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Home > Maintaining Your Visa Status > J-1 Research Visa > Family Dependents

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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 Employment Authorization Has Been Submitted

  • 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.

Extension of J-2 Employment Authorization

  • 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.
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