Family and Dependents
Eligible dependents (spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21) of J-1 exchange visitors may obtain the J-2 visa.
Bringing a dependent to the U.S.
Dependents may apply for a visa at the same time as the principle visa holder or after the principle holder arrives in the U.S. To begin the process, principle exchange visitors need to request a dependent DS-2019 form from the International Services Center (ISC) office. Dependents must then apply to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for a visa. For instruction on both, please contact the ISC.
Benefits and Restrictions of Visa
- May travel in and out of the United States as long as the principle visa holder is maintaining immigration status. Please see travel guidelines for details.
- May enroll in courses full-time or part-time as a degree seeking or non-degree seeking student.
- May apply for work authorization from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as long as employment is not to support the principle J-1 visa holder. Once authorization is obtained, dependents may work full-time or part-time.
- Must provide proof of health insurance throughout their stay in the United States.
FORMS and FILES
(141.5K)
(349.5K)
(257.6K)
(1.3MB)
(156.9K)
(162.2K)
(128.5K)
(94.1K)
(32.7K)
(289.4K)









