765 J 2 Employment Authorization
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J-2 EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION
Northwestern University - The International Office
630 Dartmouth Place, Evanston, IL 60208-2147
Ph: (847) 491-5613 - Fax: (847) 566-6006
www.northwestern.edu/international - intoff@northwestern.edu
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may grant an individual in J-2 status (dependent of a J-1) permission to
accept employment in the United States. Once the J-2 has entered the United States they can initiate a request for employment
authorization (by mail) with USCIS. Individuals in J-2 status are not eligible to be employed until they have received employment
authorization from USCIS and have been issued an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Authorized employment for
individuals in J-2 status is limited to the dates documented by USCIS on the EAD and the end-date usually matches the
expiration date on the DS-2019. Once the application has been received by USCIS, it may take three months or more to be
approved.
J-2 Employment
Authorization Guide
Page 1 of 3- Revised 12/2013
APPLICATION PROCESS
In order for an individual in J-2 status to apply for permission to accept employment in the United States and to be issued the
EAD, they must submit an application (by mail) which includes the following required documents to the appropriate USCIS office:
Completed Form I-765
Always download and use the most recent I-765 directly from the www.uscis.gov. Using an outdated form will result in
your application being returned or rejected
Check or money order payable to the Department of Homeland Security in the amount listed for I-765 processing
If using a check for payment, name and address must be printed on the check. Temporary checks are not accepted.
Letter to USCIS explaining reason requesting employment authorization
Sample letter included in this J-2 Employment Authorization Guide
Copies of both J-1 and J-2 DS-2019's
Do not send the originals
Copy of J-2 visa stamp in passport
Copy of J-2's biographical page in passport
Copies of both front and back of J-1 and J-2's I-94 card's
Do not send the originals
Two U.S. passport style photos
Two passport-style photos (photos can be obtained at the Wildcard office for a fee). Print your name and I-94 card
number on the back of each photo.
Copy of Marriage Certificate
If the certificate is not in English, please provide a translation. You can translate it yourself or have someone else do it.
Include a statement to the effect that the person translating the document is fluent in both English and the language of
the original certificate and that they certify that the translation is true and accurate.
Copies of any previously issued EAD cards (if re-applying for J-2 employment authorization)
Prior to mailing the application, be sure to make photocopies of your entire application for your records. Mail all of the required
documents to the appropriate USCIS Service Center (this information can be found in the I-765 Instructions. It is advisable to
mail the application from a U.S. Post Office by “certified mail/return receipt requested”. Consult with an advisor at the
International Office if you have questions or require assistance with this application.
J-2 Employment
Authorization Guide
Page 2 of 3
Northwestern University - The International Office
630 Dartmouth Place, Evanston, IL 60208-2147
Ph: (847) 491-5613 - Fax: (847) 566-6006
www.northwestern.edu/international - intoff@northwestern.edu
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long may I work?
J-2 dependents with employment authorization may work until the date on the EAD card or until the J-1 principal
visitor completes his or her program, whichever is earlier. J-2 dependents may apply to renew work authorization,
as long as the J-1 visitor remains in status. If the J-1 receives an extension of stay, the J-2 dependent must re-
apply for work authorization once the extension has been granted.
May I still work if the status of the J-1 ends?
If the J-1 visitor discontinues their program at Northwestern University or changes to another visa category, the
work authorization for the J-2 dependent will be made invalid. Legal work authorization for J-2 dependents is
always dependent on the status of the J-1 principal.
When should I renew my employment authorization document (EAD)?
It is recommended that you renew your EAD at least three months in advance of the expiration date of your current
EAD due to the processing time at USCIS. If you are applying for a renewal of your EAD, you cannot work beyond
the previously authorized date until you receive a new EAD. To prevent a gap in your employment, it is
recommended that you apply as early as you can for the renewal of your EAD.
What is the process for renewal of my EAD?
J-2 dependents may apply to renew work authorization, as long as the J-1 visitor remains in status. If the J-1
receives an extension of stay, the J-2 dependent must re-apply for work authorization once the extension has been
granted. The J-2 should follow the same process of application as they did for their initial application.
Can I work full-time?
Yes, J-2's who have a valid EAD can work full-time or part-time.
Where can I work?
Not limited.
Do I have to pay taxes?
Yes, J-2's are subject to social security taxes, federal income taxes and, where applicable, state and local income
taxes. It is advised that you consult with a qualified tax consultant.
Do I need a social security number?
Yes, anyone who earns wages in the United States must have a social security number for taxpayer identification
purposes. J-2's are not eligible to apply for a social security number until they have received their EAD.
J-2 Employment
Authorization Guide
Page 3 of 3
SAMPLE J-2 EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION LETTER
Your name
Your address
Your phone or email
USCIS
(see I-765 Instructions for exact address)
Date
To Whom it May Concern:
I am the J-2 dependent of the J-1 Exchange Visitor J-1's name and I wish to apply for permission for employment
authorization. My spouse or parent receives a stipend, salary, or grant from source sufficient to provide for name of
spouse or parent expenses. I wish to be employed to provide for my expenses (add "and those of my children" if
applicable), and to pursue my interests in topic. Any money which I earn from such employment will be used for my
family's customary recreational and cultural activities and related travel, among other things, and not for the support of my
spouse or parent. Please grant me permission to be employed.
Enclosed are all required documents for my application:
(List documents included)
Thank you very much for your assistance.
Your Name
Your Signature
Northwestern University - The International Office
630 Dartmouth Place, Evanston, IL 60208-2147
Ph: (847) 491-5613 - Fax: (847) 566-6006
www.northwestern.edu/international - intoff@northwestern.edu
