J-1 Scholars/Exchange Visitors

J-2 Dependent Information

Spouses and children of those in J-1 status are permitted to apply for J-2 dependent status. Depending upon your family's circumstances and plans, this may be the best status, but B-2 visitor status is also an option. When making such decisions, the following details associated with the J-2 status should be considered.

• J-1 and J-2 program participants have a 30 day grace period beyond the ending of the J-1 scholar's research program. During the grace period, it is appropriate to travel around the U.S., make travel arrangements, pack belongings, but work is not permitted during that period. There is no possible extension of the grace period;
• J-2 dependents may request authorization to work in the U.S. by applying to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, application enclosed, and may work anywhere for any number of hours;
• J-2 dependents must have work authorization first before engaging in ANY type of work, including child care for others, cleaning, independent selling or marketing, research, or academic assistantships;
• J-2 dependents may study in a degree or non-degree program of study in the U.S. (this law may change in the future);
• J-2 dependents must be continuously insured for injuries or illness as described on page two of the DS-2019 form for the entire duration of their stay in the U.S.;
• In order to travel outside the U.S., a travel signature is needed on the DS-2019 form of each person traveling, and a valid visa and passport is generally required for re-entry to the U.S;
• If you return home permanently or change address, this must be reported to the Center for Global Engagement. Dependents may live in a separate location from the J-1;
• J-2 dependents are subject to the two-year rule if their J-1 spouse is subject (this affects any change of status in the U.S., and any change to H, L, or permanent residency);
• J-2 dependents are subject to a two year bar on participation as a research scholar (prohibiting immediate transfer from a J-2 dependent status to J-1 research scholar or professor status);
• J-2 dependent status ends when the J-1 is no longer employed or working with FSU (unless transferred to another sponsor);
• J-2 dependent status immediately ends, with no grace period, if a dependent child turns 21, if the J-1 and J-2 divorce, or if the J-1 returns home permanently;
• J-2 status must be terminated for unauthorized employment, criminal activity, violation of J program rules, willful violation or misrepresentation of insurance coverage requirements.

If you, at any time, have questions about the dependent immigration status, and other options for work, travel, study, or other personal or professional needs or concerns, please contact the CGE.

Click Here to download the J-2 Work Authorization Form. It is not necessary to obtain CGE approval in this process.

In order to request a dependent DS-2019 form for your immediate family members, please use the Application to Invite Dependents of J-2 Exchange Visitors to the United States.

Parents, siblings, and other family members who are not your spouse or child are not eligible for the J-2 status.