld San Antonio and Six Flags Fiesta Texas.

💡 Tip: San Antonio offers many seasonal jobs with housing options included.

5. Galveston Island

Located on the Gulf Coast, Galveston is a hub for J1 Summer Work Travel jobs. Common opportunities are:

  • Beach hotels and resorts.

  • Lifeguards, amusement parks, and waterparks.

  • Restaurants and ice cream shops near the beach.

💡 Tip: Summer is peak season in Galveston, making it perfect for J1 students arriving in May or June.

6. South Padre Island

This island is famous for Spring Break tourism, but it also offers summer jobs. J1 visa holders can work in:

  • Beach resorts and hotels.

  • Restaurants, bars, and clubs.

  • Outdoor activities like jet-ski rentals and tour boats.

💡 Tip: Housing is often provided by beachside employers for seasonal staff.

7. Fort Worth

Often paired with Dallas, Fort Worth has a unique Western charm. J1 workers often find jobs in:

  • Hotels near the Stockyards.

  • Restaurants and bars with live music.

  • Retail stores in the historic downtown area.

💡 Tip: Fort Worth employers appreciate workers who enjoy cultural tourism and hospitality.

student organizing DS-2019 documents

8. Corpus Christi

This Gulf Coast city is a hidden gem for J1 visa workers. Jobs are common in:

  • Seaside restaurants and cafés.

  • Hotels and tourist shops.

  • Outdoor activity rentals (kayaks, paddleboards, etc.).

💡 Tip: Corpus Christi offers a relaxed lifestyle compared to bigger Texas cities.

9. Arlington

Home to major attractions like AT&T Stadium (Dallas Cowboys) and Six Flags Over Texas, Arlington creates many J1 jobs in:

  • Theme parks and stadium concessions.

  • Hotels serving sports fans and tourists.

  • Retail shops near entertainment districts.

💡 Tip: Arlington is perfect for students who enjoy sports and large-scale events.

10. College Towns (Austin, College Station, Lubbock, Denton)

Texas has many university towns that host J1 workers in:

  • Cafés, bookstores, and restaurants.

  • Summer events and student housing facilities.

  • Internships at university-affiliated research centers.

💡 Tip: College towns are safe, affordable, and offer strong cultural exchange experiences.

Tips for Finding a J1 Job in Texas

  • ✅ Plan for hot weather: Texas summers are long and intense; expect busy tourist seasons.

  • ✅ Look for coastal opportunities: Galveston, Corpus Christi, and South Padre Island are J1 hotspots.

  • ✅ Network with employers: Many Texas employers rehire J1 participants year after year.

  • ✅ Balance work and culture: Texas offers rodeos, music festivals, and cultural events that enhance the exchange experience.

Best Places to Find a J1 Visa Job in Texas | 2025 Guide

Texas is a top destination for J1 visa participants because of its affordable lifestyle, diverse job market, and welcoming culture. From beach towns to big cities, J1 students and interns can find opportunities that match both their work goals and cultural exchange experience.

💡 Remember: If you work in Texas with a J1 visa, you must file your taxes correctly. With J1 Go Tax, our promise is simple: No Refund = No Fee. We make sure you get the maximum refund possible without paying upfront.

Core Guides & Calculators

1. Learn everything about J1 visa taxes — our complete 2026 step-by-step guide for nonresident workers with W-2 income.

2. Estimate your refund instantly with our J1 visa tax calculator — no signup required.

3. Compare Form 1040 vs 1040NR for J1 visa holders and find out which one applies to you.

4. Understand the importance of your DS-2019 form — it defines your program, tax status, and eligibility.

Forms & Tax Documents

5. Did you receive a 1099 instead of a W-2? Here’s what to do — Form 1099 for J1 visa workers explained.

6. Learn how to apply for your SSN or ITIN as a J1 visa holder before filing your taxes.

7. Understand your IRS transcripts for J1 visa taxes — what they show and how to request them.

8. Received a Form 1042-S? Discover what it means and how to include it in your tax return.

9. Find your Form W-2 for J1 visa — and learn what each box means when you file.

10. File correctly using the official Form 1040NR for J1 visa holders — step-by-step.

11. Don’t forget your Form 8843 — it’s mandatory even if you had no income.

12. Check this J1 visa tax return example using Form 1040NR to understand how everything fits together.

Special Cases & IRS Resources

13. Missed the April deadline? Learn how to file J1 visa taxes after April and still get your refund.

14. Review official IRS guidance on Taxation of J-1 visa holders and resident status.

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