F-2 Dependent(s)

Adding Dependents to an F-1 record 

Current EMU students who have an active F-1 record can add their dependents to their F-1 record anytime after they have completed our orientation and SEVIS Check-in. Incoming students who want to add dependents should contact the Office of International Admissions so they can add your dependent(s) during the admissions process. 

Eligibility 

To be eligible for the F-2 I-20 you must:

  • Be the spouse or child (under 21 years old) of the primary visa holder
  • F-1 record must be valid and active
  • Evidence of financial support of all dependents - show $6,325 in liquid funds per dependent

Documents Required to Obtain the Dependent I-20(s)

After receiving a F-2 Form I-20, the dependent may schedule a visa appointment to obtain their F-2 visa or may file a change of status to F-2 application with USCIS if they are already in the U.S. under another valid non-immigrant status. Please note, for legal reasons, OISS will not assist with the reviewing or filing of a I-539 Change of Status application.

Important Information about F-2 Status

F-2 dependents are not eligible for employment of any kind while in the U.S. in F-2 status. 

F-2 minors must follow compulsory education laws in Michigan. They may attend kindergarten through 12th grade full-time at a non-SEVP-certified school.

Part-time study is allowed for dependents at post-secondary institutions that are SEVP-certified only. Taking a full-time course load of classes is not allowed in F-2 status. Online course limits do not apply to F-2 dependents.

Dependent children are only eligible for F-2 status up to the age of 21. Children who turn 21 years old while in F-2 status will need to leave the U.S. or change to another status before their 21st birthday. 

F-2 dependents must have a valid travel signature on their I-20 for re-entry to the U.S.

F-2 visa status is tied directly to the primary F-1 visa holder, if the F-1 status is terminated or completed the F-2 status will also end. 

Once the F-1 student completes their program and leaves the U.S., the F-2 dependents must leave, as well. There is a 60-day grace period following the program end date on the I-20.

F-2 dependents are not eligible for EMU’s student insurance plan, you will need to find alternative health insurance options for any dependents a student chooses to bring with them.

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