US Student Visa With Dependents: All You Need to Know

The United States, a powerful economy, is also known for its diverse academic programs, education system, and life-changing opportunities. As an international student on an F-1 student visa, leaving loved ones behind to achieve your academic dreams can be overwhelming. But one to not do so is to bring a dependent on the F-2 visa.

Well, we understand your excitement about the F-2 visa. But hold on, there’s a lot you need to know before consulting a USA visa consultant in Ahmedabad.

Without further due, let’s dive in!

What is An F2 Visa?

F2 is a dependent visa category of the United States wherein the government allows applications to bring their minor children or spouse. Their duration of stay in the States will be limited to the duration of the academic program.

What is the Eligibility for An F2 visa?

Those who meet the following criteria are eligible for the F2 visa.

• A spouse of an authorized F1 visa holder
• An unmarried/minor child (<21 years) of the authorized F1 visa holder
• Financially capable of supporting their stay in the United States.

Apart from this, the eligibility criteria of a dependent student visa in USA will depend on the status and application of the F1 visa holder. Please note that eligible applicants can file their application with the main applicant or later.

What Are the Necessary Documents for An F2 visa?

The type of documents you need to attach with the application depends on your relation with the F1 visa applicant. However, considering the scenarios, a general list is as follows.

• A marriage certificate copy for dependent spouses
• A birth certificate copy or adoption proof for minor children
• Proof indicating your stay in the States until the F1 holder’s academic program completion.
• Financial proof indicating enough funds for your stay in the United States.

What is the Application Process for An F2 visa?

Before filing the F2 visa application, the USCIS approval for the main F1 visa is essential. Once that is approved, submit FORM I-20A-B (Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant Student Status). Another way to do this is to fill out form DS-160 (Non-immigrant Visa Application) and submit it at the U.S. consulate. Don’t forget to attach supporting documents in either case.

Conclusion

Thanks to the dependent visa categorization, you as an international student can apply for a USA study visa with spouse and minor children. Make sure to be thorough with the application process and documents required. In case you find the process overwhelming or challenging, get help from expert consultants.