International Student and Scholar Services
Dependents

Most dependents (a spouse and/or children under the age of 21) who accompany F-1 and J-1 students and scholars to the United States hold F-2 or J-2 status. The F-2 or J-2 status is entirely dependent on the F-1 or J-1 visa holder's status.  If F-1 or J-1 individuals extend their authorized stay or change their status in any way, their family members must be included in the application.  If F-1 or J-1 individuals lose their status or leave the country for an extended period of time, the family members with F-2 and J-2 status lose their status, as well.

Dependents in J-2 Visa Status

Dependents in J-2 status may apply for employment authorization from U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS).  For more information regarding employment for J-2 dependents, please click here.

Dependents in F-2 Visa Status

Current regulations prohibit individuals in F-2 dependent status from working in the United States and/or enrolling in a course of study in the United States.  Part-time, occasional, recreational, and/or avocational classes are permitted.

Dependents in H-4 and TD Status

Dependents of H-1B temporary workers are granted H-4 status, dependents of TN workers are granted TD status and dependents of  O-1 workers are granted O-3 status.  These dependents are not eligible to work in the United States but are permitted to study.