J-2 Dependents
The spouse and dependent children of the J-1 Exchange Visitor may be eligible for J-2 status to accompany the J-1 individual to the U.S. with the proper financial documentation and Baylor's insurance. Children must be under 21; no other family members are eligible. J-2 dependents:
- May enter the U.S. along with or after the J-1, but never before
- Are eligible for employment once they receive approval from USCIS in the form of an EAD card. Click here for I-765, Application and Instructions for Employment Authorization
- May be admitted as a full-time degree seeking student
- May not remain in the U.S. after the J-1 leaves the country or finishes his program
- May apply for a J-2 visa at the U.S. Consulate
Applying for J-2 Status
If the spouse and/or dependent child will accompany the J-1 scholar to the U.S., this information is requested at the time the initial DS-2019 form is issued:
- Complete the Dependent Information on the DS-2019 Request Form
- Provide a copy of each dependent passport
- Provide at the minimum financial documentation for the each dependents(s) as shown below:
Minimum Financial Support
- Scholar - $21,000/year ($1,750/month)
- Spouse - $6,000/year ($500/month)
- Each Child - $4,000/year ($334/month)
J-1/J-2 Health Insurance Requirement
All Exchange Visitors (J-1) and their J-2 dependents are required to provide evidence of insurance that meets the minimum standards set by the U.S. Department of State. If the scholar cannot provide documentation of insurance that meets all requirements, the scholar must purchase Baylor's health insurance for the entire time they participate in an Exchange Visitor program. See "Mandatory Health Insurance Requirement" for more information.