How long can J-2 visa holders stay in the United States?

J-2 visa holders can stay in the United States for the duration of the J-1 visa holder’s program. Extensions must be tied to the J-1 visa status.

Can J-2 visa holders work in the United States?

Yes, J-2 visa holders can apply for work authorization by submitting Form I-765 to USCIS.

Are J-2 visa holders allowed to study in the United States?

Yes, J-2 visa holders are permitted to attend school while in the United States.

Do J-2 visa holders have to pay the SEVIS fee?

Yes, each J-2 applicant must individually pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.

Can J-2 visa holders travel outside the United States?

J-2 visa holders may travel in and out of the United States, but they must ensure their visa is still valid for re-entry.

How long does it take to process a J-2 visa?

Processing times can vary based on the individual embassy or consulate, but typically it may take several weeks.

Are J-2 visa holders subject to the two-year home-country physical presence requirement?

Yes, if the J-1 visa holder is subject to this requirement, their dependents on J-2 visas will also be subject to it.

Can a J-2 visa holder change their status to another visa type?

Yes, J-2 visa holders may apply to change their status to another non-immigrant visa type, subject to eligibility.

What should I do if my J-2 visa application is denied?

Carefully review the reasons for denial provided by the consulate and consult with your J-1 program sponsor for advice on how to proceed.

Can J-2 visa holders apply for a Social Security Number (SSN)?

Yes, but only after obtaining work authorization via Form I-765.

United States of America J-2 Dependent of J-1 Visa Guide

Find out everything you need to know about United States of America J-2 Dependent of J-1 Visa application process and requirements.

What Is the United States of America J-2 Dependent of J-1 Visa?

The J-2 visa is designed for dependents of J-1 exchange visitors in the United States. Specifically, this includes spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 of individuals holding a J-1 visa. The goal of the J-2 visa is to allow families to stay together while the primary visa holder participates in their exchange program. Benefits of the J-2 visa include the ability for the dependent to apply for work authorization and attend school during their stay in the U.S., making it easier for families to maintain their normal life routines despite being abroad.

J-2 Dependent of J-1 Visa Requirements for United States of America

Explore the key requirements for obtaining your J-2 Dependent of J-1 Visa for United States of America. This section covers the necessary documentation, eligibility criteria, and any specific conditions you must meet to successfully apply for and secure your visa.

DS-2019 Form
This Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status is issued by your J-1 sponsor and required for each J-2 visa applicant.
Proof of Relationship
Documentation such as marriage certificates for spouses and birth certificates for children to demonstrate their relationship to the J-1 visa holder.
Completed DS-160 Form
Each J-2 applicant must complete this online form prior to scheduling a visa interview.
Paid SEVIS I-901 Fee
A receipt showing payment of the SEVIS fee is necessary for all J-2 applicants.
Passport
A valid passport for each J-2 applicant, with an expiry date at least six months beyond the intended period of stay.
Recent Photograph
A suitable photo of each J-2 applicant as per the U.S. visa photo requirements.
Visa Application Fee Payment
Proof of payment for the non-refundable visa application fee.

How to Apply for United States of America J-2 Dependent of J-1 Visa

Understand the process of applying for an United States of America J-2 Dependent of J-1 Visa, including key steps, document submission, and what to expect throughout the application.

Verify Eligibility
Make sure that your family members (spouse and unmarried children under 21) are eligible for the J-2 visa. They must be dependents of a J-1 visa holder.
Get a DS-2019 Form
You will need to request a DS-2019 form from your J-1 program sponsor for each J-2 applicant. This document certifies that the dependent is accompanying the J-1 visa holder.
Pay the SEVIS Fee
All J-2 visa applicants must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. Keep the receipt as you will need it for your visa application.
Complete DS-160 Form
Each J-2 applicant must complete the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form. You'll need to upload a recent photo and pay the associated visa application fee.
Schedule Visa Interview
Once your DS-160 form is completed, schedule an appointment for a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate. Make sure to gather all required documentation for your interview.
Attend Visa Interview
Bring all necessary documents, including the DS-2019, DS-160 confirmation page, proof of SEVIS fee payment, passport, photo, and any additional documents requested by the consulate.
Receive Visa
If your interview is successful, you will be notified when and where you can pick up your passport with the J-2 visa stamp.

Useful United States of America J-2 Dependent of J-1 Visa Resources

U.S. Department of State

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)

Visa Information & Application

United States of America J-2 Dependent of J-1 Visa Advice

If you're looking to bring your family with you while on a J-1 visa in the United States, the J-2 visa is your best bet. Make sure all your paperwork is in order, especially the DS-2019 forms for both the J-1 and J-2 applicants. Also, be aware that while the J-2 visa allows for work authorization, it needs a separate application process (Form I-765). Plan ahead to make the transition smoother for your family.

United States of America J-2 Dependent of J-1 Visa Guide

What Is the United States of America J-2 Dependent of J-1 Visa?

J-2 Dependent of J-1 Visa Requirements for United States of America

DS-2019 Form

Proof of Relationship

Completed DS-160 Form

Paid SEVIS I-901 Fee

Passport

Recent Photograph

Visa Application Fee Payment

How to Apply for United States of America J-2 Dependent of J-1 Visa

Verify Eligibility

Get a DS-2019 Form

Pay the SEVIS Fee

Complete DS-160 Form

Schedule Visa Interview

Attend Visa Interview

Receive Visa

Useful United States of America J-2 Dependent of J-1 Visa Resources

United States of America J-2 Dependent of J-1 Visa Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

United States of America Passport Details and Ranking 2024