If you are currently in the U.S. as a dependent of an F-1 student and you want to transfer to another school or change your status to another visa category, you may be wondering what the F-2 visa transfer process is.
In this blog post, we will explain what an F-2 visa is, what are the requirements and options for transferring or changing your status, and what are the steps you need to follow.
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What is an F-2 visa?
An F-2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows the spouse or unmarried child under 21 years of age of an F-1 student to accompany them to the U.S.
An F-2 visa holder cannot work or study full-time in the U.S., but they can engage in part-time recreational or vocational studies.
An F-2 visa holder can also travel in and out of the U.S. or stay in the U.S. as long as the F-1 student maintains their status.
Requirements for transferring to another school as an F-2 visa holder
If you want to transfer to another school as an F-2 visa holder, you need to follow the same process as your F-1 spouse or parent. This means that you need to:
- Apply and get accepted by a SEVP-certified school
- Receive a new Form I-20 from the new school
- Notify your current school of your intention to transfer
- Complete the transfer process within 60 days of completing your current program or within 15 days of starting your new program, whichever is earlier
- Maintain your F-2 status throughout the transfer process
You do not need to apply for a new F-2 visa if your current one is still valid, but you will need to present your new Form I-20 and your old visa at the port of entry when you re-enter the U.S. after traveling abroad.
Options for changing your status from F-2 to another visa category
If you want to change your status from F-2 to another visa category, such as H-1B (specialty occupation worker) or F-1 (academic student), you have two options:
Option 1: Travel and re-entry
One way to change your status is to travel outside the U.S., apply for a new visa at a U.S. consulate, and re-enter the U.S. with your new visa and Form I-20 (if applicable).
This option may be faster and simpler than applying for a change of status within the U.S., but it also involves more risks, such as visa denials, travel restrictions, or entry issues.
Option 2: Change of status application
The other way to change your status is to submit a Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, to USCIS while remaining in the U.S.
This option allows you to avoid traveling and consular processing, but it may take several months for USCIS to process your application, and you may not be able to enroll in classes or start working until your change of status is approved.
What are the steps for applying for a change of status from F-2 to another visa category?
If you choose to apply for a change of status from F-2 to another visa category within the U.S., you need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Check your eligibility
Not all visa categories are eligible for a change of status from F-2.
For example, you cannot change from F-2 to B-1 (visitor for business) or B-2 (visitor for pleasure).
You also need to meet the specific requirements for your desired visa category, such as having a job offer from a qualified employer for H-1B or being accepted by a SEVP-certified school for F-1.
Step 2: Obtain the necessary documents
Depending on your desired visa category, you may need to obtain certain documents before applying for a change of status.
For example, if you want to change from F-2 to H-1B, you need to have your employer file a Form I-129, a Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, and a labor condition application (LCA) with USCIS on your behalf.
If you want to change from F-2 to F-1, you need to obtain a Form I-20 from your new school and pay the SEVIS fee.
Step 3: File Form I-539 with USCIS
You need to file Form I-539 with USCIS either online or by mail, along with the required fee and supporting documents, such as:
- A copy of your passport and current F-2 visa
- A copy of your Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record
- A copy of your marriage certificate or birth certificate to prove your relationship with the F-1 student
- A copy of the F-1 student's passport, visa, Form I-94, and Form I-20
- A copy of your new Form I-20 (if changing to F-1) or Form I-797, Notice of Action (if changing to H-1B)
- A statement explaining the reason for your change of status request
- Any other documents required for your specific visa category
Step 4: Wait for a decision from USCIS
After you file your Form I-539, you will receive a receipt notice from USCIS with a tracking number that you can use to check the status of your application online.
USCIS may also request additional evidence or invite you for an interview if needed.
The processing time for a change of status application may vary depending on the visa category and the USCIS service center, but it may take several months.
You should not enroll in classes or start working until your change of status is approved.
Step 5: Receive your new status and visa
If your change of status application is approved, you will receive an approval notice from USCIS with your new status and the validity period.
You may also receive a new Form I-94 with your new status and expiration date.
However, you will not receive a new visa stamp on your passport.
If you travel outside the U.S., you will need to apply for a new visa at a U.S. consulate before returning to the U.S.
Conclusion
Changing or transferring your F-2 visa may seem complicated, but it is possible if you follow the rules and procedures carefully.
You should consult with an immigration attorney or a DSO if you have any questions or concerns about your F-2 visa transfer process.