If you are planning to study in the United States, you may have heard of the F1 and F2 visas.
These are two types of nonimmigrant visas that are issued by the U.S. government to foreign students and their dependents.
But what are the differences between them and how do you know which one is right for you?
In this blog post, we will explain the main features, benefits, and requirements of each visa type and help you make an informed decision.
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What is an F1 visa?
An F1 visa is a non-immigrant student visa that is issued to individuals who wish to pursue academic studies or language training programs in the United States.
To qualify for an F1 visa, you must:
- Be accepted by a SEVP-approved school in the United States
- Have sufficient financial resources to cover your tuition and living expenses
- Have a residence abroad that you do not intend to abandon
- Intend to leave the United States after completing your studies
An F1 visa allows you to:
- Enroll in a full-time course of study at an accredited U.S. institution
- Work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during regular academic sessions and full-time during breaks
- Apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) to gain work experience related to your field of study for up to 12 months (or 24 months for STEM majors)
- Travel in and out of the United States as long as your visa and I-20 form are valid
- Bring your spouse and children under 21 years of age with you on an F2 visa
What is an F2 visa?
An F2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that is issued to the dependents (spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age) of an F1 visa holder.
To qualify for an F2 visa, you must:
- Be married to or be the child of an F1 visa holder
- Have sufficient financial resources to cover your living expenses
- Intend to leave the United States after your spouse or parent completes their studies
An F2 visa allows you to:
- Accompany your spouse or parent who is studying in the United States on an F1 visa
- Stay in the United States as long as your spouse or parent maintains their F1 status
- Travel in and out of the United States as long as your visa and I-20 form are valid
- Study part-time at an elementary or secondary school (K-12)
- Engage in recreational activities such as hobbies, sports, etc.
An F2 visa does not allow you to:
- Work in the United States
- Study full-time at a college or university
- Apply for a change of status to another nonimmigrant visa category
Which visa is right for you?
The answer depends on your personal situation and goals.
If you want to pursue a full-time academic program or language training in the United States, you should apply for an F1 visa.
If you want to accompany your spouse or parent who is studying in the United States, you should apply for an F2 visa.
However, keep in mind that an F2 visa has more restrictions than an F1 visa, especially regarding work and study opportunities.
Therefore, if you have your own academic or professional aspirations, you may want to consider applying for your own F1 visa instead of depending on your spouse or parent.
How to apply for an F1 or F2 visa?
The application process for both visas is similar and involves the following steps:
- Apply and get accepted by a SEVP-approved school in the United States
- Receive a Form I-20 from your school and pay the SEVIS I-901 fee
- Complete the online DS-160 form and pay the visa application fee
- Schedule and attend a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country
- Bring all the required documents to your interview, such as your passport, I-20 form, proof of financial support, academic transcripts, etc.
- Wait for the decision on your visa application
If your visa is approved, you will receive a visa stamp on your passport that indicates your visa type, validity period, and a number of entries.
You can enter the United States up to 30 days before the start date of your program as indicated on your I-20 form.
Conclusion
The F1 and F2 visas are two options for foreign students and their dependents who want to study or accompany someone who is studying in the United States.
Both visas have their own advantages and disadvantages, so you should carefully weigh them before applying.
To learn more about these visas and other immigration topics, visit below: