Information for J-2 Dependents

J-2 visa holders are the spouse and/or unmarried children under 21 years of age who accompany or later join the J-1 Exchange Visitor in the United States.

J-2 visa holders are allowed to engage in full- or part-time study and they can apply to USCIS for work authorization after having arrived in the United States.

Each J-2 has their own DS-2019 and J-2 visa stamp in their passport.

If the primary J-1 exchange student is subject to 212(e) (the two year home residency requirement), the dependents, or J-2s, are also subject. Please see the explanation of this requirement on the J-1 2-year Residence Requirement website page.

All J-2 visa holders must carry and maintain health insurance for the entire length of the J-1 exchange visitor's program while in the United States.

If a J-2 wants to change to J-1 status, this would be considered a change of status and the J-2 must abide by the rules of changing status. J-2s wishing to change to J-1 status are encouraged to make an appointment with their A/RO.

J-2s wishing to apply for work authorization in the United States should contact their A/RO.

Finally, a J-2 can remain in the United States as long as the principal J-1 visa holder has valid J-1 status. A J-2 is dependent on the principle J-1 visa holder. If the principal J-1 violates status and is terminated, the J-1 and their J-2 dependents are also out of status and must leave the United States.