FAQs

  • The C1/D Visa is a combination visa for crew members working on international vessels (primarily cruise ships and maritime vessels).

    C1 = Transit Visa (allows you to transit through U.S. ports)
    D = Crew Member Visa (allows you to work as crew on the vessel)

  • The J-1 Visa is a non-immigrant visa for participants in work and study-based exchange visitor programs. It promotes cultural exchange between the U.S. and other countries.

  • For H2B and C1/D programs: Our services are completely FREE to candidates. We never charge application fees, placement fees, or recruitment fees. The employer pays us. The $205 USD visa application fee is covered by you. Extensions are $1,500.

    For EB3 program: There is a $3,000 USCIS fee that covers your Green Card submission including document preparation, PERM support, I-140 assistance, and ongoing guidance. Your employer also covers the immigration lawyer needed for the embassy interview

    For J-1 program: You'll pay the J-1 sponsor organization directly (typically $500-2,000 for program administration). TRC helps connect you with reputable sponsors but the sponsor charges their own fees per U.S. regulations.

    What you WILL pay (all programs):

    • U.S. visa application fees (paid to U.S. government/embassy)

    • Medical examination (required for immigration)

  • H2B:

    • Employer often provides housing or assistance

    • Housing deduction: Typically $150 per paycheck

    • Shared accommodations (roommates)

    • Deductions only start after you get paid

    EB3:

    • Employer finds housing for the first year

    • Salaries are sufficient for independent living

    • Can rent apartments or eventually buy homes

    • Family housing available

    C1/D:

    • Housing is your cabin onboard the ship

    • Shared cabin with 1-3 roommates

    • Crew facilities included

    • All utilities, internet included

    J-1:

    • Varies by program

    • Some sponsors arrange housing

    • Some you find your own

    • Costs vary: $400-1,000/month depending on location

    • Often shared housing with other J-1 participants

  • H2B: No - H2B workers cannot bring dependents. You travel alone.

    EB3: YES! This is the major benefit. Spouse and children under 21 can accompany you. They receive Green Cards too. Spouse can work freely.

    C1/D: No - Crew members travel alone due to ship space limitations and contract terms.

    J-1: Depends on program. Some J-1 categories allow J-2 dependents (spouse and children) who can accompany you. Check specific program rules.

  • Great question! Here's how to verify TRC is real:

    ✅ Check our credentials:

    • Registered business in Gwinnett County, Georgia

    • Find us on LinkedIn

    • Google Business listing

    • Active website with real contact information & face to face/phone interviews

    ✅ We NEVER ask for:

    • Large upfront fees for H2B, C1/D, or J-1 (EB3 has disclosed $3,000 fee)

    • Payment before you receive a pre offer letter

    • Your bank account information upfront

    • Money for "visa guarantees" or payment to be a part of this program (illegal!)

    ✅ Red flags of scams (we don't do these):

    • Guarantee visa approval (no one can legally guarantee)

    • Pressure you to pay immediately

    • Request payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency

    • Poor English in communications

    • No physical address or phone number

    ✅ What legitimate TRC does:

    • Free consultation and interview

    • Clear written offers and job agreements

    • Transparent about timeline and costs

    • Professional communication

    • Responsive to questions

    • Provide legitimate jobs with great salaries

  • No Refund Policy - Important Information

    The Recruitment Compass operates under a strict no refund policy.

    Why?

    The $205 visa application fee you pay is submitted directly to the U.S. Embassy on your behalf. The U.S. government does not issue refunds for visa fees under any circumstances, regardless of processing times, delays, or application outcomes.

    TRC does not retain these fees - we submit them to the U.S. government as part of your official visa application.

    Good News:

    Once your visa is approved and you begin working, your employer will reimburse your $205 visa fee as part of your employment benefits.

    Timeline Expectations:

    The visa process typically takes 2-6 months and is subject to U.S. Embassy processing times and immigration policy, which are beyond TRC's control.

    By using our services, you acknowledge this no refund policy and understand visa fees are non-refundable once submitted to the U.S. government.