A dependent applying for a J-2 visa must submit a valid passport, a completed DS-160 form, and a copy of the primary J-1 visa holder's DS-2019 form. Proof of relationship, such as marriage or birth certificates, is essential to establish eligibility. Financial evidence demonstrating the primary visa holder's ability to support the dependent may also be required during the application process.
What Documents Does a Dependent Need for a J-2 Visa Application?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | SEVIS DS-2019 Endorsement Page | Dependents applying for a J-2 visa must submit the SEVIS DS-2019 Form with a valid endorsement on the certification page, which confirms the primary J-1 visa holder's active participation in the exchange program. This endorsement, typically dated within the last six months, is essential for visa approval and entry into the United States. |
| 2 | Principal J-1 Visa Holder’s Status Validation Receipt | Dependents applying for a J-2 visa must submit the Principal J-1 Visa Holder's Status Validation Receipt, also known as the Form I-797 Notice of Action, to confirm valid J-1 status and continuous lawful presence in the United States. This critical document demonstrates official USCIS approval and supports the dependent's eligibility for J-2 visa issuance. |
| 3 | J-2 Marriage or Birth Affidavit | A dependent applying for a J-2 visa must submit a marriage certificate or birth affidavit as proof of the qualifying family relationship with the J-1 visa holder. These documents must be officially certified or notarized to establish legal status and eligibility. |
| 4 | Government-Issued Relationship Certificate | A dependent applying for a J-2 visa must provide a government-issued relationship certificate, such as a marriage certificate for spouses or a birth certificate for children, to verify their familial connection to the J-1 visa holder. This official documentation is essential for establishing eligibility and ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration requirements. |
| 5 | J-2 SEVIS Fee Confirmation | Dependents applying for a J-2 visa must submit the J-2 SEVIS fee payment confirmation along with Form DS-160, a valid passport, and the primary J-1 visa holder's DS-2019 form; the SEVIS fee payment ensures their inclusion in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. Failure to provide the J-2 SEVIS fee receipt can result in visa delays or denials, making it a crucial document in the application process. |
| 6 | J-1 Holder’s Funding Source Documentation | Dependents applying for a J-2 visa must submit documentation confirming the J-1 holder's funding sources, such as scholarship letters, employer sponsorship letters, or financial affidavits demonstrating sufficient funds to cover living expenses. These documents ensure the J-1 principal's financial stability during the stay, supporting the dependent's eligibility for the visa. |
| 7 | Proof of U.S. Residence Address (Principal J-1) | For a J-2 visa application, dependents must provide proof of the principal J-1 visa holder's U.S. residence address, which can include a recent lease agreement, utility bills, or a bank statement showing the J-1's name and physical address. This documentation establishes the dependent's intended residence in the United States and supports the validity of their visa application. |
| 8 | J-2 Visa Sponsor Letter | A J-2 visa applicant must provide a J-2 visa sponsor letter from the J-1 visa holder, confirming their relationship and intent to support the dependent during the stay in the United States. This letter is essential to demonstrate financial responsibility and the legal basis for the dependent's visa application. |
| 9 | Current I-94 Travel Record Copy (Principal and Dependent) | A current I-94 travel record copy is essential for both the J-1 principal visa holder and the J-2 dependent applicant to verify lawful entry and stay in the United States. The I-94 form serves as official proof of arrival and departure records, and its accurate submission is critical for processing the J-2 visa application. |
| 10 | J-2 Education/School Enrollment Letter (For Minor Dependents) | A J-2 visa applicant who is a minor dependent must provide an education or school enrollment letter that confirms current or upcoming school attendance, demonstrating their eligibility for J-2 dependent status. This letter should be official, issued by the educational institution, and include the minor's name, grade level, and enrollment dates to support the visa application process. |
Overview of J-2 Visa for Dependents
What documents does a dependent need for a J-2 visa application? The J-2 visa allows dependents of J-1 exchange visitors to accompany or join the principal visa holder in the United States. Key documents include a valid passport, Form DS-2019 issued to the dependent, proof of relationship to the J-1 visa holder, and evidence of financial support.
Eligibility Criteria for J-2 Visa Applicants
Dependents applying for a J-2 visa must meet specific eligibility criteria to qualify for entry into the United States. Understanding these requirements ensures a smooth application process and adherence to immigration laws.
- Proof of Relationship - Applicants must provide official documents such as marriage certificates for spouses or birth certificates for children to verify their relationship to the J-1 visa holder.
- Valid J-1 Visa Holder Status - The primary J-1 visa holder's status must be active and valid, as the J-2 visa is contingent upon the principal applicant's J-1 classification.
- Financial Support Evidence - Dependents must demonstrate sufficient financial resources or support from the J-1 visa holder to cover living expenses during their stay in the U.S.
Detailed and accurate documentation aligned with eligibility criteria is essential for J-2 visa approval.
Mandatory Passport and Identification Documents
When applying for a J-2 visa, your dependent must present specific mandatory passport and identification documents. These documents are essential to verify identity and support the visa application process.
- Valid Passport - A dependent's passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay in the United States.
- Photograph - A recent passport-size photograph following U.S. visa photo requirements is required for identity verification.
- Birth Certificate or Legal Documents - Official proof of relationship, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate, must be provided to establish dependent status.
Proof of Relationship to J-1 Visa Holder
Proof of relationship to the J-1 visa holder is a crucial requirement for a J-2 visa application. Common documents include marriage certificates for spouses and birth certificates for dependent children.
These documents must be official and, if not in English, accompanied by certified translations. Providing clear evidence of the familial connection helps validate eligibility for J-2 dependent status.
DS-2019 Form: Certificate of Eligibility
The DS-2019 Form, also known as the Certificate of Eligibility, is a crucial document for a J-2 visa application. It verifies the dependent's eligibility and is issued by the program sponsor. You must submit this form along with other supporting documents to complete the application process.
Visa Application Form DS-160 Submission
Dependents applying for a J-2 visa must complete the Visa Application Form DS-160 accurately. This online form is essential for initiating the visa application process.
The DS-160 form requires personal information, travel details, and information about the primary J-1 visa holder. Correct submission of this form ensures proper scheduling of visa interviews for dependents.
Financial Support Evidence Requirements
Financial support evidence is crucial for a J-2 visa application as it demonstrates the dependent's ability to sustain themselves while in the United States. Providing clear proof of financial backing helps consular officers assess the applicant's likelihood to maintain lawful status.
Applicants must submit documents that verify adequate funds to cover living expenses without resorting to unauthorized employment. Consistent evidence of financial resources enhances the credibility of the visa application.
- Form I-134 or Affidavit of Support - A sworn statement from the J-1 visa holder or sponsor indicating their commitment to financially support the dependent.
- Bank Statements - Recent bank accounts statements showing sufficient funds to cover the dependent's stay in the U.S.
- Employment Verification - Proof of income such as pay stubs, employment letters, or tax returns from the J-1 visa holder or sponsor confirming stable financial ability.
Photograph Specifications for J-2 Applicants
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Photograph Specification |
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Processing Fees and Payment Receipts
When applying for a J-2 visa as a dependent, submitting the correct processing fees is essential. Payment receipts must be included to confirm the fee has been paid.
The processing fee amount for a J-2 visa application varies by country but typically ranges around $160. Receipts should show proof of payment made to the correct consulate or embassy. Ensure your payment receipt is clear and legible to avoid any delays during application review.
What Documents Does a Dependent Need for a J-2 Visa Application? Infographic
