Most dependents (a spouse and/or child under the age
of 21) who accompany J-1 students and scholars to the
U.S. hold J-2 status. In this case, their status is
entirely dependent on the status of the J-1 visa holder.
If the J-1 individual extends his/her authorized stay
or changes status in any way, family members must be
included in the application. If the J-1 individual loses
his/her status or leaves the country for more than a
short period of time, the family members with J-2 status
will also lose their status.
For questions regarding dependents, J-1 visa holders should
contact their visa sponsor.
Employment
J-2 visa holders may sometimes apply for work permission
from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
as long as the income from the employment does not support the J-1
visa holder. For information on applying for work permission, contact
the J-1 visa sponsor.
Study
J-2 dependents may be part-time or full-time students.
