High-level overview
#J-2 is for dependents of J-1 exchange visitors and is tied to the J-1 program sponsorship and DS‑2019 documentation.
J-2 status is tied to the J-1 principal, so timelines and documents often depend on the principal applicant’s program details.
Common documents to prepare
#Identity documents. Valid passports are required, and the document validity should cover the intended travel period.
Relationship evidence. Marriage or birth certificates are common relationship documents for J-2 dependents.
Program sponsor documents. The J-1 program documents often support the J-2 application, depending on the sponsor’s requirements.
Examples
#Example: A spouse applies for J-2 using the J-1 program documents and a marriage certificate to establish the relationship.
Example: A child applies for J-2 with a birth certificate and the principal exchange visitor’s program details.
Common misconceptions
#“J-2 is independent of J-1 status.”
J-2 depends on the principal J-1 exchange visitor’s status and documents.
“Dependents do not need relationship evidence.”
Relationship evidence is required to establish eligibility.
“All dependents follow identical steps.”
Requirements can vary by age and relationship; the exchange visitor page details dependent‑specific steps.
How to plan
#Coordinate timing with the J-1 principal’s program timeline and documents. Gather relationship documents early, especially if official copies or translations are needed.
Interview availability can be a gating step, so monitor wait times for your consular post.
When to talk to a professional
#- Prior denials or immigration violations
- Complex family situations or documentation gaps
- Time-sensitive travel with limited appointment slots
- Unclear relationship evidence
Next steps
#VisaMind helps you align dependent documents with the principal applicant’s timeline and official guidance.
Use the J-1 guide and Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan.
FAQs
Where can I verify official J-2 guidance?
J‑2 is for spouses and children of J‑1 exchange visitors and depends on the J‑1 program sponsorship and DS‑2019.
Is a J-1 principal required?
Yes. J-2 depends on the principal J-1 exchange visitor’s status and documentation.
Do J-2 applicants need a separate interview?
Interview requirements depend on the consular post and applicant profile. The State Department exchange visitor page and post instructions explain requirements.
Are documents different for spouses and children?
Relationship evidence differs by applicant; spouses typically provide marriage certificates and children provide birth certificates.
Sources
Last reviewed: 2026-01-29
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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