F-2 Dependent Status for Spouse and Children
Who is eligible for F-2 Status?
The spouse and unmarried minor children (under 21 years of age) of the F-1 student are eligible for F-2 dependent status.
How can I become an F-2 Dependent?
Each F-2 dependent must have his/her own Form I-20. This I-20 Form can be obtained from International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) by the F-1 status holder. Once the dependent has an I-20 Form, he/she must either:
- Apply for an F-2 visa stamp at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate overseas (except Canadian citizens). Gain F-2 status through entry to the United States by presenting the dependent I-20 Form, passport and F-2 visa stamp (accompanied by any supporting documents) at the U.S. Port of Entry.
- Apply for a Change of Status in the U.S. (please meet with an ISSS advisor at OIP for further details)
or
Initial F-1 Students
If a student is applying for his/her own initial I-20 and will be accompanied by dependent(s), he/she needs to be sure to include dependent information (and funding should be adequate) in the appropriate section of the I-20 application. The school that has admitted the student to Penn will provide him/her with this application.
Continuing F-1 Students
When requesting a dependent I-20 after the student is in the U.S. in F-1 status, he/she needs to submit the Request for Service: I-20 or DS-2019 for Dependents form with the appropriate financial funding information. This form is available online.
Employment while in F-2 Status
F-2 dependents are NOT eligible to work in the U.S.
Study while in F-2 Status
F-2 spouses are NOT allowed to pursue a course of study. F-2 spouses may take 1-2 recreational courses, but are NOT eligible to participate in courses leading toward a degree. However, F-2 children can participate in full-time elementary or secondary study (kindergarten through twelfth grade.)
Travel and Reentry in F-2 Status
F-2 dependents follow similar travel and reentry procedures as the F-1 status holder, but should carry copies of the F-1’s most current immigration documents if traveling separately.
Extension of Stay
The duration of the F-1 status holder's program is stated in item 3 of the I-20. If the F-1 is eligible and applies for an extension of stay, the dependent's period of stay will automatically be extended.
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