what is j2 visa

A J-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa issued by the United States for spouses and dependents of J-1 exchange visitors. J-2 visa holders can work for any employer in the US without sponsorship if they have an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) . The J-2 visitor may request work authorization from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) by submitting form I-765, and if approved, an EAD will be issued, authorizing the J-2 visitor for employment for a period of up to one year. Applications for additional employment authorization may be submitted annually until the end of the J-2s status. J-2 visitors may also enroll in academic programs as recreational or degree-seeking students. The eligibility for a J-2 visa depends on the specific exchange program being offered to the J-1 non-immigrant by a sponsor organization, and some categories do not permit J-2 visas.