1. What are the requirements for a family member to be eligible for an F-2 or M-2 visa?

In order to be eligible for an F-2 or M-2 visa, an individual must be:

1. The spouse or child (under 21 years of age) of a student (F-1 or M-1) lawfully admitted to the United States to pursue a full course of study.

2. Financially dependent on the student.

3. Seeking to enter the US for the purpose of accompanying the student and participating in activities consistent with their status as a dependent, such as sharing the student’s home and taking part in family activities.

4. Holding a valid passport and, if required, a valid visa for an F-2 or M-2 nonimmigrant status.

2. How long can an F-2 or M-2 visa holder remain in the United States?

An F-2 or M-2 visa holder can remain in the United States for as long as their F-1 or M-1 visa holder’s status is valid, usually for the duration of their academic program. Typically, F-2 and M-2 visa holders must depart the U.S. when their F-1 or M-1 visa holders complete their program or when their status expires, whichever comes first.

3. Are family members of an F-2 or M-2 visa holder allowed to work?

No, family members of an F-2 or M-2 visa holder are not allowed to work.

4. Is an F-2 or M-2 visa holder allowed to attend school in the United States?

No, F-2 and M-2 visa holders are not allowed to attend school in the United States. They can, however, engage in certain types of study, including language courses and recreational studies, as long as such activities are not part of a full course of study leading to a degree or certificate.

5. What documents are required when applying for an F-2 or M-2 visa?

When applying for an F-2 or M-2 visa, the following documents are required:

-A valid passport
-A completed and signed Form DS-160, Nonimmigrant Visa Application
-A photograph meeting the requirements of the US Department of State
-Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses during your stay in the US
-Proof of relationship to the F-1 or M-1 visa holder (if applicable)
-Proof of admission or acceptance to a school or program in the US (if applicable)
-Any required documents for special circumstances, such as onsite visits and internships (if applicable)

6. How does an individual apply for an F-2 or M-2 visa?

An individual applies for an F-2 or M-2 visa by submitting a visa application at a U.S. embassy or consulate, along with the required documentation. The required documents typically include a valid passport, a nonimmigrant visa application form (Form DS-160), a photograph, and evidence of financial support such as a bank statement. Additional documents may be required, such as proof of relationship to the F-1 or M-1 student, and proof that the applicant will return to their home country after completing the program in the U.S.

7. What is the application processing time for an F-2 or M-2 visa?

The processing time for an F-2 or M-2 visa is typically between 4 and 8 weeks. It can take longer depending on the country of origin, the applicant’s individual circumstances, and the current processing times at the US Embassy or Consulate where the application is being processed.

8. What is the cost of an F-2 or M-2 visa?

The cost of an F-2 or M-2 visa is $265. This fee includes the MRV application fee.

9. Are there any restrictions on activities that can be pursued by F-2 and M-2 visa holders while in the United States?

Yes, there are restrictions on activities that can be pursued by F-2 and M-2 visa holders while in the United States. F-2 visa holders are generally not allowed to work in the United States, and M-2 visa holders are only allowed to pursue studies that are related to their accompanying spouse’s primary purpose for entering the country. In addition, both F-2 and M-2 visa holders are not allowed to stay in the United States for longer than the duration of their accompanying spouse’s visa status.

10. Can family members of an F-2 or M-2 student extend their stay beyond the expiration date of their visas?

No, family members of an F-2 or M-2 student are not able to extend their stay beyond the expiration date of their visas. They must apply for a new visa before the expiration date.

11. Is it possible to change from an F-2 to an M-2 student visa status after arrival in the United States?

Yes, it is possible to change from an F-2 to an M-2 student visa status after arrival in the United States. However, the process can be complicated and may require extensive paperwork. It is recommended that you speak with an immigration attorney before attempting to change your status.

12. Is it possible to transfer from one school to another while on an F-2 or M-2 student visa?

Yes, it is possible to transfer from one school to another while on an F-2 or M-2 student visa. However, there are certain requirements that must be met in order to do so. Generally speaking, the transferring student must have maintained their current status for at least one academic year and must have been enrolled in the prior school for at least two semesters. Additionally, the student must meet the admission requirements of the new school and obtain an I-20 from the new school prior to the transfer. Finally, the student must inform USCIS of their intent to transfer.

13. Is it possible to travel outside of the U.S. while on an F-2 or M-2 student visa?

No, it is not possible to travel outside of the U.S. while on an F-2 or M-2 student visa. A student on an F-2 or M-2 visa must maintain a full course of study in the U.S. while on the visa and may not travel outside of the country for more than five months without prior approval from Immigration Services.

14. What is the difference between a tourist visa and an F-2 or M-2 student visa?

A tourist visa is a short-term nonimmigrant visa that allows an individual to enter the United States for a limited period of time, typically for pleasure, tourism, or business. An F-2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa for the dependents of F-1 visa holders (spouses and unmarried children under 21). An M-2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa for the dependents of an M-1 visa holder (spouses and unmarried children under 21).

15. Can I stay in the U.S longer than my F-2 or M-2 student visa expiration date?

No. You must leave the U.S. before your F-2 or M-2 student visa expires. If you stay in the U.S. beyond the expiration date, you may be subject to removal proceedings and you may be denied future visas and reentry into the U.S.

16. How long can my family members stay with me during my time with an F-2 or M-2 student visa?

F-2 and M-2 visa holders are allowed to stay in the United States as long as the F-1 or M-1 visa holder remains in valid status. Generally, the family members of F-2 or M-2 visa holders can stay for the duration of the F-1 or M-1 student’s program, including any authorized practical training.

17. Are family members of students on an F-2 or M-2 student visa eligible for any government benefits?

No, family members of F-2 and M-2 student visa holders are not eligible for any government benefits. However, they may be eligible to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) if they have authorization for employment from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

18. Are family members of students on an F-2 or M-2 student visa eligible for Social Security benefits?

No, family members of students on F-2 or M-2 visas are not eligible for Social Security benefits.

19. Can I bring my spouse and/or children with me when I travel to the US on an F-2 or M-2 student visa?

Yes, your spouse and/or children may accompany you when you travel to the US on an F-2 or M-2 student visa. They will need to have their own F-2 or M-2 visas, and will need to meet all other requirements for admission into the US.

20. What kind of travel documents do my family members need to enter the US as dependents of an F-2 or M-2 student?

Your family members will need to obtain F-2 or M-2 dependent visas in order to enter the US as dependents of an F-2 or M-2 student. They must apply for these visas at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where they plan to apply for the visa.