“We experienced a significant reduction in the administrative burden and the
elimination of many typical communication hold-ups associated with the traditional
model of providing immigration services.”
Corporate Counsel
Tokyo Electron
A J-2 visa is issued to spouses and minor children of a J-1
visa holder.
What are the Requirements for a J-2 Visa?
Can J-2 Visa Holders
be Employed?
How Long is the J-2 Visa
Valid?
A J-2 visa is issued to spouses and minor children of a J-1
visa holder.
CHANGE OF STATUS IN THE US:
If the applicant is presently in the United States, in valid status, VISANOW can
file an application for a change of status to J-2 with the USCIS.
J-2 APPLICATION AT A US CONSULATE:
If the applicant is residing outside of the United States, the applicant will submit
Form DS-156 and possibly the DS-157 to the Consular office in the country where
he/she resides. VISANOW can prepare this application on your behalf.
An interview at the local U.S. embassy is required for almost all applicants for
J-2 visas. The waiting times for the interviews will vary. If the J-2 visa is approved,
the embassy will issue a visa stamp in the applicant’s passport within a week of
the interview. The officer may request that some applicants provide additional information.
Applicants for J-2 visas must show:
- That their spouse or parent has been granted J-1 status
- That sufficient funds are available to cover their expenses in the United States;
and,
- That they intend to leave the United States upon the termination of the status of
the J-1 visa holder.
J-2 visa holders may apply to the USCIS for an Employment
Authorization Document (EAD). Upon receipt of the approved EAD, the J-2 visa holder
may begin employment. The J-2 visa holder is authorized to work until the end date
specified on the EAD or until the termination of the status of the J-1 visa holder,
whichever comes first.
A J-2 visa is generally valid for as long as the J-1 student's
visa is valid.