The Office of International Student & Scholar Services (OISSS) can assist a J-1 Exchange Visitor in inviting their dependents to US in J-2 status. Please note a dependent is defined as a spouse or an unmarried child under the age of 21.

Dependents entering the US in J-2 status may pursue part- or full-time degree-seeking coursework and may apply for employment authorization from the US Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS).

To invite your dependent to the US, please submit a request to IS to obtain a DS-2019 “to allow dependents to enter the US”. Your application should include a completed Form OISSS-200: Request for J-2 Dependent, as well as verification of funding for you and your dependent.  You will need to demonstrate funding for you and your dependents for the entire period of your form DS-2019.

When the DS-2019 for your dependent has been processed, you will then send it to your dependent with original financial documents to show complete financial support so he or she may apply for their J-2 visa. Please note, the financial documents submitted to OISSS will not be returned to you.