F-2 Dependents
As an OHIO student with an F-1 visa, you may wish to bring a dependent with you to Athens. It鈥檚 important to meet immigration qualifications and follow regulations as you plan to bring any dependents with you.
Qualifications
Immigration regulations allow the following individuals to apply for an F-2 visa to accompany an F-1 student to the U.S.
- Spouse*
- Unmarried children under the age of 21
*Same-sex spouses can qualify for an F-2 visa if the marriage is 鈥渞ecognized in the place of celebration鈥. (Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs)
Other family members are not eligible for F-2 dependent status. However, they may be eligible to apply for a B-2 visa to allow them to accompany the student. For more information on the B-2 visa, please contact a U.S. embassy/consulate.
How to Invite a Dependent
An F-1 student already in the U.S. can invite an eligible dependent to join them on an F-2 visa. Students should use the iCats system to invite a dependent:
- and select "F-1 Student Services" from the left-side menu.
- In F-1 Student Services, you'll see a list of e-forms, including "Add a New Dependent."
- Submit a new form for each dependent you wish to add.
Please note: You will be asked to upload financial documentation to demonstrate that you can cover the living expenses for your dependent(s) in addition to your own program expenses for the duration of the program. You will also be asked to upload a copy of their passport(s).
F-2 Dependent Restrictions
Individuals who qualify for F-2 status may be subject to various restrictions while living in the U.S. Review each category to learn more. However, if you have questions or need additional guidance, please contact the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) department.
Study
Children in F-2 status may attend Kindergarten through 12th grade (the end of secondary education) full-time. Post-secondary study is only allowed on a part-time basis.
ISSS is not required to monitor or report F-2 enrollment, and F-2 visa holders who wish to study part-time at OHIO do not need to get permission from ISSS.
Employment
F-2 visa holders are not allowed to be employed under any circumstances. Volunteer work at local not-for-profit organizations is allowed.
Travel
An F-2 visa holder may travel with or without the F-1 student. The dependent will need to obtain a travel signature from ISSS, and they will need to have a valid F-2 visa stamp in order to return to the U.S.