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The following information is provided for spouses and children of students who hold F-2 or J-2 status.
Employment
Persons in F-2 status cannot work in the United States. However, if they have an opportunity to take a temporary professional job while in the United States, it may be possible to change status to H-1B.
Persons in J-2 status may accept employment in the United States only if USCIS has granted them employment authorization. Please make an appointment to meet with an ISS advisor to get more information on applying for J-2 work permission.
Studying in the U.S.
Spouses in F-2 status are not permitted to study full-time or part-time. However, they are permitted to take a class that is recreational in nature. If an F-2 spouse wishes to begin a program of study, he or she must apply for a change status to F-1 or J-1 and must obtain the new status prior to beginning classes. Children in F-2 status may engage in full-time study at the K-12 level.
At this time, there is no restriction on a J-2 spouse's ability to study. However, if you are interested in pursuing a degree program as a J-2, please speak with an advisor in the ISS office prior to beginning your studies.
Travel
If you will be traveling outside the U.S., please contact the ISO to make certain that your immigration documents are in order. The Forms I-20 and DS-2019 must be signed on the back at least once a year to allow you to re-enter the United States.
Rochester International Council The Rochester International Council (RIC) provides social interaction for wives of international students through a program called the International Wives Group. Meetings are held twice a month from September to May. Women have the opportunity to share their cultures with others from around the world, learn more about American life and participate in discussions about holidays and popular tourist locations. Demonstrations of crafts and cooking are also provided. Children and other family members are always welcome. Please call RIC at 275-8779 for more information. |
