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

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

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

The L-2 visa is specifically designed for the dependents of L-1 visa holders, which includes spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21. The goal of the L-2 visa is to allow families to stay together while the primary L-1 visa holder works in the United States. One of the biggest benefits is that L-2 spouses are allowed to apply for employment authorization, enabling them to work in the United States. Additionally, L-2 dependents can attend school without needing a separate student visa.

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

Explore the key requirements for obtaining your L-2 Dependent of L-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.
  • Completed Form DS-160

    Each dependent applying for an L-2 visa must complete and submit Form DS-160 online.

  • Passport

    A valid passport for each applicant, with at least six months of validity remaining.

  • Visa Application Fee

    Proof of payment for the visa application fee.

  • Photograph

    A recent photo that meets the U.S. visa photo requirements.

  • Proof of Relationship

    Documents such as marriage or birth certificates proving your relationship to the L-1 visa holder.

  • L-1 Visa Holder's Documentation

    Proof of the L-1 visa holder's status, such as a copy of their L-1 visa, approval notice, and employment verification.

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

Understand the process of applying for an United States of America L-2 Dependent of L-1 Visa, including key steps, document submission, and what to expect throughout the application.
  • Obtain Form DS-160

    Fill out the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form DS-160. Each dependent must submit their own form. You can find the form on the U.S. Department of State website.

  • Pay the Visa Fee

    Pay the non-refundable visa application fee. Keep the receipt as you will need it later in the process.

  • Schedule a Visa Interview

    Once you've completed the DS-160, schedule a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate. Wait times for interview appointments vary depending on the location.

  • Prepare Your Documents

    Gather all required documents including your passport, DS-160 confirmation page, visa fee receipt, photo, proof of relationship to the L-1 visa holder, and the L-1 visa holder's proof of status.

  • Attend the Visa Interview

    Attend your visa interview at the scheduled date and time. Be prepared to answer questions about your background and your relationship with the L-1 visa holder.

  • Receive Your Visa

    If your visa is approved, you'll be informed when and how to pick up your passport with the visa stamped in it.

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

When applying for an L-2 visa, make sure all your documents are in order and double-check the validity of your L-1 visa status. For spouses wanting to work, apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) as soon as you arrive in the U.S. to ensure you can start working sooner. If you’re bringing kids, consider looking into school options ahead of your move. Keep in close communication with the L-1 visa holder’s employer too, as they can often provide guidance and support during the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

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