An Exchange Visitor may be accompanied by her or his dependent(s) at any time. Children age 21 or older are not eligible to enter as the dependent of a J-1 Exchange Visitor. It is most common to issue a dependent (J-2) DS-2019 at the same time as the J-1 scholar’s documentation, but not required. OIS does not charge any fees to issue J-2 DS-2019s, nor are J-2 dependents required to pay the SEVIS fee.
Two-Year Home Residence Requirement
If the J-1 is subject to the Two-Year Rule the J-2 is also subject. J-2 dependents must fulfill the requirement on their own, however, if the J-1 receives a waiver the J-2 is also released. For more information please see the 2-Year Home Residence Requirement section.
Travel
The same rules apply to J-2 travel as to travel by J-1 Exchange Visitors. This means the J-2 should have:
- Valid Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of the re-entry to the U.S.)
- Valid J-1 visa in passport (except scholars from Canada)
- DS-2019 with a valid travel endorsement from an OIS advisor (signatures are valid for 6 months)
More information can be found in the travel section.
Work
Dependents of J-1 Exchange Visitors are allowed to work in the U.S. This authorization can be applied for once the J-2 has entered the country. OIS does not recommend applying any sooner than 30 days after arrival in the U.S. Applications submitted sooner than this waiting period may lead Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS) to wonder if the dependent came to the U.S. as a bona fide J-2 or simply to avoid applying for a work visa.
The Exchange Visitor is responsible for submitting the application to CIS. However, OIS is happy to provide the application materials as well as look them over before mailing. The application is available at the front desk and advisement is available by appointment. Please call the OIS front desk at (213) 740-2666 to make an appointment.
*Please note the fact that J-2 dependents are allowed to work is not a sufficient reason to change one’s status to J-1. CIS is likely to deny such requests.
English Language Program
OIS’ English Language Program has been offering free English classes to international dependents and J-1 scholars for over 30 years. In addition to English classes during the Fall and Spring semesters, ELP participants enjoy regular outings and celebrations. More information is available here.