A Guide to the American Student Family (F2) Visa
Are you planning to pursue your education in the United States of America (USA)? If yes, you should know about the American Student Family (F2) visa. This visa is for the dependents of F1 visa holders, who are pursuing a full-time academic program in a US college or university. In this article, we will guide you through the essential information about the F2 visa, its requirements, and the documentation process.
Who is eligible for an F2 visa?
An F2 visa is applicable to the spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age of an F1 visa holder. If the F1 visa holder is planning to study in the USA, their dependents can apply for an F2 visa to accompany them. However, F2 visa holders cannot perform any work in the USA, but they can enroll in educational programs less than full-time.
What are the requirements for an F2 visa?
To apply for an F2 visa, the following requirements must be met:
- The primary F1 visa holder must have a valid I-20 form from their school and must be pursuing a full-time academic program.
- The dependents should demonstrate a bona fide marriage (if they are a spouse) or a legitimate parent-child relationship (if they are children).
- The dependents should not violate any immigration laws in the past.
- The dependents must ensure that they have enough funds to support themselves in the USA without any external aid.
What is the documentation process for an F2 visa?
The documentation process for an F2 visa is similar to any other nonimmigrant visa. Here are the documents required:
- A Valid Passport: The dependents must have a valid passport that will remain valid even after their visa expires.
- Nonimmigrant Visa Application: The nonimmigrant visa application (Form DS-160) must be filled out by the dependents, with each applicant for an F2 visa needing a separate form.
- Photographs: The dependents must provide two recent passport-size photographs taken within the last six months.
- Proof of Relationship: The dependents must prove their relationship with the primary F1 visa holder by submitting marriage certificates or birth certificates.
- Financial Support: The dependents must provide evidence of sufficient funds to support themselves without any external assistance during their stay in the USA. This can be in the form of bank statements, income tax returns, or any other relevant financial documents.
- F1 visa holder’s documents: The dependents should also provide a copy of the F1 visa holder’s I-20 form and passport.
What is the processing time for an F2 visa?
The processing time for an F2 visa varies depending on the location where you applied for the visa. You can check the estimated processing time on the U.S. Department of State’s website. However, it is advisable to apply for the visa at least three months in advance of the intended travel date.
Can an F2 visa holder work in the USA?
An F2 visa holder is not allowed to work in the USA. However, they can enroll in educational programs less than full-time. F2 visa holders can also volunteer to work without receiving any payment.
Can an F2 visa holder study in the USA?
Yes, an F2 visa holder can study in the USA. They can enroll in educational programs less than full-time. However, if the F2 visa holder wishes to pursue an academic program full-time, they must acquire an F1 visa by fulfilling all the requirements.
Do F2 visa holders need to maintain a legal status throughout their stay in the USA?
Yes, F2 visa holders must maintain their legal status throughout their stay in the USA. They must attend school or volunteer work (if done) according to the visa regulations. Otherwise, they may lose their legal status and be subject to deportation.
Can an F2 visa holder travel outside the USA?
Yes, F2 visa holders can travel outside the USA. However, they must have a valid visa and travel document to re-enter the USA.
Conclusion
The F2 visa is a crucial document for dependents of F1 visa holders who wish to pursue a full-time academic program in the USA. The F2 visa provides dependents with an opportunity to accompany their loved ones during their education in the USA. We hope this article has provided you with an understanding of the F2 visa, its requirements, and the documentation process.
FAQs
1. How long can an F2 visa holder stay in the USA?
An F2 visa holder can stay in the USA as long as the F1 visa holder maintains legal status.
2. Is an interview mandatory for an F2 visa?
Not all F2 visa applicants need to attend an interview. Dependents aged 13 or younger can submit their visa applications without an interview. However, those older than 13 years must attend an interview as per the requirements.
3. Can an F2 visa holder apply for work authorization?
Yes, an F2 visa holder can apply for work authorization under certain circumstances. They can apply if they face a severe financial crisis that cannot be resolved by other means, or if their spouse F1 visa holder has completed their academic program and applies for Optional Practical Training (OPT).
4. Can an F2 visa holder change their visa status to an F1 visa?
An F2 visa holder can change their visa status to an F1 visa if they wish to pursue a full-time academic program. However, they must fulfill all the requirements of an F1 visa.