J-1 Scholars can bring their spouse or children (under the age of 21) as a J-2 dependent status for the duration of the scholar’s program. The J-2 dependent will need a dependent DS-2019 Form to apply for a J-2 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate outside of the U.S.
If your spouse and/or children will only be visiting you for a short period, they may wish to apply for a tourist visa. See the for more information.
To add a dependent, please submit clearly scanned copies of the following documents through :
- Copy of Marriage Certificate or Birth Certificate
- Copy of Passport for dependent
- Financial documentation (i.e. bank statement)-demonstrating at least $7,000 USD for the first dependent and $4,000 for each additional dependent.
- Translation of any document that is not in English
*Processing times for such requests are 5-7 business days. This process is only for continuing scholars at 51做厙, new scholars will submit all documentation with the DS-2019 Request (Part I).