USA Dependent, Spouse/Fiance - H1B, H4 Visa Consultants in Ahmedabad & Surat
The United States is a top destination for global migrants and offers various visa categories designed to keep families together. If you’re a professional, student, or entrepreneur in the USA, you can bring your spouse, children, or other dependents through specific dependent visas. SWEC Visa has extensive experience guiding families through the USA Dependent Visa process, ensuring a smooth application journey so your loved ones can join you in the USA.
Types of USA Dependent Visas
F2 Visa (Dependent of F1 Visa Holders)
- Overview: The F2 Visa is a non-immigrant visa issued to the dependents (spouses and children under 21) of F1 student visa holders. F2 visa holders can stay with the principal visa holder for the duration of their F1 visa.
- Key Features:
- F2 visa holders cannot work or engage in paid employment in the USA.
- F2 visa holders are not allowed to enrol in degree-awarding programs but may take recreational or vocational courses.
- F2 children can attend school (K-12) in the USA.
- Eligibility:
- Must be a spouse or an unmarried child (under 21) of an F1 student visa holder.
- Financial capability must be demonstrated to support the dependents during their stay.
J2 Visa (Dependent of J1 Visa Holders)
- Overview: The J2 Visa is issued to dependents of J1 visa holders participating in exchange programs for research, medical training, business, or cultural exchange. J2 visa holders may seek employment authorization in the USA.
- Key Features:
- Eligible to apply for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to work in the USA.
- May enrol in educational institutions and pursue degrees or vocational courses.
- Can apply for a driver’s license, open a bank account, and access healthcare services.
- Eligibility:
- Must be a spouse or child (under 21) of a J1 visa holder.
- J1 visa holders must be participating in an eligible exchange program in the USA.
H4 Visa (Dependent of H1B Visa Holders)
- Overview: The H4 Visa is for dependents (spouses and children under 21) of H1B visa holders who are working in specialized professions in the USA. H4 visa holders may be eligible to apply for work authorization depending on the principal visa holder’s status.
- Key Features:
- H4 visa holders can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) if the principal H1B visa holder is on the path to a green card (has an approved I-140 form).
- May study full-time or part-time in the USA without restrictions.
- Can apply for a driver’s license, open a bank account, and access social services.
- Eligibility:
- Must be a spouse or child (under 21) of an H1B visa holder.
- The principal H1B visa must be valid, and dependents must prove their relationship with the H1B holder.
Other Dependent Visas
- Overview: Various other dependent visas exist for family members of individuals legally residing in the USA, such as permanent residents, athletes, scientists, asylum seekers, and refugees.
- Key Features:
- Dependent visa holders may reside in the USA with the principal visa holder.
- Eligibility and conditions vary depending on the principal visa holder’s status and visa category.
Features of USA Dependent Visas
- Family Reunification: The USA-dependent visa system allows families to stay together by enabling spouses and children of visa holders to join them in the USA.
- Residency: Dependent visa holders can legally reside in the USA for the duration of the principal visa holder’s stay.
- Employment Authorization: Some dependent visas, like the H4 and J2, allow dependents to work in the USA once they receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
- Education: Dependent visa holders, especially children, have access to the US education system. They can attend school or college, and in some cases, the spouse can also pursue studies.
- Driver’s License & Financial Services: Dependent visa holders can apply for a driver’s license, open bank accounts, and access other financial services.
- Healthcare Access: Dependents can access healthcare and social services in the USA, ensuring their well-being during their stay.
Eligibility Criteria for USA Dependent Visas
F2 Visa:
- Must be the spouse or unmarried child (under 21) of an F1 visa holder.
- The F1 visa holder must maintain valid status throughout the dependent’s stay.
- Financial proof showing sufficient funds to support the family in the USA is required.
J2 Visa:
- Must be the spouse or child of a J1 visa holder.
- The J1 visa holder must be engaged in an eligible exchange program (research, training, etc.).
- J2 visa holders must apply for employment authorization if they wish to work.
H4 Visa:
- Must be the spouse or child (under 21) of an H1B visa holder.
- The principal H1B visa must be valid.
- Dependents must provide proof of their relationship with the H1B holder.
General Criteria for All Dependent Visas:
- Must prove a legal family relationship with the principal visa holder.
- Must demonstrate sufficient financial stability to support themselves without requiring public assistance.
Application Process for USA Dependent Visas
Determine Visa Type: Select the appropriate dependent visa based on the principal visa holder’s status (F1, J1, H1B, etc.).
Complete Form DS-160: Fill out the online non-immigrant visa application form (DS-160) for each dependent. Pay the visa application fees.
Gather Required Documents: Collect necessary documents such as:
- A valid passport and previous travel history.
- DS-160 visa confirmation.
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.).
- Financial documents showing the principal visa holder’s ability to support the dependent.
- Principal visa holder’s I-20 or I-797 form (for F2, H4 visas).
Visa Interview: Schedule an interview at the nearest US embassy or consulate. Both the dependent and the principal visa holder’s documents must be presented.
Visa Approval: If the visa is approved, the dependent can travel to the USA and live with the principal visa holder.
Documents Required for USA Dependent Visa Application
- Passport: Valid passport with recent travel history.
- Visa Application Form DS-160: Completed online visa application form for each dependent.
- Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs adhering to US visa requirements.
- Marriage Certificate/Birth Certificate: Proof of relationship with the principal visa holder.
- Financial Proof: Bank statements, tax records, or employment documents showing sufficient financial resources.
- Principal Visa Holder’s Documents: I-20 (F1) or I-797 (H1B), depending on the visa category.
- Visa Fee Payment Receipt: Proof of payment for the visa application fee.
Processing Timeline for USA Dependent Visa
The processing time for dependent visas varies, typically ranging from 15 to 30 working days. This timeline may depend on factors such as the consulate’s workload, the visa type, and the timing of the interview. If the dependent’s visa application is submitted at the same time as the principal visa holder’s, both may be processed concurrently. Early application is advised to avoid delays.
Fees for USA Dependent Visa
The application fee for most USA-dependent visas is generally $160. Additional fees may apply for employment authorization (EAD) applications for H4 and J2 visa holders. SWEC will guide any additional costs or documentation requirements.
Benefits of USA Dependent Visas
- Family Cohesion: Dependent visas allow families to stay together, fostering emotional and mental well-being.
- Residency Rights: Dependents can legally live in the USA for the duration of the principal visa holder’s stay.
- Work Authorization: Some dependents, such as H4 and J2 visa holders, may apply for work permits and pursue careers in the USA.
- Educational Opportunities: Dependents can attend schools and, in some cases, pursue higher education in the USA.
- Driver’s License & Financial Access: Dependent visa holders can apply for a driver’s license and gain access to banking services.
Why Choose SWEC for USA Dependent Visa Assistance?
At SWEC Visa, we specialize in providing personalized, expert guidance throughout the entire USA Dependent Visa process. Here’s why you should choose us:
- Expert Consultation: Our team of experienced immigration consultants helps you identify the right dependent visa for your family, ensuring a streamlined application process.
- Comprehensive Support: From document preparation to interview coaching, we assist you every step of the way.
- Tailored Solutions: We offer customized solutions based on your unique situation and visa requirements.
- Proven Success: With years of experience in US immigration services, SWEC has successfully helped families reunite in the USA.
For hassle-free, detailed, and successful dependent visa applications, Consult SWEC’s professional visa and immigration experts today!
Choosing the Right Country for Your Dependent Visa
Selecting the right country for your dependent visa can be a critical decision. At SWEC, we provide expert guidance tailored to each country’s specific visa requirements, ensuring a smooth and successful application process. Whether it’s the UK, USA, Canada, or Australia, our experienced team will help you navigate the complexities of dependent visa applications and reunite with your loved ones without unnecessary delays or complications.
