Who can be a J-2 dependent?
J-2 dependents (spouse or unmarried child under the age of 21) of a J-1 Exchange Visitor may be eligible to enter the U.S. in J-2 status so that he or she may reside in the United States during the J-1 scholar's program. A child who will turn age 21 while in the U.S. in J-2 status must apply for a different status in order to remain in the United States. The application must be submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services prior to the child’s 21st birthday. Please contact our office at isso@iastate.edu at least three months in advance of your child’s 21st birthday for assistance with this process. Parents and other relatives are not eligible for J-2 status.
How do I request a DS-2019 for a dependent?
Requests for DS-2019 forms for J-2 Dependents are submitted electronically through Cystart. While in the United States, dependents on J-2 status must have health insurance coverage. The J-1 scholar must also prove that he or she is financially able to support dependents. Please go here for financial estimates to bring J-2 dependents to the U.S.
How does a J-2 dependent apply for work authorization?
J-2 dependents may apply to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for permission to work. When granted, this permission is valid for on- and off-campus work and may be full or part time. This permission is obtained by mailing certain documents to USCIS. It may take 90 days or more for the application to be approved. When approval is granted, you will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). You must have the EAD before you begin work. More information, including sample forms, is available in the links below.
My Spouse Is Interested In Work. How Do We Seek Work Authorization?
J-2 dependents may apply to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for permission to work. When granted, this permission is valid for on- and off-campus work and may be full or part time. This permission is obtained by mailing certain documents to USCIS. It may take 90 days or more for the application to be approved. When approval is granted, your spouse will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). J-2 spouses must have the EAD before beginning work. Read in more detail on J-2 Work Permission.
How Do I Enroll My Children in School?
The school your child(ren) will attend depends on where in Ames you live. For further information regarding the public school system in Ames and enrollment, please visit the Ames Community School District website.
What Resources Exist For Childcare?
The process of selecting a childcare provider can be overwhelming. Child Care Aware, run by the Office of Child Care under the Department of Health Human Services, serves as a great place to start. We suggest reviewing the website prior to arriving, to find information on types of childcare in the U.S. and how to select a quality provider. The site also offers state-by-state resources, so that you can easily find information regarding childcare resources in Iowa.
Information regarding childcare within Iowa can be found on the Iowa Department of Human Services’ website under the “Programs & Services” menu, including resources for finding childcare in Iowa.
How Can My Spouse Become Involved In Campus And Ames Community Life?
J-2 dependents are welcome to attend all ISSO-hosted events, as well as any other events on the Iowa State University campus. The Ames Public Library frequently hosts events, including English language practice, children’s activities, and family-friendly events, that could serve to enrich your dependent’s experience in Ames.
The YWCA in Ames regularly hosts events focused on building international relationships in Ames. Information regarding upcoming events can be found on their website.
The Friends of International Women group (see Cross-Cultural Activities) is also open to spouses of Exchange Visitors.