F-2 | Dependent to F-1 Student

Form F-2, Application for Dependent to F-1 Student, is the form used by dependents of those studying under F-1 visas. This applies to the spouse and unmarried minor children (under 21 years old) who accompany the primary F-2 visa holder may receive F-2 dependent status. Their eligibility to stay legally in the U.S., as well as to extend their stay, is contingent upon the primary visa holder maintaining their legal status and extending their program in a timely manner. All other family members must apply for a B-1 or B-2 visitor’s visa to gain entry to the U.S.

Qualifications

  • Be the spouse of an approved F-1 Visa holder
  • Be the unmarried child under 21 years old of an approved F-1 Visa holder

What You'll Need

  • Valid passport
  • Passport style photographs
  • F-2 dependent SEVID Form I-20
  • Supporting documentation, including copies of the F-1 student's immigration documents, proof of student status, and financial documentation

Questions? Contact us.

Whatever your immigration issue may be, we are here to help. Our team of attorneys and staff work hard to help you reach your goals.

FAQs

Can I work in the U.S. with an F-2 Visa?

Unfortunately, you are not able to work under an F-2 visa. During your F1 spouse or parent’s approval process, they must prove that they can afford to cover the expenses of you both living in the U.S, so there are no forms of paid employment you can take up within the U.S. You can volunteer or do unpaid work, but you are not allowed to get into any employment agreement.

Is there a fee to file the F-2?

Yes, there is a $160 filing fee. If you apply online, you can also pay online. If you pay by mail, then you can pay via money order, personal check, cashier’s check, or by credit card using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions. If you pay by check, you must make your check payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

How can I file my F-2 form?

You can file your form online or by mail. Filing online allows you to:

  • Pay your filing fee online
  • Check the status of your case
  • Receive notifications and case updates
  • View personalized case completion date estimates
  • Respond to requests for evidence
  • Manage your contact information, including updating your address

 

You can create an account to file online. You can also mail your form to your region’s designated USCIS office.

Of course, you can choose to manage your case independently. However, working with immigration experts can help you navigate the process and provide guidance throughout.

You may be represented, at no expense to the U.S. government, by an attorney or other duly authorized representative. Your representative must submit Form G-28, Notice of Entry or Appearance as Attorney or Representative. Your representative may also submit Form G-28 at the time of your interview.

Why should I work with ImmigrationUSA?

Immigration issues can be quite complicated. Combine that with the current rate of change in U.S. policies, it can be hard to keep up. Our team puts their experience to work for you and your particular situation. We work hard to stay on top of policy changes and are prepared for changes down the line. We offer patented online software, MyEsq, that streamlines the filing process and makes our knowledgeable team of lawyers just a click away.

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