J-2 dependents may apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)  for permission to accept employment if such employment is needed for the support of the dependent(s), but not for the support of the J-1.  The application should include:

• Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization [item #16, the eligibility category for J-2 dependents should be noted as (c)(5)( )];

• Documentary evidence of the J-1's funding, which may include UCD salary noted on the DS-2019, sponsor's letter, or bank statements;

• Documentary evidence of the relationship of the J-2 and the J-1, such as a marriage certificate and/or birth certificate of children;

• Letter based on SISS sample (see below);

• Two photos (For photo requirements click here);

• Fee of $180 ($340, effective 7/30/07), check or money order payable to USCIS with the J-2's name clearly printed in the memo line on the front of the check;

• Photocopy of J-2's I-94 (both sides);

• Photocopy of J-1's DS-2019;

• Photocopy of J-1's I-94 (both sides); and

• Photocopy of previously issued Employment Authorization Document (EAD), if applicable.

• Photocopy of the J-2's DS 2019

The application should be sent by CERTIFIED MAIL with return receipt requested to the address on the sample letter (below).  Please be sure to copy all documents and forms before you send them, including your check, and to save any receipts or notices you receive from USCIS.

After processing your materials to determine your eligibility, USCIS will issue you an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and mail it to you within California.  If you will be moving out of California, you must provide a California address.  If you change your address after submitting your application, you must notify SISS and the Post Office of this change. 

J-2 employment authorization is valid for any kind of employment without limitation as to full-time or part-time and expires at the same time that the J-1's authorized stay expires.  Note that employment will be authorized only for the period covered by the J-1's DS-2019.  Extension of stay must be accomplished before further employment authorization.  If you wish to request an extension of the J-2 employment authorization, you may do so only after extension of stay.

J-2s may not work beyond the ending date of the approved period even if an application for extension of stay and work authorization has been filed with USCIS.  To avoid an interruption of your approved employment, submit your application for extension no later than 90 days prior to the expiration date.
 

Please print or type the following letter on a separate piece of paper, filling in the missing information.  Sign it, and include it with your employment authorization application packet.

Contact Simone Kueltz, Scholar Specialist for J-1 scholars, for more details.