Change of Visa Status to F-2

• Submit the Add Dependent Request. For all dependents, the principal F-1 student must request that the dependent be added to their SEVIS record. This process will result in the issuance of the F-2 I-20.
• Apply for the F-2 visa using one of the methods described below (outside or inside the U.S.) and pay the associated fees.

The dependent can apply for the F-2 visa either outside or inside of the United States.  When applying outside the U.S., contact the U.S. consulate or embassy where the dependent will apply for complete details about the application process and a list of all documents needed. Generally, the applicant needs to submit a visa application and pay a fee. Once the F-2 visa is approved, the dependent will use the valid passport, visa and dependent I-20 to enter the U.S. in F-2 status.

When applying inside the U.S., the applicant seeking F-2 status must file the I-539 Application for Change of Status with USCIS, after obtaining the I-20 issued for the F-2 dependent. We advise the applicant to keep copies of all documents submitted to USCIS. We recommend filing the I-539 application online.

The Change of Status application process is lengthy. Generally, the applicant may remain in the U.S. to await the results. When the case is filed, USCIS will provide the applicant with a receipt and the case number. The applicant can use the case number to track the status of the application on the USCIS site.

Once the Change of Status has been APPROVED, provide a copy of the Approval Notice to UFIC within 15 days of receiving it.

• Application Fee: Review the I-539 page from USCIS for the latest fee information.
• Application Documents: We advise gathering the following documents before filing the case with USCIS.
  • Form I-20 for the F-2 dependent from the school
  • Current I-94 record
  • Proof of financial support. For any financial statements submitted to USCIS, they request the most recent 3 months of financial statements. All statements must be in English or accompanied by a certified English translation.
  • Copy of current passport, valid for at least 6 months in the future
  • Evidence of the current lawful status in the U.S.
  • Proof of marriage to the principal F-1
  • Evidence of the principal F-1’s current lawful status in the U.S., such as the F-1 I-20, the passport, visa, and I-94 record for the F-1.
  • A letter of explanation as to the reason for seeking the change of status.

• I-539 Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status
• I-94 Record – Needed as part of the application

• Case Status Online – To check the status of the application on the USCIS site
• USCIS Processing Times – To check the current processing times for applications pending at USCIS
• USCIS Change of Address – To update the mailing address with USCIS in the event the applicant moves
• Official USPS Change of Address – To update the mailing address with the U.S. Postal Service in the event the applicant moves