(Dependents of Persons Under J-1 Status)

Dependents of J-1 exchange visitors, who receive J-2 nonimmigrant status upon entering the United States, may be eligible for employment authorization, provided the income generated by such employment will not be used to support the J-1 principal.

J-2s MUST apply to USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) for and receive an employment authorization document (EAD) before commencing any form of employment.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

J-2 applicants need to submit the following items to USCIS:

1. Completed U.S. Department of Justice Application for Employment Authorization ( Form I-765) ;
2. Check or money order in the amount of $175 made payable to: United States Citizenship and Immigration Services ;
3. Photocopy of Form I-94 (front and back) of J-1 (student or scholar);
4. Photocopy of Form I-94 (front and back) of J-2 (dependent);
5. Photocopy of current Form DS-2019 (both J-1 and J-2);
6. Cover letter (download sample cover letter);
7. Photocopy of the first three pages in passport (clear copy of passport and/or visa photo required);
8. Two (2) passport type photos and
9. Mail the documents by certified mail with return receipt to the following address:

USCIS Texas Service Center
P. O. Box 851041
Mesquite, TX 75185-1041