Spouse and Dependent Employment
Depending on his or her visa status, an international spouse of an international student, visitor, or employee may be able to seek employment.
Eligible for Employment
Spouses in the following visa categories may be employed after receiving the appropriate authorization.
- J-2 dependents (spouses of J-1 students and exchange visitors) are eligible for full- or part-time employment. J-2 dependents must file form I-765 with USCIS and receive the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card before beginning employment. For information on application instructions, please see: Apply for J-2 Dependent Employment.
- E-3 dependents (spouses of E-3 employees) are eligible for full or part time employment with an Employment Authorization Document Card (EAD). E-3 dependents must complete the for E-3 dependent employment authorization.
Ineligible for Employment
Spouses in the following visa categories may not be employed or engage in business under any circumstances.
- F-2 dependents (spouses of F-1 students)
- H-4 dependents (spouses of H-1B employees)
- TD dependents (spouses of TN employees)
Apply for J-2 Dependent Employment
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may grant a J-2 dependent permission to accept employment in the United States.
Disclaimer Statement
The Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ University Office of International Student & Scholar Services (OISS) offers guidance on I-765 and I-539 applications as a courtesy to NU scholars and dependents. We make every attempt to ensure that we provide you with the most up to date information available. However, any advice provided to you by our office does not constitute legal advice. You should always independently check all deadlines and all I-765 and I-539 application documents for accuracy before mailing them or submitting them online to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These applications are personal applications for which you are responsible. The application preparation and USCIS case decision will vary depending on the facts at issue in your particular case. While OISS exercises best efforts to provide you with the most current guidance, please be aware that USCIS may change its interpretation of applicable policies, procedures, regulations, and eligibility requirements at any time. OISS is not responsible for, and expressly disclaims liability for, any errors or omissions relating to your I-765 or I-539 application and any decisions made by USCIS. For legal advice, scholars and dependents are encouraged to consult with a licensed and experienced immigration attorney at their own expense.