Work Authorization for J-2 Dependents

J-2 dependents are eligible to apply for a work permit in the U.S. The application process takes 3-4 months and when the application is approved, the J-2 dependent will receive an employment authorization document (EAD).  The J-2 dependent may not begin employment until EAD card is received in hand.  With a valid EAD, a J-2 dependent may work in any job, full- or part-time, paid or unpaid.  The EAD card is usually valid for one year or the duration of the DS-2019 whichever is shorter.  Extensions are possible, but also takes a few months for approval.   Therefore, to ensure continuous work authorization, J-2 dependents should reapply 3-4 months before their current EAD expires.  To apply for an EAD, the J-2 dependent must be currently in the U.S. and should complete the following steps:

1. Complete the I-765 Form:
   • For question 24, write “J-2 dependent”
   • For question 25, write “J-2 dependent”
   • For question 27, write “(c)(5)”
   • Don’t forget to sign the I-765 form and include your telephone number and date
   • Also, complete form G-1145 to receive a notification when USCIS accepts your application
2.  Attach the following documents:
   • A Letter from the J-2 dependent requesting work permission indicating that their employment is not necessary to support the J-1 due to the fact that the J-1 has adequate funding (specify J-1 exchange visitor's funding source and amount.   The letter should state that personal income earned by the J-2 will be used for recreational and cultural activities (such as travel, vacation, incidental courses, etc.)
   • Funding evidence - copy of J-1’s financial documents
   • DS-2019’s – for both J-1 and J-2
   • I-94 records - for both J-1 and J-2 – download from https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home
   • Visa copy - for both J-1 and J-2
   • Passport copy – for both J-1 and J-2
   • Two U.S. passport sized Photos (taken at CVS or Walgreens)
3.  Attach the payment of $520
   • If using a check to Form I-765 (staple or paperclip):
     • Make check to: U.S. Department of Homeland Security
     • Write your name and I-765 application in the check's memo field
     • If you don’t have checks, you can request a Money Order through USPS
   • If using a credit card
     • Complete the form G-1450, with the credit card information
4. Mail to USCIS (we recommend using UPS, FedEx, or DHL to obtain a tracking number):

• J-2 work authorization application cannot be filed online, unlike some other categories 
• See the current mailing address: https://www.uscis.gov/uscis-lockbox-filing-locations-chart 

Do I need an EAD if I am just volunteering? 

“Unpaid position” is not equal to “volunteer position”. Without EAD, it is only possible to work in a bona fide “volunteer” position. A bona fide “volunteer” position is a position that no individual, including a U.S. citizen, would be paid by performing similar duties, it is usually associated with a non-profit organization (e.g. Red Cross, Animal Shelter, Churches etc.). If you are not getting paid only because you don’t have work authorization in the U.S., while others are, by performing similar duties, it is considered unauthorized work and it is a violation of J regulations.