Frequently Asked Questions: J-1 Students & Scholars
Q. How do I apply for a Kentucky driver's license?
A. Complete a Driver's License Request Form For Students or a Driver's License Request Form For Scholars and check with the Kentucky Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for additional information.
Q. Where can I find information about schools for my children?
A. Check out the following link: http://www.fcps.net/schools/.
Q. How can I apply for a Social Security Number?
A. Read the Social Security instructions for students or the Social Security instructions for scholars for information.
Q. How can my spouse and children join me in the United States?
A. Complete the J-2 Dependent DS-2019 Request Form and submit it to the J-1 Advisor who will prepare a DS-2019 Form for each dependent.
Q. Do my J-2 dependents have to pay the SEVIS fee?
A. No, the SEVIS fee is only for the J-1. Further information on the SEVIS fee is found at http://www.fmjfee.com. This fee can be paid online through the SEVIS website.
Q. How can my J-2 dependent apply for work permission?
A. The J-2 may begin employment only after receiving the EAD (Employment Authorization Document) from USCIS. The I-765 application form can be found at www.uscis.gov, in the "Forms" section.
Q. How long does it take for the J-2 to receive the Employment Authorization Document (EAD)?
A. It usually takes about 3 months to process the application. In a few weeks, you will receive receipt notice to inform you that USCIS has received your application and it is being reviewed. Remember, you must wait until you receive the EAD (Employment Authorization Document) to begin work.
Q. What is the Two-Year Home Country Residency Requirement or the 212(e) rule stamped on my visa?
A. This rule means that your home country expects you to return home for at least 2 years after your J program is completed.
Q. Is everyone subject to the Two-Year Home Country Residency Requirement?
A. No, it depends on the country you are from, the skill that you are performing and the source of your funding.
Q. What is a J-1 Waiver of the Two-Year Home Country Residency Requirement, and when should I apply for it?
A. A J-1 waiver is a request to the US Department of State, your home government and the Department of Homeland Security to remove the rule 212(e). Information regarding the waiver process can be found at the following Web site: http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/info/info_1296.html.
It is important that you contact your J-1 Advisor to determine if and when it is appropriate to apply for a waiver. If you apply for a waiver too early, and UK International Student & Scholar Services receives what is called a 'Waiver Recommendation' letter from the Department of State, then you will be unable to receive any further extensions of your current DS-2019. Also, you will not be allowed to transfer to another university.
Q: I am preparing to send an application to USCIS. Do you have any general suggestions?
A: You are strongly advised to have the J-1 Advisor review any applications you are planning to send to the USCIS. If you are unable to do so, here are several recommendations to follow:
- Make copies of everything and keep them in a safe place. If questions arise later, the value of these copies can be immeasurable.
- Make certain you use the correct address. The US Post Office generally will not forward mail from USCIS.
- Check to be certain you have included all of the required supporting documentation.
- If USCIS requests any additional documentation to adjudicate your application, see your J-1 Advisor. You have a time limit to respond and no extensions are allowed. If you do not respond correctly or within the requested time, your application will be denied and your fees will not be refunded.
- Safeguard any response you receive from USCIS. Any notice will include information on tracking your file if there should be any questions.
- Mail your correspondence to USCIS, either by registered or certified mail with a return receipt.