Are you currently in the United States on a J1 visa, but hope to extend your stay on a J2 visa? This can be a confusing process, but thankfully it is possible to convert from a J1 visa to a J2 visa, allowing you to remain in the United States for a longer period of time. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the J1 to J2 visa conversion process, including eligibility requirements, necessary documentation, and the timeline for the conversion process.

Key Takeaways

• You may be eligible to convert from a J1 to J2 visa if you meet certain criteria, such as having a J1 visa spouse or parent.
• Required documentation for the J1 to J2 conversion process typically includes a completed Form DS-2019, a copy of your J1 visa, and proof of your relationship to the J1 visa holder.
• The J1 to J2 visa conversion process can take several weeks to several months to complete, so it’s important to plan accordingly and apply as early as possible.
• Once you’ve converted to a J2 visa, you may be permitted to work or study in the United States, depending on your specific circumstances.

Eligibility Requirements for J1 to J2 Conversion

In order to be eligible to convert from a J1 visa to a J2 visa, you must be able to meet certain criteria. The main requirement is that you have a relationship to the J1 visa holder. This relationship can take a few different forms, including:

• J1 visa spouse: If you are married to a J1 visa holder, you are eligible to apply for a J2 visa.
• J1 visa child: If you are the child of a J1 visa holder and are under the age of 21, you are eligible to apply for a J2 visa.
• J1 visa parent: If you are the parent of a J1 visa holder who is under the age of 21, you may be eligible to apply for a J2 visa.

It’s important to note that only immediate family members (spouses and children) can be eligible for J2 visas. Other family members or friends who are not immediate family would not typically be eligible for this type of visa.

Required Documentation for J1 to J2 Conversion

Once you’ve determined that you’re eligible to apply for a J2 visa, the next step is to gather the necessary documents. Required documentation for J1 to J2 visa conversion generally includes:

• Completed DS-2019 Form: This form is required for both J1 and J2 visas and serves as proof that you’ve been approved for your program by your program sponsor.
• Copy of J1 visa: You’ll need to provide a copy of your J1 visa as part of your J2 visa application.
• Proof of relationship to J1 visa holder: This can take a few different forms, depending on your specific circumstances. For example, if you’re applying for a J2 visa as the spouse of a J1 visa holder, you might provide a copy of your marriage certificate.

In some cases, additional documentation may be required. For example, if you’re applying for a J2 visa as the child of a J1 visa holder, you may need to provide a copy of your birth certificate to prove your relationship.

Timeline for J1 to J2 Visa Conversion

The timeline for J1 to J2 visa conversion can vary based on several factors. In general, you should plan for the process to take several weeks to several months to complete. It’s recommended that you apply for your J2 visa as early as possible to avoid any potential delays.

The exact timeline will depend on a few different factors, including whether you need to submit additional documentation and how quickly your application is processed by the U.S. Department of State. You may also need to attend an interview as part of the J2 visa application process, which can add some additional time to the timeline.

Benefits of J2 Visa

Once you’ve successfully converted from a J1 visa to a J2 visa, you’ll be able to enjoy some additional benefits. One of the main benefits is that J2 visa holders are typically permitted to work or study in the United States. However, there are some restrictions to be aware of.

If you’re planning to work in the United States as a J2 visa holder, you’ll need to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). This document will allow you to legally work in the United States. However, it’s important to note that there are some restrictions on the types of employment that are available to J2 visa holders. For example, you may not be able to work as a doctor or nurse, even if you have the necessary qualifications.

If you’re planning to study in the United States as a J2 visa holder, you’ll need to apply for an F-1 visa. This will allow you to attend school in the United States. However, you may need to provide proof of financial support and other documentation to qualify for an F-1 visa.

Conclusion

If you’re currently in the United States on a J1 visa and are hoping to extend your stay, converting to a J2 visa may be a good option for you. As you can see, the J1 to J2 visa conversion process can be complex, but with the right documentation and some advanced planning, it’s definitely possible. By following the tips and advice outlined in this article, you’ll be on your way to successful conversion in no time.

FAQ

Can I apply for a J2 visa if I am not an immediate family member of a J1 visa holder?

No, J2 visas are only available for immediate family members of J1 visa holders, such as spouses and children under the age of 21.

How long does the J1 to J2 visa conversion process typically take?

The timeline for J1 to J2 visa conversion can vary, but usually takes several weeks to several months to complete.

What types of work can J2 visa holders do in the United States?

J2 visa holders are typically permitted to work in the United States, but there are some restrictions on the types of employment that are available. For example, J2 visa holders may not be able to work as doctors or nurses, even if they have the necessary qualifications.