An F-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows dependents (spouse and children) of F-1 student visa holders to enter and stay in the United States for the duration of the primary visa holder's educational program.

Who can apply for an F-2 visa?

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age of an F-1 visa holder can apply for an F-2 visa.

Can F-2 visa holders work in the United States?

No, F-2 visa holders are not permitted to work in the United States.

Can F-2 visa holders study in the United States?

F-2 children can attend school from kindergarten through high school. F-2 spouses can engage in part-time academic or recreational courses, but cannot enroll in a full-time academic program.

How long can dependents stay in the United States on an F-2 visa?

F-2 visa holders can stay in the United States as long as the F-1 visa holder maintains their valid student status.

What happens if the F-1 visa holder's status changes?

If the F-1 visa holder’s status changes or they fall out of status, the F-2 dependents also lose their status.

Can an F-2 visa be extended?

The F-2 visa is tied to the F-1 visa holder's status. It remains valid as long as the F-1 status is maintained and can be extended as necessary.

What’s the process time for an F-2 visa?

Processing times can vary depending on the U.S. consulate or embassy. It typically takes a few weeks, but you should check with the specific consulate for accurate times.

Is an interview necessary for F-2 visa applicants?

Yes, all F-2 visa applicants are required to attend an interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy.

What documents are needed for an F-2 visa application?

You'll need the I-20 form, passport, DS-160 confirmation, proof of relationship with the F-1 holder, financial support evidence, SEVIS fee payment, visa fee receipt, and photographs.

United States of America F-2 Dependent of F-1 Visa Guide

Find out everything you need to know about United States of America F-2 Dependent of F-1 Visa application process and requirements.

What Is the United States of America F-2 Dependent of F-1 Visa?

The F-2 Dependent Visa is intended for the immediate family members (spouse and children) of F-1 student visa holders. The F-2 visa allows these family members to accompany the F-1 student to the United States, enabling families to stay together while the primary visa holder pursues their educational goals. The primary purpose of this visa is to support and maintain family unity. The F-2 visa provides significant benefits, such as the ability for dependents to live in the United States for the duration of the F-1’s study program, and with certain limitations, it allows children to attend public schools.

F-2 Dependent of F-1 Visa Requirements for United States of America

Explore the key requirements for obtaining your F-2 Dependent of F-1 Visa for United States of America. This section covers the necessary documentation, eligibility criteria, and any specific conditions you must meet to successfully apply for and secure your visa.

Relationship Proof
You need to provide proof of your relationship to the F-1 visa holder, such as a marriage certificate for spouses and birth certificates for children.
Dependents' I-20 Form
Each dependent needs an individual I-20 form issued by the F-1 holder’s educational institution.
Valid Passport
Each applicant (including children) must have a valid passport with a validity date at least six months beyond the intended period of stay in the United States.
Visa Application Fee Payment Confirmation
You need to present proof of payment for the visa application fee at the time of the interview.
Photographs
You must provide U.S. visa-compliant photographs of each applicant.
Financial Proof
Documentation showing the F-1 visa holder has sufficient funds to support their dependents during their stay in the United States.
Completed DS-160 Form
You need to complete the DS-160 application form for each dependent applying for the visa.

How to Apply for United States of America F-2 Dependent of F-1 Visa

Understand the process of applying for an United States of America F-2 Dependent of F-1 Visa, including key steps, document submission, and what to expect throughout the application.

Obtain an I-20 Form from the School
The F-1 visa holder’s educational institution must issue an I-20 form for each dependent seeking an F-2 visa. This form certifies the relationship between the student and dependents and provides necessary information for the visa application.
Pay the SEVIS Fee
After you receive your I-20, pay the SEVIS fee (Form I-901). This fee is separate for each dependent and ensures their inclusion in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
Complete the DS-160 Form
Fill out the DS-160 application form online for each dependent. This form is a standard non-immigrant visa application and is needed for the visa appointment.
Schedule a Visa Interview Appointment
Book an appointment at the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy for a visa interview. Make sure to choose a date that allows ample time for processing before the desired travel date.
Prepare for the Visa Interview
Gather all necessary documents, including the I-20, DS-160 confirmation page, SEVIS fee receipts, passport, copies of the F-1 visa holder’s documents, photos, and proof of financial support. Be ready to present these during the interview.
Attend the Visa Interview
Attend the scheduled visa interview with all the prepared documents. Answer the questions honestly and provide any additional information if requested by the consular officer.
Wait for Visa Processing
After the interview, your application will go through processing. Timeframes can vary, so keep track of your application status through the consulate’s website or other official means.
Receive Your Visa and Travel to the U.S.
Once your visa is approved and you have received your passport with the visa stamp, you can make your travel arrangements to join the F-1 visa holder in the United States.

Useful United States of America F-2 Dependent of F-1 Visa Resources

U.S. Department of State

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

Travel.State.Gov

United States of America F-2 Dependent of F-1 Visa Advice

When applying for an F-2 visa, it's crucial to start the process early and ensure all your documentation is in order. Remember that as an F-2 visa holder, you're not permitted to work in the United States, so plan your finances accordingly. Also, while F-2 children can attend school, F-2 spouses are not allowed to engage in full-time academic or vocational studies, but can enroll in recreational or avocational studies. Ensure the F-1 visa holder maintains their status as any violation could affect the F-2 dependents' status. Finally, always check the latest requirements and processing times through official channels to avoid any surprises.

United States of America F-2 Dependent of F-1 Visa Guide

What Is the United States of America F-2 Dependent of F-1 Visa?

F-2 Dependent of F-1 Visa Requirements for United States of America

Relationship Proof

Dependents' I-20 Form

Valid Passport

Visa Application Fee Payment Confirmation

Photographs

Financial Proof

Completed DS-160 Form

How to Apply for United States of America F-2 Dependent of F-1 Visa

Obtain an I-20 Form from the School

Pay the SEVIS Fee

Complete the DS-160 Form

Schedule a Visa Interview Appointment

Prepare for the Visa Interview

Attend the Visa Interview

Wait for Visa Processing

Receive Your Visa and Travel to the U.S.

Useful United States of America F-2 Dependent of F-1 Visa Resources

United States of America F-2 Dependent of F-1 Visa Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

United States of America Passport Details and Ranking 2024