F-2 Visa Guide for Spouse and Children

If you are an F-1 student and wish to request an F-2 Form I-20 for your spouse or child so that they can apply for an F-2 visa, please use the F-2 Dependent Addition Form.

 

If you apply for an I-20 and secure an F-2 visa appointment for your child or spouse, you can attempt to bring your spouse or child to accompany you in the United States.

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Required Documents

In order to process your request, you must email the following documents to ISSS@ucmo.edu.

Note: We cannot begin processing your dependent I-20(s) until all supporting documents have been received.

1. Bank Statement & Financial Support Documentation
   
   • Must show sufficient funds to cover your program costs plus an additional $4,000 for each dependent.
   • A bank statement and completed Declaration of Financial Support.
     
     
2. Passport Copy
   
   • For each dependent you are requesting to add.
     
     
3. Marriage Certificate (for spouse)
   • A clear copy in English or with certified English translation.
     
     
4. Birth Certificate(s) (for children)
   • A clear copy in English or with certified English translation.

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If you have questions about the process or documentation, please contact us at ISSS@ucmo.edu.

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Important Requirement for F/J Dependents Turning 14

 

If your dependent child turns 14 while in the U.S., you must ensure they complete a mandatory registration process with USCIS within 30 days of their 14th birthday.

According to updated guidance from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), any non-U.S. citizen who turns 14 years old while in the U.S. must register with DHS within 30 days—even if they were previously registered when entering the U.S. with a visa.

This includes:

• F-2, J-2, H-4, and other dependent visa holders
• Lawful permanent residents
• Any non-U.S. citizen who was not previously registered and fingerprinted when applying for their visa

Failure to comply with this requirement can result in serious consequences with the federal government.

We strongly encourage you to review the full USCIS guidance and initiate this process well in advance of your child’s 14th birthday to ensure compliance.