J-2 Employment Authorization

Under the current regulations, individuals who are present in the U.S. under the J-2 status are eligible for employment authorization. J-2 dependents wishing to work in the U.S. must first apply for the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In order to complete the application process you will need the following:

• A completed Form I-765 duly completed and signed. The eligibility category for question # 16 is ( C )( 5 )
• 2 Photographs - full color frontal/passport style photographs (find a sample at United States Citizenship and Immigration Services). For more information on photo standards visit the Department of State website or contact the USCIS National Customer Center at 1-800-375-5283
• A copy of your current form DS-2019 and that of the principal alien's (J-1)
• Copies of your passport - Biodata page to include passport expiration date, visa and I-94 card front and back; (Color copies are optional)
• A written statement, with any supporting evidence showing that your employment is not necessary to support the J-1 but is for other purposes e.g. recreational activities. Examples of supporting evidence are: J-1's pay stub and employment letter
• A check or money order for $340 payable to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

Once completed, mail all these documents by certified mail to the following address: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Vermont Service Center, 75 Lower Welden Street, St. Albans, VT 05479-0001.