The J-2 visa designation is reserved for the dependants (spouses and children) of J-1 Visa holders. The spouse and children of the principal applicant can apply for a J-2 visa along with the J-1 application or after the principal applicant has already traveled. When applying after the principal exchange visitor has traveled, the following documents are generally required:

• Form DS 2019, SEVIS generated, and approved by the sponsor
• Proof that the principal applicant (the person who received the DS-2019) is maintaining his/her J visa status
• Copy of the J-1's (principal applicant's) visa
• Proof of relationship to the principal applicant
• Proof of sufficient money to cover all expenses in the United States

 

Foreign Nationals with the visa designation of J-2 have specific restrictions including:

• Spouses and children of exchange visitors may not enter the United States before the principal visitor enters for the first time
• Spouses and children of exchange visitors may not engage employment without a work permit