Adding a J-2 Dependent After Arrival in the U.S.
OIS Processing Time: 10 business days
An Exchange Visitor may be accompanied by his or her dependent(s) at any time. A J-2’s DS-2019 may be issued along with the J-1’s application or at a later time. OIS does not charge an additional fee to issue J-2 DS-2019s, nor are J-2 dependents required to pay the SEVIS fee. Children age 21 or older are not eligible to enter as J-2 dependents.
To add a new J-2 dependent (spouse or child) after the J-1 has arrived in the U.S., the J-1 must submit the J-1 Dependent DS-2019 Request. For funding requirements, please reference the Funding for J-1 Exchange Visitors webpage.
Travel
The same rules apply to J-2 travel as to travel by J-1 Exchange Visitors. This means the J-2 should carry:
- Valid Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of the re-entry to the U.S.)
- Valid J-1 visa in passport (This does not apply to citizens of Canada.)
- DS-2019 with a valid travel endorsement from an OIS advisor (Signatures are valid for 1 year.)
J-1 Bars
If the J-1 Exchange Visitor is subject to a Bar, the J-2 dependents are also subject. To learn more, please visit our J-1 Bars page.
Employment Authorization
Dependents of J-1 Exchange Visitors are allowed to work part-time or full-time in the U.S. at the job of their choice. You may apply for authorization once the J-2 has entered the country. OIS is not involved in this process but happy to answer any questions you may have.
We recommend waiting at least 30 days after the J-2’s arrival in the U.S. before applying for employment authorization. Applications submitted sooner may lead U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to question whether the individual entered the U.S. as a J-2 to apply for a work visa.
Application Overview
After entering the United States, you can request for employment authorization (by mail) with USCIS.
Step 1: Collect the required application materials listed below. Be sure to make photocopies of your entire application for your records.
Step 2: Mail all required application materials to the appropriate USCIS Service Center. The address is indicated in the I-765 instructions. We recommend you send your application through the U.S. Postal Service by “certified mail/ return receipt requested.”
Step 3: Do not accept employment until you have received your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from USCIS. Processing times are approximately 3 months to be approved.
Step 4: Apply for a Social Security Card once you have receive your EAD.
Application Requirements
- Completed Form I-765 from www.uscis.gov
- Check or money order payable to the Department of Homeland Security in the amount listed for I-765 instructions
Note: Indicate your name and address on check - Letter to USCIS explaining reason requesting employment authorization (Click here for sample letter)
- Copies of both J-1 and J-2 DS-2019s (Do not send the originals.)
- Copy of J-2 visa stamp in passport
- Copy of J-2’s biographical page in passport
- Copies of both J-1 and J-2’s I-94 print-outs
- Two U.S. passport-style photos, with your name and I-94 number printed on the back of each
- Copy of Marriage Certificate translated in English
- Copies of any previously issued EAD cards (if re-applying for J-2 employment authorization)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long can I work for?
The J-2 dependent may work until the end date indicated on the EAD card or until the J-1 principal visitor completes his or her program, whichever is earlier. J-2 can apply to renew work authorization if the J-1 remains in status. If the J-1 extends their DS-2019, the J-2 must re-apply for work authorization following the extension.
Note: Your EAD end-date usually matches the expiration date on the J-1’s DS-2019.
2. Can I still work if the status of the J-1 ends?
Work authorization for the J-2 dependent is always dependent on the status of the J-1. If the J-1 no longer works at USC or changes to a new visa category, the J-2 work authorization automatically ends.
3. Employment authorization renewals
To avoid a gap in employment, OIS recommends that you renew your EAD three months before the end date on your current EAD. You are not permitted to work beyond the previously authorized date. The renewal process is the same as your initial application.
4. Taxes
J-2’s are subject to social security taxes/ federal income taxes. Please consult with a tax accountant.