Dependents of international students and scholars have certain immigration regulations that they must follow to maintain their immigration status. Please review the information below for a brief overview of these requirements.
Follow Employment Regulations
- F-2 Dependents: may not work nor apply for work permission under any circumstances.
- J-2 Dependents: may apply for work permission from USCIS only if the income earned is to be used for support of the spouse or children, not for support of the J-2 student or scholar.
- Please note: J-2 dependents who seek employment will not be able to obtain a Social Security number unless they have an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Unlike J-1 Exchange Visitors, J-2 dependents are subject to Social Security taxes. They are also subject to federal income taxes and, where applicable, state income taxes.
- H-4 Dependents: may not work unless the H-1B principal is the beneficiary of an approved I-140 immigrant petition and the H-4 has an approved employment authorization document (EAD card).
- O-3 Dependents: may not work nor apply for work permission.
- E-3 Dependents: may apply for work permission from USCIS.
- TD Dependents: may not work nor apply for work permission.
Follow Study Regulations
- F-2 Dependents: Spouses may enroll in part-time classes and children may only be enrolled full-time in a K-12 education program. Make sure to speak with an International Advisor before your spouse enrolls in any coursework.
- J-2, H-4, O-3, E-3 and TD Dependents: There are no study restrictions.
Get a Signature before International travel
F-2 and J-2 dependents are required to have a travel signature on their valid I-20 or DS-2019 before leaving the U.S. if they intend to travel internationally. Please contact an International Advisor if you have questions about your dependents’ upcoming travel or if they need a travel signature.
International travel also requires a valid passport and visa to re-enter the U.S. Please note: For travel near a U.S. holiday, you will want to provide extra time for our office to process your travel signature request. Travel within the U.S. does not require a travel signature.
Maintain Health Insurance
Students
CSU does not offer a spouse or dependent health insurance plan, so dependents will need to obtain insurance through the open market.
Scholars
Scholars who are eligible for CSU employee health insurance may enroll their spouse and children dependents as well. Please review J-1 health insurance requirements before enrolling.
Why are families excluded from the Student Health Insurance Plan?
CSU does not provide an insurance plan to spouses and dependents of students. This policy was implemented because the cost of CSU insurance for spouses and children was significantly more than the cost of insurance on the open market. Spouses and children would find better prices for health insurance from other providers than they would through CSU.
Health Insurance Options
The CSU Health Network website lists multiple venues in which to explore health insurance options and to receive quotes. Additionally, you may request individual assistance by contacting Lynne Bunn, Manager of Student Insurance. Below are some examples of insurance options, but keep in mind that if you are in J-1 status, none of them are J-1/J-2 compliant:
- Colorado Health Program for families (CHP+)
- Rocky Mountain Health Plan
- Anthem Clear Protection 1000
- Connect for Health Colorado
Finding Healthcare
To find doctors in the area, inquire at the CSU Health Network or use the “find a doctor” tool on your health insurance company’s website.