Who qualifies as a J-2 dependent?
FAQ.
Answered by Jennifer Glass, Immigration Coordinator of the International Student Resource Center
Last updated: July, 2026
Who qualifies as a J-2 dependent?
J-2 status is available to a J-1 exchange visitor's spouse and unmarried, minor children. Same-sex spouses qualify as long as your marriage is legally recognized in the country where it was performed. Note that this is true even if your spouse is applying for the dependent visa in a country in which same-sex marriage is illegal. Minor children are those who are under the age of 21. Once a child turns 21, even if issued a J-2 visa, they are no longer eligible for dependent status.
Who qualifies
• Your spouse
• Your unmarried children under age 21
Who does not qualify?
• Domestic partners, fiancés, or partners who aren’t legally married
• Other relatives (parents, siblings, extended family)
In cases where close relatives and partners don’t qualify for a dependent visa, don’t give up! They can still come to the US, they’ll just need to look into alternative primary visas for themselves, such as tourist, student, or even their own J-1s, depending on the circumstances.
Reference: 22 CFR 62.2
