Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Or refine your search by selecting a city:
Refine your search by selecting a city.
A Dependent Visa is a type of visa issued by the United States government that allows dependents, such as spouses and children, of certain visa holders (like H-1B, L-1, F-1, and others) to live in the United States while the primary visa holder works or studies. In Virginia, as in the rest of the United States, federal immigration law governs the requirements, eligibility, and processes for dependent visas. Virginia is home to many international residents and businesses, so questions about Dependent Visas are common. Dependents may include minor children and spouses, and each visa category has specific rules regarding who qualifies as a dependent and the rights they may have, including access to schooling, work authorization, and travel.
Applying for a Dependent Visa can be complex. Many people seek legal advice for several reasons, including:
Having professional guidance can help ensure compliance with immigration law, protect your family's status, and avoid unnecessary complications.
While Dependent Visa law is primarily governed by federal immigration statutes and regulations, residents of Virginia must also be aware of local procedures and services that may affect them. Virginia does not set visa policy, but state and local requirements can play a role in areas such as:
It is important to stay up to date on both federal and state requirements to ensure you and your dependents can legally live, study, and travel within Virginia.
A Dependent Visa allows family members of a primary visa holder (such as H-1B, L-1, F-1) to accompany or join them in the United States. Generally, spouses and unmarried children under 21 are eligible as dependents.
Work eligibility for dependents varies. For example, H-4 spouses of certain H-1B workers may qualify for work authorization with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), while F-2 and H-4 children generally cannot work.
Yes. Children on dependent visas can usually attend public K-12 schools in Virginia. Eligibility for in-state tuition at public colleges or universities requires additional criteria.
Dependent status is typically tied to the status of the primary visa holder. If the primary visa holder’s status expires or is terminated, dependent status also ends.
Applications are generally filed at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad or as part of a change of status process within the U.S. This includes submitting forms like DS-160 or I-539, depending on the situation.
Once a dependent child turns 21, they generally age out of dependent status. It is important to plan ahead to switch to a student or another eligible visa before this occurs.
Yes, dependents may travel using their own dependent visa. However, they must ensure that their visa and status remain valid, and may need additional documentation when re-entering the U.S.
Yes. U.S. immigration law recognizes same-sex spouses equally for dependent visa purposes.
Though not always required by federal immigration rules, health insurance is highly recommended. Some visa categories and schools may require proof of adequate coverage.
If your application faces delays or denial, seek legal counsel to understand reapplication, appeal, or other options. Attorneys can help address requests for evidence or correct errors in filings.
If you need more information or assistance regarding Dependent Visas in Virginia, the following resources are valuable:
If you require legal help regarding a Dependent Visa in Virginia, consider the following actions:
Taking prompt and informed action can help protect your family's legal status and ensure a smoother transition while living in Virginia.
