J-2 Work Authorization
J-2 visa holders (dependents of J-1 visa holders) are eligible to apply for work authorization from USCIS upon arrival to the US. In general, a J-2 dependent can apply for work authorization by submitting a Form I-765 and supporting documents to USCIS. Upon approval, the applicant will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) authorizing work on a part-time or full-time basis.
Applicants must demonstrate that the principal J-1 visa holder is maintaining their J-1 status, and that the J-2 employment will be supplementary (not used to support) the J-1 visa holder. The EAD will generally be authorized in one-year increments, with the ability to extend should the J-1 visa holder’s status also be extended.
J-2 visa holders must submit the following to USCIS:
- G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
- Check or money order for the I-765 filing fee, payable to U.S. Department of Homeland Security
- Letter explaining why work authorization is sought and how the employment will be supplemental to the J-1 visa holder’s income/funding
- Photocopies of the J-2 and J-1’s current and prior DS-2019s
- Two passport photos
- Copy of the J-2 passport identification page
- Copy of the J-2 visa stamp page
- Copy of J-2 I-94 record
- Copies of any Employment Authorization Document (EAD) cards previously issued to the J-2
- Copy of the J-2’s driver’s license or other photo identification, if available
- Marriage certificate (if spouse of the J-1), or birth certificate (if child of the J-1 under the age of 21)
Please contact the International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO) with any questions at ISSO@uml.edu.