J2 employment question

My wife just got a J1 visa. As her spouse, I learned that I can work for any employer as long as she holds her J1 and if I have an EAD (employment authorization document) when I start my position.

Here's the question, we have a place here in Canada and we really need to sell the place before moving over. Another thing about EAD is that I can only apply once I land in the states. So.......

Anyone know if I can head over to the states with my wife first, drop off the application and fly back to deal with the house when the document is being processed (EAD takes up to 2-3 months to process)? Will that be considered a violation? or will I must stay in the states with her the entire time?

As a J2, you can travel back and forth if you like. EAD is just work authorization, not your status. So, you can do what you are asking.. don't fret

Thanks for the response!

One more question, it says somewhere in the EAD application process that that I can ONLY apply for EAD after I land in the states. Will it be possible to ask my wife to drop off the application package on my behalf? or I must physically be in the states first before I apply?

You must show proof of J2 status, which means that you have landed in the states (since your I-94/passport would be marked J2 at the border). This is enough to apply.

Oh, I see!
I thought the DS-2019 we get from her employer IS the J-2, lol~

Thanks a lot! you've been extremely helpful!

right. you yourself will not be J2 until you enter the US and get a J2 stamp.... when you apply for your EAD (I assume), you will be asked to show proof of J2 status, so a photocopy of the stamp on your passport and both sides of your I-94...

read this carefully:

http://www.uscis.gov/files/form/i-765instr.pdf

See "Required Documentation" - all applicants must show front and back of i-94 and passwort.... so you must have "landed" ie: crossed the border and entered in J-2 status.

also see section 3 - Foreign Students - J-2 for additional requirements, specific to J-2s.