The Union of Students in Ireland is advising those heading on J1s this year to take "extreme precaution".
It comes amid growing uncertainty around Donald Trump's immigration policy, and a crackdown on protests at American colleges.
This warning from the USI - which represents over 300 thousand students around Ireland - is particularly targeted at those who might consider getting involved in activism while in the US this summer.
Every year, thousands of third-level students avail of the J1 visa, which allows them to work and travel in America for up to four months during the summer.
USI President Chris Clifford says the clamp-down on activists, particularly those at pro-Palestine protests, and those critical of Donald Trump is a growing concern:
"Absolutely, I've talked to two or three students today that have said they're going on J1s and they're extremely concerned because they're very involved in their local Students Union."
Taoiseach Not Concerned
Neither the Taoiseach Micheál Martin nor Tánaiste and Foreign Affairs Minister are overly concerned though:
"Most people who go on their J1s are not that focused on activism," said Micheál Martin.
Simon Harris added, "In any country I think you always have to be familiar what the rules and the laws are in that country, that's the advice I'd give anybody going abroad."
However, they do advise anyone travelling stateside to familiarise yourself with the nearest Irish consulate should you need some help.
