Adding a J-2 Dependent

You may request J-2 status for your spouse or unmarried children under age 21. Their eligibility to stay legally in the U.S. is dependent upon you maintaining your J-1 maintaining status.

All other family members must apply for a B-1 or B-2 visitor's visa to gain entry to the U.S.

How to Request a J-2 DS-2019

To add a dependent, you must:

Submit the Dependent DS-2019 Request in accessVIS
Upload all required documents and funding proof
Receive a DS-2019 for each dependent from VIS
Sign the DS-2019 before giving it to your dependent

After the DS-2019 Is Issued

Your dependent must:

Apply for a J-2 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate
Enter the United States using their J-2 visa and DS-2019

After arrival, you must:

Submit their documents (DS-2019, passport, visa, and I-94) to VIS through the Immigration Intake for J-2 Dependents accessVIS

Health Insurance Requirement

You must ensure that your dependents:

Have health insurance that meets U.S. Department of State requirements
Maintain coverage for the entire time they are in the U.S.

Failure to maintain insurance may result in loss of J status.

Important Responsibilities

You must:

Report if your dependent leaves the U.S. permanently or changes status
Keep all dependent information accurate and up to date in accessVIS
Ensure your dependents follow all J-2 rules and requirements

Work and Study for J-2 Dependents

Your dependent may study in the U.S.
Your dependent may apply for work authorization (EAD) after arriving

Your dependent cannot work until the EAD is approved and received.