US F2 Visa: Eligibility and Application Process

The US Government has authorized foreign students to bring their immediate family members to America under the US F2 visa. Here are some commonly asked questions:

1. ● What is the F2 Visa?
2. ● What is the process of the F2 Visa application?
3. ● What types of documents are needed?

Thao & Co. will answer these questions and more below in this detailed article.

What is a US F2 Visa?

The US F2 Visa is issued to the dependents who are spouses or unmarried (minor) children of F1 visa holders.

Upon obtaining this visa, you are permitted to accompany F1 visa students to the US or join them later. The type of nonimmigrant visa is categorized into 2 types:

1. ● The F2A Visa: for spouses or unmarried children under 21 years old
2. ● The F2B Visa: for spouses or unmarried children over 21 years old

Requirements for F2 Dependent Visa application

To be eligible for F2 Dependent Visa, an applicant must satisfy these requirements:

1. ● Being a spouse or unmarried child of an F1 visa holder
2. ● Presenting the documents proving your relationship with an F1 visa. You must demonstrate financial capability to cover all expenses for the duration of your stay in the United States.

What are the necessary documents for F2 Visa?

Here is the checklist of documentation to prepare for the application:

1. ● Form DS-160
2. ● Both students and their dependents’ personal papers: Passports, Household Registration Books, Justice Record Checks and more
3. ● A copy of the marriage certificate
4. ● A copy of the birth certificate or adoption documents
5. ● Proof of financial capability: Bank statements, Passbooks and more
6. ● Evidence to support your return to your home country after the F1 visa holder finishes their studies: Land ownership documents, wills, etc.

A step-by-step guide to applying for F2 Dependent Visa

The process involves 6 steps:

Step 1: F1 visa student provides their Form I-20.

Step 2: Access https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/. Then, fill in the Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160.

Step 3: Pay visa application fee:

1. ● Go to https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/ and choose “Schedule Appointment.”
2. ● Specify the Visa Type, Post, Visa Category and Visa Class.
3. ● When you go to the “Payment” screen, click on your payment option and print out your deposit slip.
4. ● Bring the printed slip to the designated location. Then, pay for the fee and keep the receipt for your records.

Step 4: Schedule a visa interview

Before setting a schedule, equip yourself with:

1. ● Passport number
2. ● Visa fee receipt number
3. ● Ten-digit barcode number from DS-160 confirmation page

Step 5: Attend the interview

1. ● Please make sure to arrive at the Consulate for your interview 15 minutes prior to the scheduled date and time.
2. ● Remember to carry your appointment letter, form DS-160, and passport with you.

Step 6: Receive the visa

Once the application is approved, your visa will be returned with your passport to the address you provided.

The latest F2 visa application fee

The updated fee for F2 Dependent Visa is 185 USD/visa. Notes: You will pay in the local currency based on the consular/new exchange rate.

The payment you make is non-returnable, even if your application is denied.

FAQs about F2 Dependent Visa

Check out answers to the top 4 common questions about the F2 Dependent visa:

1. Where to seek professional visa application translation services?

All non-English documents submitted must be accompanied by an English translation. Additionally, a certificate confirming the accuracy of the translation and the translator’s qualifications must be included.

Errors can result in delays or even the rejection of an application by the relevant authorities.

Therefore, to be on the safe side, certified translation agencies are a prudent choice.

Partner with Thao & Co. – A Transparent and Different Kind of Translation Company

More than flawless translations, we offer a full suite of premium services:

1. ● Ensure all F2 visa application documents such as personal papers, evidence of financial stability, and purpose of travel documents are accurately translated and correctly formatted.
2. ● Extensive translation service featuring over 50 languages — from common to rare pairs.
3. ● A team of professional linguists, all of whom are graduates with English majors and hold international qualifications.
4. ● Our Certificate of Translation Accuracy, which meets the Consulate’s quality standards, is provided free of charge.
5. ● Price transparency without hidden fees.
6. ● Leverage Thao & Co.’s proprietary platform for seamless progress tracking, file transfers, and quotes.

Reach out to us today to get a free quote!

2. What is the success rate of F2 Dependent Visa approval?

Obtaining an F2 US visa is typically not overly challenging. Once international students secure an F1 visa, the likelihood of their dependents obtaining an F2 dependent visa improves.

Therefore, ensure you meet all the criteria and submit every necessary document with integrity.

3. How long does it take to process an F2 visa?

The processing time is expected to be approximately 14 days following the interview. Remember to gather all necessary documents right from the start. Failing to do so may delay the visa issuance process.

4. Can dependents of F1 visa holders get a job in the US?

The answer is No. An F2 visa doesn’t allow you to work. Still, you can undertake part-time or short-term courses in the US. If you meet the requirements, you can also change your status to F1, M1, or J1 visa.

Here are the essential details to know about the F2 visa application. Overall, the process above is relatively straightforward. That said, sufficient documentation with certified translations maximizes your chance to the US.

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