Office of Global Engagement
International Students and Scholars

F-2 Dependent of F-1 Students

For immigration purposes, dependents are defined as a spouse or unmarried, minor (under age 21) children.

Breadcrumb

In order to accompany the F-1 student, the dependent must obtain an F-2 Form I-20, and either apply for an F-2 visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate, or, if in the U.S. in another status, submit an application for a change of status to the USCIS.

Documentation of the legal relationship between spouses* (i.e. official marriage certificate) or parent and child (i.e. official birth certificate or legal adoption papers) must be presented during the visa application process or included in the change of status application. *In order for same-sex spouses to be eligible for F-2 status, the marriage must be recognized in the place of celebration.

Other family members who do not meet the eligibility requirements for F-2 status, but wish to accompany the F-1 student may wish to explore possible alternative immigration options at the U.S. Department of State website.

Request F-2 Form I-20

Log in to your OISSS Gateway portal to begin the Add New Dependent request.

In order to request an F-2 Form I-20, the F-1 student must submit the following documentation to OISSS:

  1. Copy of passport biographical page for each individual dependent
  2. Copy of Marriage Certificate with English Translation (For F-2 Spouse)
  3. Financial documentation* showing ability to cover dependent expenses in the following amounts:
    • Dependent Spouse: $7,248 USD per year ($604/month)
    • Dependent Child: $5,172 USD per year for each child ($431/month)

* Financial documents can be in the form of a bank statement or bank letter in English or with official English translation issued within the last 90 days.

Processing Time: 10 business days

Limitations on F-2 Work and Study

  • F-2 dependents are not allowed to work or engage in business activities at any point during their F-2 status.
  • F-2 dependents can enroll in classes part-time, but are required to change to F-1 status to pursue a degree full-time.
  • F-2 minor children can engage in full-time study at the K-12 level.

Extension of F-1 Status

Students who are not able to complete their current program by the expected end date because of valid academic or medical reasons, must apply for a program extension with the OISSS.

Full-time Enrollment Requirement

All F-1 students are required to be enrolled in a full-time course of study every academic semester for the entire length of their academic program.

Taking a Leave of Absence

By taking a leave of absence a student is no longer full-time enrolled and this will affect their F-1 status.