Dependents

Students with active F-1 status may request an F-2 I-20 for their dependent(s). Dependents are defined as a spouse or an unmarried, minor child (below 21 years of age) of the primary visa holder. The dependent must have their F-2 I-20, and will need to apply with the local U.S. consulate for their own F-2 visa. At the visa appointment, the F-2 applicant(s) will likely be asked for proof of relationship (e.g. marriage or birth certificate) and appropriate financial support.

F-2 dependents may join the F-1 visa holder in the U.S. after their receive their F-2 visa. While in the U.S., the following regulations will apply to the F-2 dependent(s):

• Study – an F-2 minor child can study full-time in an elementary or secondary (grades K-12) institution
• Study – F-2 dependents can study part-time at a local post-secondary institution; an F-2 dependent looking to study full-time will need to apply for and be approved for an F-1 student visa
• Travel – F-2 dependents may travel with or without the F-1 student as long as they have a valid passport, a valid visa, and an I-20 properly endorsed for travel on page 2
• Work – F-2 dependents may not work

Documentation Required

In order to request to add a dependent to your immigration record, you must email copies of the following documents to ISS:

• F-2 Dependent Affidavit of Support
• Dependent(s) passport photo/biographical page
• Proof of relationship with dependent(s)
  • If dependent is a child, you can use the child’s passport if it lists you as the parent
• Proof of funding to support dependent(s)
  • Must show liquid assets
  • Must be less than 6 months old