If your spouse or parent is currently pursuing full-time education in the United States on an F1 student visa, and you’re planning to join them, you’ll need to apply for an F2 dependent visa. The F2 visa is specifically designed for the immediate family members—spouse and unmarried children under 21—of F1 visa holders, allowing them to reside in the U.S. for the duration of the F1 visa holder’s academic program.
Applying for this visa requires careful documentation and a clear understanding of eligibility requirements. The visa interview process is conducted with the same level of scrutiny as the F1 visa, and missing paperwork can result in delays or denials. Therefore, being well-prepared is essential for a smooth application process.
In this guide, you’ll find a comprehensive checklist of documents you need to present for your F2 visa application, along with helpful tips to ensure a successful interview. Whether you’re applying from your home country or abroad, this checklist is designed to help you stay organized and confident every step of the way.
What Is the F-2 Visa?
The F-2 visa is a non-immigrant dependent visa issued to the immediate family members (spouse and children) of F-1 visa holders. F-2 dependents are not allowed to work but can reside in the U.S. and, in the case of children, attend school. While the F2 visa doesn’t allow employment or full-time study (except for children attending school), it provides a valuable opportunity for families to stay together during an F1 student’s education abroad. Whether you’re a spouse hoping to live with your partner in the U.S., or a child planning to attend school while your parent studies, the F2 visa is the appropriate category.
F-2 Visa Document Checklist
1. Passport
- Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.
- Previous passports (if applicable) should also be carried to the interview.
2. DS-160 Confirmation Page
- A completed DS-160 form is required for each applicant.
- Print and bring the confirmation page with the barcode.
3. Visa Interview Appointment Letter
- Proof that you have scheduled a visa interview through the U.S. visa appointment system.
4. I-20 Form (F-2 Dependent)
- Issued by the school to the F-2 dependent.
- Must be signed by the Designated School Official (DSO) and the applicant.
- The I-20 of the F-1 visa holder should also be carried.
5. SEVIS Fee Receipt (for F-1 Visa Holder)
- The F-2 visa applicant is not required to pay the SEVIS fee.
- However, carry a copy of the F-1 visa holder’s SEVIS fee payment receipt (I-901) for reference.
6. Passport-Size Photograph
- One recent photograph as per U.S. visa photo specifications (2×2 inches, plain white background).
7. F-1 Visa Holder’s Supporting Documents
Bring photocopies or originals of these documents:
- Valid F-1 visa page and passport bio-data page.
- F-1 holder’s I-20 form.
- F-1 holder’s admission letter.
- F-1 holder’s I-94 record (can be downloaded from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website).
- Enrollment verification or recent transcripts (if already studying in the U.S.).
- Proof of address in the U.S. (rental agreement, utility bill, or university housing letter).
8. Proof of Relationship
- For Spouse: Original marriage certificate, translated to English if necessary.
- For Child: Original birth certificate, translated to English if necessary.
- Wedding photos or a few informal family photos can help strengthen the case during the interview.
9. Financial Documents
- Bank statements of the F-1 visa holder or sponsor showing sufficient funds to support dependents.
- Affidavit of support (if someone other than the F-1 holder is funding).
- Financial aid or scholarship letters (if applicable).
Additional Tips
- Organize all documents in a folder, and bring both originals and photocopies.
- Ensure documents are in English or accompanied by certified translations.
- Be prepared to answer basic questions about your relationship with the F-1 visa holder and your purpose for visiting the U.S.