J-2 Family
Exchange Visitor Dependent Family Members
Spouses and children (under the age of 21) of Scholars may be eligible to come to the US to accompany the Scholar. Dependents should enter the United States in a “dependent” visa category, unless they are a spouse also coming as a Scholar to conduct research or teaching at NC State. Dependent DS-2019s can be requested by the department when the initial DS-2019 is requested for the Scholar, or the Scholar may request the dependent DS-2019s by using the DS-2019 Request Form for Students or Scholars after arriving to the United States.
Other Family Members
If the Exchange Visitor wishes to invite a family member (or life partner) to join him or her who is not a legal spouse or child dependent, then that person will need to come to the U.S. in a visitor visa category. The Exchange Visitor will need to provide a letter of invitation and an official statement showing proof of financial support for their length of time in the U.S.
Family Orientation
An orientation for newly arrived families of NC State international students and Scholars is held weekly. OIS advisors inform families of the services and support available at NC State and in the community. Children are welcome to attend. Those interested should call OIS at 515-2961 or e-mail ois@ncsu.edu for details. The orientation is an excellent way for Exchange Visitor dependents to meet people and to introduce themselves to OIS. International Scholars are encouraged to join their spouse for this event. Some of the topics covered include English Language Resources, on and off campus cultural and recreational resources, such as iM.O.M, and consumer issues.