International Student & Scholar Services

International Programs

J-2 Dependent Status for Spouses and Children

Definition

The spouse and unmarried minor children (under 21 years of age) of the J-1 exchange visitor are eligible for J-2 dependent status.

Form DS-2019

Each J-2 dependent must be in possession of a DS-2019 form.

Initial J-1 Students: If a student is applying for his/her own initial DS-2019 and will be accompanied by dependent(s), he/she needs to be sure to include dependent information (and funding should be adequate) in the appropriate section of the DS-2019 application. The school that has admitted the J-1 to Penn will provide him/her with this application.
Initial J-1 Scholars: When completing the J-1 Exchange Visitor Data Form provided by the J-1's hiring department, the J-1 should fill in the section requesting information on any dependents accompanying him/her to the US.
Continuing J-1 Students and Scholars: When requesting a dependent DS-2019 after the student or scholar is in the US in J-1 status, he/she needs to submit the Request for Service: I-20 or DS-2019 for Dependents form with the appropriate financial funding information. This form is available at the front desk of ISSS.

Employment in J-2 Status

J-2 dependents are eligible to apply for employment authorization from the USCIS as long as the employment is not for the purpose of supporting the J-1. See J-2 Work Permission for instructions.

Study

J-2 children are permitted to enroll in elementary or secondary schools while in the US. Currently, the regulations do not have a prohibition on J-2s engaging in post-secondary study full-time.

Travel and Reentry

J-2 dependents follow the same travel and reentry procedures as the J-1 exchange visitor.

Extension of Stay

The duration of the J-1 visa holder's program is stated in item 3 of the DS-2019. If the J-1 is eligible and applies for an extension of stay, the dependent's period of stay will automatically be extended. To obtain the updated DS-2019 for J-2 dependent, the J-1 should include the J-2's information on the appropriate extension request form. The J-1 should consult with ISSS regarding extension procedures.

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	International Programs Penn Abroad \| ISSS \| IA@Penn