F-2
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      1. The White Paper for F1 Students
      2. Dependent Visas
      3. F-2

      F-2 Application Process & Required Materials

      This article provides a detailed guide on how to apply for an F-2 visa, including all the required documents.

      Application Materials

      • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)

      • Passport-style photo (2 inches x 2 inches, taken within the last 6 months)

      • DS-160 confirmation page

      • Visa application fee receipt

      • F-2 I-20 (signed by both the school DSO and the applicant)

      • Legal identification of the F-1 visa holder in the U.S. (such as I-20, passport, visa, I-94, etc.)

      • Proof of relationship to the F-1 visa holder (such as marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.)

      • Financial proof (such as bank statements, property certificates, stocks, tax documents, sponsor's letter of explanation, etc.)

       

      Application Process

      Step 1: Obtain the F-2 I-20

      The F-1 visa holder must apply for an I-20 form for their family members through their school's International Students Office. Once you obtain the F-2 I-20, you can start the F-2 visa application process.

      Step 2: Complete Form DS-160 Online

      Fill out Form DS-160 online. After completion, print the confirmation page. You will need to upload a passport-style photo taken within the last 6 months.

      Step 3: Pay the Visa Application Fee

      The F-2 visa application fee is $185. This fee must be paid to schedule the interview. Unlike the F-1 visa holder, the F-2 applicant does not need to pay the SEVIS fee.

      Step 4: Schedule a Visa Interview

      After paying the fee, schedule your visa interview. You will need to provide the following materials:

      • A valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity.

      • The receipt number for the visa application fee.

      • The 10-digit barcode number from the DS-160 confirmation page.

      Step 5: Attend the Visa Interview

      Bring all the required application materials and attend your interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate at the scheduled time. It is advisable to arrive 30 minutes to an hour early.

      The F-2 visa interview process is similar to that of the F-1 visa. Please refer to:

      F-1 Visa Application: Interview Process

      Interview Tips:

      • Align with the F-2 Visa Purpose: Clearly state that your purpose is to accompany the F-1 visa holder. Avoid mentioning plans to study or work in the U.S. in the future, as this may lead to denial.

      • Avoid Expressing Immigration Intent: Emphasize your intention to return to your home country after the F-1 visa holder completes their studies. Do not suggest any plans for long-term working in the U.S.

      • Know Your Spouse's Details: Be well-informed about your spouse’s university, major, address, and source of funding. This helps verify the authenticity of your marriage and your motive for going to the U.S.

      Step 6: Wait for the Result

      Usually, you will know the result of your interview immediately. There are three possible results:

      • Approval: The visa officer will keep your passport and return the other materials. You will receive your passport with the visa by mail within 1-2 weeks.
      • Administrative Processing: If additional information is required, you will be asked to provide more documents or return for another interview.
      • Denial: If your application is denied, review your application materials and consider whether any of your interview answers raised concerns. If so, address these issues and prepare to reapply.