J-2 Visa
A J-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa issued by the United States for spouses and dependents (unmarried children under the age of 21) of J-1 exchange visitors who accompany or later join the J-1 holder in the United States.
Eligibility
- Spouse: The spouse of a J-1 visa holder is eligible for a J-2 visa.
- Unmarried Children: Unmarried children under the age of 21 of a J-1 visa holder are eligible for a J-2 visa.
Key Points
- Dependent Status: J-2 visa holders are considered dependents of the J-1 visa holder.
- Employment: J-2 visa holders are generally not authorized to work in the U.S. However, they can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to work.
- Study: J-2 visa holders can study in the U.S. but may need to obtain a separate student visa for certain programs.
- Duration of Stay: The J-2 visa is valid for the duration of the J-1 visa holder’s program.
- Two-Year Home Residency Requirement: J-2 visa holders may be subject to the two-year home residency requirement if their J-1 principal visa holder is subject to it.
Application Process
The J-2 visa application process is typically simpler than the J-1 visa process. The J-1 visa holder’s sponsor will issue a DS-2019 Form to the J-2 dependents, which they will need to submit along with their visa application.
Frequently Asked Questions
A J-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa issued to the spouse and unmarried children (under 21) of a J-1 visa holder. It allows them to accompany or join the J-1 visa holder in the U.S.
Generally, J-2 visa holders are not authorized to work in the U.S. However, they can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) under specific circumstances.
Yes, J-2 visa holders can study in the U.S. However, for certain programs, they might need to obtain a separate student visa
The J-2 visa is valid for the duration of the J-1 visa holder's program.
Yes, J-2 visa holders may be subject to the two-year home residency requirement if their J-1 principal visa holder is subject to it. This means they may need to return to their home country for two years before applying for certain types of visas, such as an H-1B or green card.