J-2 Advising

Scholars and students currently in J-1 status who wish to add their legally married spouse and/or unmarried minor children (under 21 years old) as J-2 dependent status will need to obtain a Form DS-2019 for each dependent.  

The J-2 status is for "accompanying spouse and dependents" and thus are expected to reside with the J-1 principal. A Spouse or dependent(s) residing apart from the J-1 principal should obtain their own primary nonimmigrant status according to their purpose for being in the U.S. However, the J-1 and spouse or dependent(s) do NOT need to travel to the U.S. together.

All other relatives who wish to come to the U.S. to visit should apply for B-2 (tourism and visit) visa status or the Visa Waiver Program, if eligible.

Find instructions on how to request a DS-2019 on our J-2 Requests page.

J-2 dependents are eligible for part-time or full-time study at every level of education. However, ISEO recommends that a J-2 dependent who plans on enrolling in an undergraduate or graduate program of study make an appointment to speak to an ISEO advisor about the benefits of changing status to a student visa. Dependents should weigh the options of changing their status to F-1 versus remaining in J-2. To receive compensation for services rendered, such as a teaching assistantship, a J-2 student must have an EAD card.

Dependents must show proof of ineligibility of a Social Security Card with a denial letter from the Social Security Administration or apply for a number, if eligible (via J-2 Employment Authorization), prior to applying for a Driver License.

For more information, review our Driver License page.