M-2 Visa
An M-2 visa is a type of U.S. visa granted to the spouse or unmarried children under 21 years of age of an M-1 visa holder.The M-1 visa is for students enrolled in non-academic programs such as vocational or technical schools.
Key points about M-2 visas
- Dependent Status: M-2 visa holders are dependents of M-1 visa holders.
- Limited Work Authorization: M-2 visa holders generally cannot work in the U.S.
- Study Limitations: M-2 spouses cannot engage in full-time study. M-2 children can attend elementary or secondary school but cannot engage in full-time study at a college or university.
- Visa Duration: The M-2 visa is tied to the validity of the primary M-1 visa holder’s status.
To apply for an M-2 visa, you typically need
- Form I-20: Issued by the designated school official (DSO) for the M-1 visa holder.
- Proof of Relationship: Documents like marriage certificates or birth certificates to prove your relationship to the M-1 visa holder.
- Financial Documents: Evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself and your dependents.
- Passport: A valid passport.
- Visa Application Fee: A fee is required to process your visa application.
Frequently Asked Questions
An M-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa for the spouse or unmarried children under 21 years of age of an M-1 visa holder.
Only spouses and unmarried children under 21 of M-1 visa holders are eligible for M-2 visas.
Generally, M-2 visa holders cannot work in the U.S.
M-2 spouses cannot engage in full-time study. M-2 children can attend elementary or secondary school but cannot engage in full-time study at a college or university.
The duration of an M-2 visa is tied to the validity of the primary M-1 visa holder's status.