Are you planning to join a loved one studying in the United States on an F-2 student visa? Understanding the F-2 visa process is crucial for a smooth transition. Let’s explore everything you need to know about the F-2 visa, right from eligibility, application requirements to processing times and much more.
What Does F-2 Visa Mean?
The F-2 visa is a temporary non-immigrant permit for the immediate family members of F-1 students in the U.S. It lets spouses and kids with F-2 visas live with the student while they study. However, it does not grant authorization for them to work. Nevertheless, children may engage in full time elementary or secondary school.
Who Can Apply as a Dependent of an F-2 Visa Holder?
Only the immediate family members of an F-1 student visa holder are eligible to apply for the F-2 visa. To be able to apply for the visa, you must be either the spouse or an unmarried child below 21 years of age.
Other family members are not eligible for the F-2 visa category, instead, they can visit you in the US on a B-2 visitor visa.
F-2 Visa Eligibility Requirements
- Relationship Documentation: Provide proof of relationship with the F-1 student (marriage certificate for spouses, birth certificates for children).
- Financial Proof: Demonstrate financial capability to cover living expenses in the U.S.
- Valid Passport: Ensure passport validity extends at least six months beyond the intended stay in the U.S.
- Completed Form DS-160: Submit the online nonimmigrant visa application form.
- Passport Photo: Comply with specified requirements for size, format, and background of the photo.
- Form I-20: Obtain the F-1 student’s Form I-20, containing dependent information.
What are the Documents Required for an F-2 Visa?
Required F-2 visa documents checklist:
- Passport
- Photograph
- Confirmation of visa application – (form DS 160, online nonimmigrant visa application)
- Marriage certificate (for dependent spouses)
- Birth certificate or adoption documents (for dependent children)
- Proof of financial stability – tax records, bank statements etc..
- Proof of intent to return home after primary visa holder (F-1 visa) student’s education completion
- Visa fee payment receipt
F-2 Visa Application Process
1. Gather Required Documents:
- Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.
- Form DS-160: Complete the online nonimmigrant visa application.
- Passport Photo: Follow the specified requirements for size, format, and background.
- Form I-20: Obtain the F-1 student’s Form I-20, which includes your dependent information.
- Relationship Documentation: Provide evidence of your relationship with the F-1 student (marriage certificate for spouses, birth certificates for children).
- Financial Proof: Show proof of financial support to cover living expenses in the U.S.
2. Pay the Visa Fee:
Visit the U.S. Department of State website to pay the non-refundable visa application fee.
3. Schedule Visa Interview:
Book a visa interview appointment at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
4. Attend Visa Interview:
- Arrive at the embassy or consulate on time for your scheduled interview.
- Bring all required documents, including the DS-160 confirmation page, passport, photo, Form I-20, and relationship documentation.
- Be prepared to answer questions about your relationship with the F-1 student, your intent to return to your home country, and your ability to support yourself financially in the U.S.
5. Visa Decision:
- After the interview, the consular officer will determine whether to approve or deny your F-2 visa application.
- If approved, your passport will be stamped with the F-2 visa, allowing you to enter the U.S. as a dependent of the F-1 student.
- If denied, the officer will provide reasons for the denial, and you may have the option to reapply in the future.
6. Travel Preparation:
- Make travel arrangements to the U.S. in coordination with the F-1 student’s plans.
- Familiarize yourself with U.S. entry requirements and customs regulations.
7. Arrival in the United States:
- Present your passport with the F-2 visa at the port of entry in the U.S.
- Complete the required arrival forms and undergo immigration inspection.
- Once admitted, you can join the F-1 student and begin your stay in the U.S. as an F-2 visa holder.
What are F-2 Visa Rules?
- No Employment: F-2 visa holders are not permitted to work in the United States.
- No Independent Study: Adult F-2 dependents cannot pursue formal education in the U.S. without obtaining the appropriate visa status.
- Children’s Education: Children on F-2 visas can attend elementary or secondary school full-time.
- Non-vocational Courses: Adult F-2 dependents may engage in non-vocational or recreational courses of study.
- Travel Restrictions: F-2 visa holders must accompany or follow the F-1 student visa holder on any trips outside the United States.
What are the Benefits of an F-2 Dependent Visa?
- Extension of stay: F-2 dependents can apply for an extension if the primary F-1 visa holder extends their stay.
- Access to healthcare: Holders can access US medical facilities, though having health insurance is advised.
- Change of status: Holders can request a change of status for various reasons like employment or higher education enrollment.
- Route to Green Card: If the primary F-1 visa holder obtains a Green Card, F-2 dependents also becomes eligible to apply.
F-2 Visa Rejection Rate
The rejection rate refers to the percentage of F-2 visa applications denied by the U.S. authorities. This rate can vary based on various factors such as incomplete documentation, insufficient financial proof, or doubts about the applicant’s intention to return to their home country. It’s essential for applicants to carefully prepare their documents, demonstrate strong ties to their home country, and provide clear evidence of their ability to support themselves financially during their stay in the U.S.
Here’s the percentage for the F-2 Visa rejection rate for 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 below:
Fiscal Year | Approval Rate | Refusal Rate |
2020 | 67.17% | 32.83% |
2021 | 67.66% | 32.34% |
2022 | 55.40% | 44.60% |
2023 | 52.96% | 47.04% |
What is the Processing Time for F-2 Visa?
- The typical timeframe for this visa processing ranges from several weeks to a few months.
- Factors influencing processing time include the workload at the U.S. embassy or consulate where the application is submitted and peak application seasons.
- Applicants are advised to check the specific processing times listed on the website of the embassy or consulate where they plan to apply to obtain accurate information.
- Expedited processing options may be available for urgent situations, but they often come with additional fees.
How Can Kodem Law Help You?
Kodem Law can provide valuable assistance throughout the F-2 visa application process. With our expertise in immigration law, we can guide you through the complexities of the F-2 visa requirements, ensuring that you understand all necessary documentation and procedures. Our experienced attorneys can help you prepare your application accurately and thoroughly, minimizing the risk of errors or omissions that could lead to delays or denials.
Additionally, we can offer personalized advice tailored to your specific situation, addressing any concerns or questions you may have along the way. With Kodem Law on your side, you can navigate the F-2 visa process with confidence, knowing that you have knowledgeable professionals supporting you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q- How much funds to show for F-2 visa?
The amount of funds required to show for an F-2 visa varies depending on factors such as the cost of living in the specific location where you’ll be residing and the duration of your stay. Generally, you’ll need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover living expenses for yourself and your dependents during your time in the U.S.
Q- What is SEVP for studying in the United States?
SEVP, or the Student and Exchange Visitor Program, is a DHS initiative overseeing the SEVIS system. It approves US schools for international student enrollment and manages F-1 and M-1 students, along with their dependents (F-2 and M-2).
Q- Do I have to pay SEVIS fees for my F-2 dependents?
No, you do not have to pay SEVIS fees for your F-2 dependents because SEVIS fees are only required for F-1 visa applicants, not for dependents such as those on the F-2 visa.
Q- Can F-2 Visa Work Part-Time/Full-Time?
No, F-2 visa holders are not permitted to work part-time/full-time or engage in any form of employment in the United States. The primary purpose of the F-2 visa is to allow dependents to accompany and support the F-1 visa holder during their academic pursuits.
Q- How Long Can F-2 Visa Holder Stay In USA?
An F-2 visa holder’s stay is tied to the primary F-1 visa holder’s legal status. They can generally stay as long as the F-1 visa holder maintains their status, typically until the completion of their academic program, including any authorized practical training (OPT) or grace periods.
