The steps you are required to take to apply for a derivative visa and the forms you are required to complete are the same as the principal visa applicant.  We recommend that you apply for together, otherwise you will be required to furnish a copy of the principal applicant’s visa.

F-2, M-2 and J-2 Visa Applicants

If you are applying for a derivative student (F-2 or M-2) or exchange visitor (J-2) visa, you are required to furnish individual forms I-20A-B/M-N or DS-2019.  You are not required to pay a SEVIS fee.

Common-Law Spouses and Partners

As your application is based on your relationship to your partner, you are required to furnish evidence of the relationship, for example, a copy of the joint mortgage, rental agreement, bank account etc. We recommend that you apply for the visa at the same time as your partner; if not, you will be required to furnish a copy of the visa endorsed in your partner’s passport in addition to the documents listed above. Please follow this link for further information.

Children under the age of 14

In general, children under the age of 14 are not required to appear in person for an interview.  If  the parent is applying for a visa, he or she may bring the child’s completed visa application to his or her visa interview.