What College-Bound J-2 Visa Holders Need to Know When the J-1 Expires |

As a J-2 dependent studying or preparing for college in the U.S., it’s natural to wonder:
What happens to me when my parent’s J-1 visa expires?
Can I legally stay and continue my education?

This guide is designed specifically for college-bound J-2 visa holders who want to understand their options and avoid future immigration issues.

What Is a J-2 Visa and How Long Is It Valid?

The J-2 visa is a dependent visa granted to family members of J-1 exchange visitors. It remains valid only as long as the J-1 principal’s visa is active.

Once the J-1 visa ends, so does the J-2.
There is a 30-day grace period after the program end date for both J-1 and J-2 holders.
After this, staying in the U.S. without proper status could lead to immigration consequences.

Can J-2 Visa Holders Study in the U.S.?

Yes, J-2 dependents can legally enroll in U.S. schools or universities, including full-time study at the college level. You do not need an F-1 student visa while your J-2 is valid.

However, here are situations where you’ll need to act:

If your J-1 program is ending soon
If you’re about to age out of J-2 status (typically at age 21)
If your degree program goes beyond your parent’s J-1 end date

What Are Your Options When the J-1 Visa Is About to Expire?

Option 1: Extend the J-1 (and J-2) Visa
If the J-1 visa can be extended by the sponsor, your J-2 status will be extended as well. This is the simplest way to stay, but not always available depending on the program.

Option 2: Change Your Status to an F-1 Student Visa
This is the most common route for J-2 dependents who want to continue their education in the U.S. after the J-1 ends.

Steps to change from J-2 to F-1:

Apply and get accepted by a SEVP-approved U.S. college or university.
Request a Form I-20 from your school.
Pay the SEVIS fee.
File Form I-539 (Application to Change Nonimmigrant Status) with USCIS before your J-2 expires.
Wait for approval (usually 3–6 months).

Once approved, you can continue your studies under F-1 student visa status.

Can J-2 Visa Holders Work in the U.S.?

Yes. With proper authorization, J-2 visa holders may apply for a work permit (EAD) and legally work in the U.S.

Note: Once you switch to an F-1 student visa, employment is more limited and generally requires OPT or CPT approval.

What Happens If You Overstay a J-2 Visa?

Overstaying your J-2 visa—even by a few days—can lead to serious issues such as:

Being denied future visas
Ineligibility for change of status
Possible bans from reentering the U.S.

To avoid this, start planning early. Either extend your status or file a change of status application before your current visa expires.

Need Help Navigating the Process?

If you’re unsure whether to extend your J-2 or switch to an F-1, we can help.

Email us at apply@teach-usa.net

Subject: J2 Dependent / Student Visa Inquiry

We’ll walk you through the process—so you can focus on your future, not your paperwork.