Employment

J-2 and H-4 dependent children are all permitted to attend school in the United States. J-2 and H-4 spouses may enroll in college and university classes. Tuition rates may vary according to determination of resident status in the State of Ohio.

Students are permitted to accept on campus employment. However, even though an H-4 dependent is a student, they are NOT permitted to accept employment. This includes post-graduate employment. If necessary, the H-4 dependent must apply for a change of status from H-4 to either H-1B or F-1 (student).

J-2 dependents who are students may accept employment provided they have the proper employment authorization from the INS.

The only volunteer work permitted is that which is done for a charitable organization. For example, working as a hospital volunteer, a community volunteer working with children or the elderly or as a volunteer in a museum.

Dependents may NOT "volunteer" to do research in laboratories libraries or on computers, assist with patients, perform general administrative or secretarial duties or work as translators. These are all examples of positions for which people are normally hired and paid as an employee. The INS strictly forbids this type of activity on the part of dependents unless the person is eligible and authorized for employment.

The spouses of the House Staff at the Cleveland Clinic have formed an association for spouses to get to know each other and plan educational and cultural activities for spouses, children and House Staff. If you are interested in joining the House Staff Spouse Association, please contact Paige Wright at (440) 684-9737. She is the current president of the Association.

The Cleveland Council on World Affairs is a non-profit organization founded in 1923 that sponsors a variety of programs covering a broad spectrum of regions and issues. All are designed to promote interest in international affairs and to enhance Cleveland’s position in the global community. Anyone is welcome to join. Further information on the Council is available by calling the office at (216) 781-3730.The Council also sponsors an International Women’s Group. The group was established to promote friendship and goodwill among women of all nations who live in Cleveland. Membership is open to women from all countries who are living in Cleveland either temporarily or permanently. American women who enjoy meeting people from other countries are also welcome to join the group. For further information, please contact Cheryle Mackie at (216) 932-2268 or Mimi Yamamuro at (216) 295-9560.