F-2 Dependent Visa in Placentia: Rights and Restrictions for Student Families
Understanding what F-2 visa holders can and cannot do in the United States
Quick Answer
F-2 dependent visa holders (spouses and children of F-1 students) can live in the U.S. but face restrictions on work and study. Understanding these limitations helps families plan their time in America.
Reviewed for accuracy by
Maria Santos
DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience
For international student families in Placentia, the F-2 dependent visa allows spouses and children to accompany F-1 students. SoCal Immigration Services helps Arab families understand F-2 benefits and limitations with Arabic-speaking support.
What is an F-2 Visa?
• Spouses of F-1 students
• Unmarried children under 21 of F-1 students
• Allows living in the U.S. while F-1 student studies
• Duration tied to F-1 student's status
• Cannot work in the United States
F-2 Eligibility Requirements
- •Be legally married to F-1 student (spouse) or be unmarried child under 21
- •F-1 student must maintain valid status
- •Proof of financial support for entire family
- •Valid passport with sufficient validity
- •Evidence of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates)
- •Intent to return home after studies
What F-2 Visa Holders Can Do
| Activity | Permitted? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Live in U.S. with F-1 spouse/parent | Yes | Must maintain valid status |
| Part-time study (K-12) | Yes | No restrictions for children |
| Part-time study (college) | Yes | Less than full course load |
| Full-time study | No | Must change to F-1 |
| Recreational classes | Yes | Non-credit, hobby courses |
| Volunteer work | Yes | Unpaid, no job displacement |
| Open bank accounts | Yes | Standard banking allowed |
| Get driver's license | Yes | State requirements vary |
| Travel in/out of U.S. | Yes | With valid visa and I-20 |
F-2 Work Restrictions
• No employment authorization of any kind
• Cannot apply for EAD (Employment Authorization Document)
• Cannot accept paid positions
• Cannot do freelance or self-employment
• Violation can result in deportation
This is the most significant limitation of F-2 status.
F-2 Study Limitations
- 1K-12 Children
Full-time attendance at elementary/high school is allowed
- 2Adult Spouses - Part-Time
Can take classes but NOT full course of study
- 3Full-Time Study Not Allowed
Must change to F-1 status for degree program
- 4Vocational/Language Courses
Recreational classes are generally acceptable
- 5Change to F-1
Apply for change of status before enrolling full-time
Maintaining F-2 Status
- •F-1 principal student must maintain valid status
- •Keep I-94 record current
- •Update SEVIS with address changes
- •Carry valid I-20 with F-2 dependent endorsement
- •Don't overstay authorized period
- •Don't engage in unauthorized employment
- •Report to school DSO for any changes
If F-1 Student Changes Schools
• F-2 dependents must also transfer in SEVIS
• Get new I-20 from the new school
• F-2 status tied to F-1 student's school
• Coordinate with both schools' DSOs
• Update address with new school
Options If F-2 Spouse Wants to Work
• Change to F-1 and qualify for CPT/OPT
• Change to H-4 if spouse gets H-1B (H-4 EAD possible)
• Change to different work-authorized status
• Wait until F-1 spouse gets work status
• Remote work for non-U.S. employer (complex rules)
F-2 to F-1 Change of Status
• Apply to SEVP-certified school
• Get acceptance and I-20
• File Form I-539 for change of status
• Pay applicable fees
• Wait for approval before enrolling full-time
• May take 3-6 months to process
F-2 Travel Considerations
• Valid F-2 visa required for re-entry (unless visa-exempt)
• Valid I-20 with recent travel signature
• F-1 student's status must be valid
• Bring proof of relationship
• Check if visa needs renewal at consulate
Placentia F-2 Visa Services
- •F-2 visa application and extension
- •Change of status from F-2 to F-1
- •F-1/F-2 status maintenance guidance
- •Travel document preparation
- •School transfer coordination
- •Arabic and English speaking support
FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Q:Can F-2 spouse work at all?
A: No. F-2 visa holders are strictly prohibited from any employment in the United States. There is no work authorization available for F-2 status, unlike some other dependent visas.
Q:Can F-2 children attend school?
A: Yes. F-2 children can attend elementary, middle, and high school full-time. They can also attend college part-time. For full-time college, they must change to F-1 status.
Q:What happens if F-1 student graduates?
A: When the F-1 student completes studies or OPT, F-2 dependents must also leave or change status. The 60-day grace period for F-1 students applies to F-2 dependents as well.
Q:Can F-2 spouse take English classes?
A: Yes, F-2 spouses can take part-time English or recreational classes. However, they cannot enroll in a full course of study or degree program without changing to F-1 status.
Q:How long can I stay on F-2 visa?
A: F-2 status lasts as long as the F-1 student maintains valid status, plus the 60-day grace period after completion. You must have a valid I-20 and maintain status throughout.
Q:Can I get a Social Security Number on F-2?
A: Generally no. SSN requires work authorization, which F-2 holders don't have. You may get an ITIN for tax purposes if needed for specific reasons.
Questions About F-2 Dependent Status?
Our team helps international student families understand their rights and options. Free consultation for Placentia area families.
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