Will spouses and children of persons issued J-1 visas or in the United States in J-1 status automatically be issued J-2 visas by an American Consul?
A. It should never be assumed that J-2 dependents will be issued J-2 visas because the principal alien has been issued a J-I visa or been granted a change of status in the United States to J-1 status. Each applicant must prove to the satisfaction of the American consular officer before whom an application is made that he/she continues to maintain the principal place of residence and domicile abroad and that she/he intends to return home at the completion of the program of the J-I principal. In many countries, it is difficult to demonstrate a spouse or child has strong ties in the home country when the principal has departed. Competent counsel should be consulted before dependents apply for J-2 visas, particularly in countries designated by the Department of State as high fraud countries, such as the Philippines, India, Pakistan, and Nigeria. Also, if the principal alien entered the United States as other than a J-I (e.g. F-I or B-I/B-2), dependents applying in any country should obtain
Related Questions
- Will spouses and children of persons issued J-1 visas or in the United States in J-1 status automatically be issued J-2 visas by an American Consul?
- Will the spouses and children of persons issued J-1 visas or in the U.S. in J-1 status automatically be issued J-2 visas?
- If both spouses are in J-1 status, is it possible for one spouse to change status to J-2 in the United States?
