F-2 Spouse or child of F-1 (Academic Student)
The F-2 visa is a type of non-immigrant visa that allows immediate family members of F-1 student visa holders to accompany the F-1 student to the U.S. It allows the dependents (spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21) of F-1 visa holders to accompany or join the F-1 visa holder in the United States while they are pursuing their studies. The duration of stay for F-2 visa holders is typically tied to the duration of the F-1 student’s program. If the F-1 student’s program is extended or changes, the F-2 visa holders must also make status/visa adjustments accordingly.
F-2 visa holders must maintain their dependent status according to the US immigration rules and regulations of the F-2 visa.
The visa comes with some restrictions. The adult visa holders cannot be gainfully employed and pursue education. They can only engage in non-vocational or recreative courses of study. However, children may engage in full time elementary or secondary school studies.
If an adult F-2 dependent wants to pursue studies in the US, then he/she must change his/her status to an F-1 student. This can be done within the US by filing change of status with the USCIS or going out of the US and applying for an F-1 visa in their home country.
The F-2 visa holders can travel outside of the United States and re-enter as long as their F-2 visa is valid. They must not only have an F-2 visa in their passport, but also carry the F-1 spouse’s valid Form I-20 and other necessary documents.
Period of Stay/Extension of Stay:
Initial Period of Stay: typically tied to the duration of the F-1 student’s program
Extension of Stay: If the F-1 student’s program is extended or changes, the F-2 visa holders must also make status/visa adjustments accordingly.