Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
A Dependent Visa is a type of visa that allows spouses, children, or other qualifying family members of a primary visa holder to join or accompany them during their stay in the United States. In Houston, which is one of the largest cities in Texas, many families are impacted by U.S. immigration laws regarding Dependent Visas. Common Dependent Visa types include H-4 (dependents of H-1B visa holders), F-2 (dependents of F-1 student visa holders), L-2 (dependents of L-1 intra-company transferees), and other similar classifications. The process to obtain a Dependent Visa involves specific documentation, proof of relationship, and often coordination with the primary visa holder’s status and application.
Applying for a Dependent Visa can be a complex process with several legal requirements. People in Houston may seek the assistance of an immigration lawyer for various reasons, such as:
While Dependent Visas are governed primarily by federal U.S. immigration law, certain local considerations apply in Houston. The city is serviced by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) field offices, where interviews and certain processes may take place. Texas, including Houston, has a substantial immigrant population, which can affect processing times and the availability of community resources for new arrivals. Applicants in Houston should be aware that:
A Dependent Visa allows the spouse and unmarried children under 21 of certain non-immigrant visa holders to accompany or join them in the United States. Qualification depends on the primary visa holder’s status and the family relationship to the applicant.
Usually, the spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old of the primary visa holder are eligible. In some cases, same-sex spouses and adopted children qualify as well.
Work authorization for dependents depends on the visa type. For example, certain H-4 and L-2 dependents may qualify for Employment Authorization Documents, while others, like F-2 dependents, typically cannot work.
Required documents often include valid passports, marriage certificate, birth certificates for children, visa application forms, proof of the principal applicant’s visa status, financial support evidence, and recent photographs.
Processing times can vary widely depending on visa type, demand, and USCIS workload. It can take from a few weeks to several months. USCIS provides estimated timelines for each visa category.
If the principal visa holder’s status is revoked or expires, dependents typically lose their legal status too. Immediate legal advice is crucial in such cases to explore available options.
Most dependents on H or L visas can attend primary and secondary school. F-2 dependents can attend school at the K-12 level, but have restrictions on enrolling in post-secondary (college) programs.
Turning 21 is considered “aging out.” Once a child turns 21, they typically lose their dependent status and must apply for a new visa category if they want to remain in the United States.
Interviews are often required, especially when applying from outside the United States at a consulate. Some in-person biometric appointments or interviews may also occur domestically.
Yes, in many cases, dependents can apply to change their visa status, such as from H-4 to F-1 for students, if eligibility requirements are met. The process requires a separate application and supporting documents.
Several resources are available for those seeking information or support regarding Dependent Visas in Houston:
If you or your family are seeking to apply for or address issues related to a Dependent Visa in Houston, consider the following steps:
