J2 Visa (Family Members of J1 Visa Holders)

A J2 Visa is appropriate for spouse and children of J1 visa holders who want to visit or accompany the J1 visa holder to the United States. A J2 visa may be obtained by a J1 visa holder's spouse and minor children. A J2 visa holder may remain in the United States as long as the J1 visa holder remains in legal status. A J2 visa holder may change his or her status in the United States.  Regarding employment, a J2 visa holder may only apply for a work permit.  In addition, a J2 visa holder may engage in full or part time educational study.

There are particular requirements for obtaining a J2 Visa.  Spouses or children under the age of 21 who wish to accompany or join the principal exchange visitor J1 visa holder in the United States for the duration of his or her stay require exchange visitor visas. The application procedure is the same as that for a primary visa applicant. The sponsor must approve the accompaniment of the spouse and/or children and who will each be issued their own Form DS-2019.

Contact a Texas Immigration Lawyer at Bertolino LLP

Bertolino LLP maintains offices in Austin, Houston and San Antonio. To reach an attorney in the Austin office, call 512.476.5757. For the San Antonio office, call 210.223.5553. For the Houston office, call 713.225.7474. You may also contact the firm by e-mail.