Up to 20,000 of Irish people may have the opportunity to work in the US for up to a year under a new visa deal.
It is hoped that the J-visa programme will be agreed next week.
Under the programme school leavers, young trades persons, and people intending to return to education may apply for a visa to work in the US for one year.
A spokeperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs says that the Minister hopes to conclude the deal while in Washington DC on Wednesday.
Thomas C Foley, US Ambassador to Ireland, said that a job opportunity does not have to be arranged before the visa is granted.
He said this is of great convenience to people who want to take advantage of it.
