High-level overview
#F-2 is for dependents of F-1 students. The State Department and Study in the States guidance explain eligibility and required documents.
The F-2 path is tied to the F-1 student’s status and documents, so timing and documentation often depend on the principal applicant.
Common documents to prepare
#Identity documents. Valid passports are required, and the document validity should cover the intended travel period.
Relationship evidence. Marriage or birth certificates are common relationship documents for F-2 dependents.
School-issued documents. The principal student’s I-20 and related records are often central to the application.
Examples
#Example: A spouse applies for an F-2 using the F-1 student’s I-20 and a marriage certificate to prove the relationship.
Example: A child applies for F-2 with a birth certificate and the student’s school documents to show eligibility.
Common misconceptions
#“F-2 is independent of F-1 status.”
F-2 depends on the principal F-1 student’s status and documentation.
“Dependents do not need documents.”
Dependents must provide identity and relationship evidence, plus school documentation.
“All dependents follow the same steps.”
Requirements can differ by age and relationship; Study in the States details dependent‑specific steps.
How to plan
#Coordinate timing with the principal F-1 student’s application and document issuance. Gather relationship documents early and check if translations are needed.
Interview scheduling can be a gating step, so monitor wait times for your consular post.
When to talk to a professional
#- Prior denials or immigration violations
- Complex family situations or documentation gaps
- Time-sensitive travel with limited appointment slots
- Unclear relationship evidence
Next steps
#VisaMind helps you align dependent documents with the principal student’s timeline and official guidance.
Use the F-1 guide and Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan.
FAQs
Where can I verify official F-2 guidance?
The State Department student visa page and Study in the States dependents guidance explain eligibility and required documents for F-2 dependents.
Is an F-1 principal required?
Yes. F-2 is tied to the principal F-1 student’s status and documents.
Do F-2 applicants need a separate interview?
Interview requirements depend on the consular post and applicant profile. The State Department student visa guidance and post instructions explain requirements.
Are documents different for spouses and children?
Relationship evidence differs by applicant. Study in the States lists required records for each dependent type.
Sources
Last reviewed: 2026-01-29
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
Find my visa