Key Takeaways:
- To transfer from an M1 to J2 visa, check eligibility, fill out Form I-539, and wait for approval.
- Advantages of a J2 visa include employment authorization, study opportunities, and longer duration of stay.
- Disadvantages to consider include dependent status, work restrictions, and potential visa limitations.
Navigating the process of changing your visa status in the United States can be complex. If you are currently in the U.S. on an M1 visa and are considering transferring to a J2 visa, understanding the procedure and weighing the advantages and disadvantages is crucial. Both of these visas serve different purposes, with the M1 Visa being for vocational or non-academic students, and the J2 Visa for dependents of J1 exchange visitors. Let’s delve into the necessary steps for a successful M1 to J2 Visa transfer and what you should consider before making the move.
Understanding the M1 to J2 Visa Transfer Process
Step-by-Step Guide
- Eligibility Check: Before initiating the transfer process, you need to confirm your eligibility. As a J2 visa candidate, you must be the spouse or child under the age of 21 of a J1 visa holder.
Form DS-2019: The primary step involves obtaining the Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status) which is issued by the sponsor of the J1 visa holder.
Form I-539: Next, you’ll need to fill out and submit Form I-539 (Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status) to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Include the necessary supporting documents such as your current M1 visa, the J1 visa holder’s Form DS-2019, evidence of relationship to the J1 visa holder, and financial evidence showing that funds are available for your stay.
Application Fee: As of the latest update, an application fee is required when submitting Form I-539. Be sure to check the current fee amount on the USCIS official website.
Wait for Approval: After filing, you will need to wait for the application to be processed. The processing times can vary, so it’s important to plan accordingly and check current times on the USCIS website.
- Interview and Approval: While not always required, be prepared to attend an interview at a USCIS office. Upon approval, you’ll receive a new Form I-797 (Notice of Action) indicating your change of status to J2.
Visa Status Change Advantages
Benefits of a J2 Visa
- Employment Authorization: J2 visa holders may apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) that allows them to work in the U.S., a privilege not offered to M1 visa holders.
Study Opportunities: As a J2 visa holder, you are eligible to study full-time or part-time in an academic program without the need to obtain a separate student visa.
Duration of Stay: Your J2 visa is valid as long as the J1 visa holder maintains their status, possibly offering a longer stay compared to the duration of M1 visa programs, which are often time-limited.
Family Unity: Being on a J2 visa allows families to stay together in the U.S. if one family member is participating in an exchange program.
Potential Disadvantages to Consider
While the advantages of transferring from an M1 to a J2 visa can be compelling, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:
- Dependent Status: Your stay in the U.S. as a J2 visa holder is dependent on the J1 visa holder’s status. Should their status change or end, it will affect your lawful stay.
Work Restrictions: While having the possibility to work, J2 visa holders must obtain an EAD before starting employment, which can be a time-consuming process.
Visa Limitations: Certain J1 programs come with a two-year home-country physical presence requirement, which would apply to J2 dependents as well. This means you may need to return to your home country for two years after your program ends before you can change to certain other visa statuses or adjust status to that of a lawful permanent resident.
Final Thoughts and Additional Resources
A change of status from an M1 to a J2 visa can open doors to new opportunities and benefits. However, it’s essential to carefully examine the advantages and accompanying responsibilities before embarking upon this process. Ensure you have all the correct information and documents, and stay informed about current USCIS regulations and processing times to ensure a smooth transition.
For additional information and up-to-date guidance, consult the Department of State’s Exchange Visitor Program website and the official USCIS website. Both these resources provide invaluable help for those navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration policies.
Making an informed decision is key. Take into account your personal circumstances, your goals in the United States, and the legal requirements. If needed, consider consulting with an immigration attorney to guide you through the M1 to J2 Visa transfer process.
Still Got Questions? Read Below to Know More:
What happens to my J2 visa if my partner’s J1 program ends early
If your partner’s J1 program ends early, it impacts your J2 visa status as well. The J1 and J2 visas are directly linked; the J2 is a dependent visa, which means it’s valid as long as the primary J1 visa holder has a valid program. Here’s what generally happens:
- End of Status: Once your partner’s J1 program ends, whether it’s through program completion, early termination, or cancellation, the J2 visa holder’s status also ends. According to the U.S. Department of State, “The spouse and children of an exchange visitor may not remain in the United States in J-2 status without the principal exchange visitor, who is in J-1 status.”
Grace Period: After the J1 program ends, both J1 and J2 visa holders typically have a 30-day grace period to depart the United States. However, if the J1 program is terminated for cause, this grace period may not apply, and you must leave the country immediately.
Changing Status: If you wish to remain in the United States after your partner’s J1 program has ended early, you may consider applying for a change of status to another nonimmigrant visa category for which you may be eligible. It’s crucial to apply for a change of status before your current J2 status expires. Applications for change of status are filed with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and you can find more information on how to apply here.
Please consult the official resources or contact an immigration attorney to explore your options as each case might have its unique circumstances. It is essential to maintain legal status in the United States at all times and to act promptly when situations change.
If my child is 21 but still dependent on me, can they stay on a J2 visa after I switch from my M1
If you are switching from an M-1 visa (for vocational or non-academic students) to a J-1 visa (for exchange visitors), the eligibility for your child to stay on a dependent J-2 visa can vary based on certain conditions. Generally, J-2 visa status is contingent on the principal J-1 visa holder maintaining their status. Moreover, a J-2 visa is for the spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 of the J-1 visa holder.
Once your child turns 21, they are typically no longer considered a “child” under U.S. immigration law for the purpose of being a dependent on a J visa. Therefore, unless there are special circumstances, once your child reaches 21, they would not be eligible to stay in the United States under J-2 status. Instead, they would need to find an alternative visa category suitable for their situation, such as a student visa (F-1), if they are attending a college or university, or a work visa if they qualify for employment in the U.S.
It’s important to plan ahead for this transition and consult with an immigration attorney for personalized guidance. The U.S. Department of State’s Exchange Visitor Program website would also be a helpful resource for detailed information on J visas: Exchange Visitor Visa.
Do I need a lawyer to help me switch from an M1 to a J2, or can I do it by myself
Switching from an M-1 visa (for vocational or non-academic students) to a J-2 visa (for dependents of a J-1 exchange visitor) is a process with specific steps and documentation requirements. While it is not a legal requirement to have a lawyer to assist you in changing your visa status, having professional legal assistance can be beneficial, especially if your case is complex. However, many individuals successfully complete visa status changes on their own by carefully following the official guidelines provided by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
If you decide to handle the visa switch by yourself, you’ll need to:
- Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for a J-2 visa.
- File Form I-539, “Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status,” and submit the required supporting documents.
- Pay the necessary fees and possibly attend an interview.
The USCIS website provides the form and instructions at:
USCIS Form I-539
Remember, the J-1 visa holder’s program sponsor must approve your eligibility for J-2 status. It’s important to compile thorough documentation that demonstrates your relationship with the J-1 visa holder and your ongoing need to change status.
Here is a direct quote about the use of a lawyer from the USCIS website:
“You may file Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, to request a change to another nonimmigrant status for yourself or to request an extension of stay for yourself and, in some cases, for your family members. You do not need a lawyer to request this benefit.”
While having a lawyer is not required, if at any point you feel uncertain about the process, consider consulting with an immigration attorney or accredited representative for personalized guidance.
Can my spouse still work in the U.S. if I switch from an M1 to a J2 visa while they’re on a J1
Yes, your spouse can continue to work in the U.S. if you switch from an M1 visa to a J2 visa while they are on a J1 visa. The J2 visa is a dependant visa that allows the spouses or minor children of J1 visa holders to accompany them in the U.S. during their stay. Importantly, J2 visa holders have the benefit of applying for work authorization. Here is what you need to know:
- Work Authorization for J2 Visa Holders: To work in the U.S., your spouse on a J2 visa will need to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This is done by filing Form I-765, “Application for Employment Authorization.” The ability to work is not affected by the switch from an M1 to a J2 visa, as long as the EAD is valid.
“J-2 visa holders may apply to USCIS for permission to work in the United States by submitting a completed Form I-765 and the required fee. Approval for J-2 employment authorization is in the form of a document called an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).”
You can find more information and download Form I-765 from the official USCIS website: USCIS Form I-765.
Conditions for J2 Work Permission: The income from the employment of a J2 visa holder must not be used to support the J1 visa holder. Furthermore, the J1 visa holder must maintain their visa status, and the J2 visa holder’s employment must not interfere with this requirement.
Validity of Work Authorization: The EAD for a J2 visa holder is usually valid for any type of employment and is typically granted for the duration of the J1 holder’s program, or up to one year, whichever is shorter. It can be renewed as long as the J1 visa status is maintained.
Keep in mind that changing visa statuses and obtaining work authorization involve intricate processes that require attention to detail and timing. It is often helpful to consult with an immigration attorney or an accredited representative for personalized guidance.
For additional detailed guidance on the process, you can visit the U.S. Department of State’s Exchange Visitor Program website: Exchange Visitor Program J-2 Work Permission.
How long will it take to get my work permit after I change to a J2 visa
When you change to a J2 visa, which is a dependent visa for spouses and minor children of J1 visa holders, you can apply for a work permit, officially known as Employment Authorization Document (EAD). The time it takes to receive your EAD can vary. Here is the general process:
- Application Submission: After changing your status to a J2 visa, you must submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to USCIS.
- Processing Times: USCIS processing times for EAD applications fluctuate, but it can generally take anywhere from 3 to 6 months. You can check current processing times on the USCIS website using the tool provided for the form type and the office processing your application.
- Check the latest processing times here: USCIS Processing Times
- Receiving Your EAD: Once approved, USCIS will mail your EAD to the address you provided.
It is important to note:
“You may begin work only after receiving your EAD and it must be valid. Working without an EAD while on a J2 visa is a violation of your status.”
Remember to apply for your work permit as soon as possible after obtaining your J2 visa status to minimize the time you are unable to work. Keep track of your application progress and keep an eye out for any correspondence from USCIS regarding your application.
For more detailed information and the application process, visit the official United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website: USCIS Employment Authorization.
Learn today
Glossary or Definitions
1. M1 Visa: A nonimmigrant visa category in the United States that is designed for vocational or non-academic students pursuing a course of study at an accredited vocational or other recognized nonacademic institution.
2. J2 Visa: A nonimmigrant visa category in the United States that is granted to dependents (spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old) of J1 exchange visitors. J2 visa holders have certain privileges and restrictions based on their relationship with the J1 visa holder.
3. Visa Transfer: The process of changing visa status from one nonimmigrant visa category to another within the United States. In the context of the content, it refers to changing from an M1 visa to a J2 visa.
4. Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status (Form DS-2019): A document issued by the exchange visitor program sponsor that allows a prospective exchange visitor to apply for a J visa in order to participate in an exchange program in the United States.
5. Form I-539: A form used to apply for the extension or change of nonimmigrant status in the United States. In this context, it is used to apply for a change of status from M1 to J2 visa.
6. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): The government agency responsible for overseeing lawful immigration to the United States, including processing visa applications, granting immigration benefits, and administering immigration laws.
7. Application Fee: A required payment that must be submitted along with certain immigration applications to cover the costs of processing and adjudicating the application. The fee amount may vary depending on the specific application.
8. Notice of Action (Form I-797): A document issued by USCIS that provides information on the status of an immigration application or petition. In the context of the content, it is sent to the applicant upon approval of the change of status from M1 to J2 visa.
9. Employment Authorization Document (EAD): A card issued by USCIS that allows certain nonimmigrant visa holders, including J2 visa holders, to legally work in the United States.
10. Duration of Stay: The period of time during which a nonimmigrant visa holder is allowed to stay in the United States. The duration of stay may vary depending on the visa category and the specific circumstances of the visa holder.
11. Two-Year Home-Country Physical Presence Requirement: A requirement that may be imposed on certain J1 visa holders and their J2 dependents who participate in certain exchange programs. It mandates that they must return to their home country for a period of two years at the end of their program before they can change to certain other visa statuses or adjust to lawful permanent resident status.
12. Exchange Visitor Program: A program administered by the U.S. Department of State that enables foreign nationals to participate in educational and cultural exchange programs in the United States. The program promotes mutual understanding between the United States and other countries.
13. Lawful Permanent Resident: An individual who has been granted permission to live and work permanently in the United States. Lawful permanent residents hold a “green card” as evidence of their immigration status.
14. Immigration Attorney: A legal professional who specializes in immigration law and provides legal advice and assistance to individuals seeking to navigate the U.S. immigration system.
So there you have it, navigating the process of changing your visa status from M1 to J2 can be a bit complex, but armed with the right information, you can make a smooth transition. Remember to assess the advantages and disadvantages, and stay updated with USCIS regulations. For more expert advice and guidance, head over to visaverge.com. They have a wealth of resources and tools to help you on your visa journey. Good luck and happy exploring!
