Complete Application

• 2 passport photos (taken within 30 days) with name and SEVIS ID# written lightly on the back;
• Check or money order in the amount of $520 made payable to “Department of Homeland Security” with the J-2's name and SEVIS ID# clearly printed in the Memo line on the front of the check; 
• Form G-1145 (optional). Use this form to request an e-notification from USCIS when your application is received. Place this form in the front of your application;
• Completed Form I-765 [Item #27, the eligibility category for J-2 dependents should be noted as (c)(5)( )];
• Letter based on OISSS sample (please edit to make your own!);
• Copies of previously issued Employment Authorization Document (EAD), if applicable;
• Copies of J-2's Visa and most recent U.S. entry stamp, J-2 DS-2019, I-94 printout OR copy of I-94 card (front and back) and passport biographical page;
• Copies of J-1’s Visa and most recent U.S. entry stamp, J-1 DS-2019, I-94 printout OR copy of I-94 card (front and back) and passport biographical page;
• Documentation of the relationship of the J-2 and the J-1, such as a marriage certificate and/or birth certificate of children;
• Documentation of the J-1's funding, which may include Brown University salary noted on the DS-2019, sponsor's letter, or bank statements.

Mail Application to USCIS

The application should be sent by CERTIFIED mail with return receipt requested or by EXPRESS mail with tracking number to one of the below addresses. Please be sure to copy all documents and forms before you send them, including your check, and to save any receipts or notices you receive from USCIS. If you live outside of New England contact OISSS for the appropriate mailing address.

https://www.uscis.gov/uscis-lockbox-filing-locations-chart

USCIS Processing and Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

USCIS can take several months to process your materials and to determine your eligibility. If approved, the USCIS will issue you an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and mail it to the address listed on the Form I-765. If you change your address after submitting your application, you must notify USCIS and OISSS within 10 days of such change.

Validity

J-2 employment authorization is valid for any kind of employment without limitation as to full-time or part-time and expires on the end date listed on the EAD. Note, that employment may be authorized for a period of up to 4 years (or shorter) or to the end date on the J-1’s DS-2019, whichever ends sooner. Employment cannot begin until the EAD card has been received and the start date on the EAD card has been reached. Employment cannot exceed the end date listed on the EAD card.

Extension of DS-2019 and Renewal

Extension of stay must be accomplished before further employment authorization is approved beyond the DS-2019 end date. If you wish to request an extension of the J-2 employment authorization, you may do so only after the J-1 extension of stay request has been approved.

J-2 dependents may not work beyond the ending date of the approved period listed on EAD, even if an application for extension of stay is approved and a work authorization application has been filed with USCIS. To avoid an interruption of your approved employment, submit your application for J-1 extension no later than 90 days prior to the expiration date.