Family Dependents

The legally married spouse and children of a J-1 Exchange Visitor are eligible for J-2 visa status.

How to Apply for J-2 Employment Authorization

J-2 dependent spouses and J-2 children from ages 16-20 may apply for employment authorization, also known as Employment Authorization Documentation (EAD), from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to work and/or volunteer for an U.S. employer.
Employment authorization is NOT intended to help provide financial support for the basic living expenses of the J-1 Exchange Visitor and/or the J-2 family. If the J-2's income appears necessary to support the family, USCIS will deny the employment authorization request. It is required that Js confirm sufficient funding prior to arrival in the United States.
J-2 employment authorization may be granted to for reasons such as self-fulfillment, personal experience, to experience American culture, etc.
After the J-2 arrives in the U.S., they may request employment authorization via Form I-765. Form I-765 and instructions are located in the "Immigration Forms" section of www.uscis.gov
J-2s whose DS-2019 is sponsored by PIPS may Contact Us to request an EAD checklist, which may help in preparing the EAD application.

After the J-2 submits the EAD application to USCIS, the J-2 can then travel internationally while the employment authorization application is pending.
EAD processing time is usually 3+ months depending on USCIS work volume.
USCIS will send the EAD to the address listed on the I-765 application.
The EAD is normally issued for the length of the DS-2019 or 1 year, whichever is shorter.
After the J-2 receives EAD, they can apply for and receive a Social Security Number.

Form I-765 must be completed again to request an EAD extension. Form I-765 and instructions are located in the "Immigration Forms" section of www.uscis.gov
It recommended that EAD extension requests be submitted at least 4 months before the EAD is due to expire.