US intends to open consulate in Bengaluru, Ahmedabad - White House
The United States is one of the most popular destinations for students and professionals from India. Many individuals moving to the USA wish to bring their family members along. This is possible through dependent visas, which allow spouses, children, and sometimes parents to stay in the USA.
Understanding the dependent visa process is important to ensure a smooth relocation with family.
A dependent visa is issued to the family members of a primary visa holder such as a student or employee.
Eligible dependents may include:
• Spouse
• Children
• Parents in limited cases
The type of dependent visa depends on the primary visa holder’s category.
Students studying in the USA on an F1 visa can bring their dependents under the F2 visa category.
• Spouse of F1 visa holder
• Unmarried children under 21 years
• Stay legally in the USA with the primary applicant
• Children can attend school
• Spouse is generally not allowed to work
• Limited study options for dependents
Professionals working in the USA on H1B visa can bring their dependents under the H4 visa category.
• Spouse of H1B visa holder
• Children under 21 years
• Legal stay in the USA
• H4 EAD allows some spouses to work (subject to eligibility)
• Children can study in schools
Parents cannot directly apply under dependent visa categories like F2 or H4.
However, they can visit the USA through a B2 Visitor Visa.
• Short-term stay for tourism or family visits
• Usually granted for 6 months per visit
• Cannot work or stay permanently
Applicants must provide required documents when applying.
• Valid passport
• Visa of primary applicant
• Proof of relationship (marriage or birth certificate)
• Financial documents
• Invitation letter if required
Accurate documentation is important for visa approval.
The process involves several steps.
• Receive Form I-20 (for F2) or relevant approval (for H4)
• Fill DS-160 visa application form
• Pay visa fees
• Book visa appointment
• Attend visa interview
Applicants must answer questions clearly during the interview.
Before applying for a dependent visa, applicants should consider:
• Work restrictions for spouses
• Financial requirements
• Health insurance coverage
• Duration of stay
Understanding these factors helps avoid issues during the visa process.
Marko Careers provides expert counselling for students and professionals planning to move to the USA with family.
Services include:
• Study abroad and migration guidance
• Visa application assistance
• Dependent visa support
• Documentation guidance
Sandhya Enclave, Flat No 101
Dwarakapuri, Punjagutta
Hyderabad, Telangana 500082
📞 91000-02847
📧 info@markocareers.com
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Opp Maris Stella College
Ring Road, Benz Circle
NTR District, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh 520008
📞 98822 82456
📧 info@markocareers.com
Students can contact Marko Careers for complete guidance on USA dependent visas.
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