Do my spouse and children need to pay the SEVIS fee for F-2 visas, and what documents do they need?
F-2 dependents do not pay the I-901 SEVIS fee, which applies to the primary F-1 student. Each dependent completes a separate DS-160, pays the visa fee and receives an individual Form I-20 from the school's Designated School Official. Proof of relationship and financial support for dependents may also be required.
No, your spouse and children as F-2 dependents do not pay the I-901 SEVIS fee. Each of them still needs a separate visa application with their own DS-160, an individual I-20 and supporting documents.
Requirements for F-2 Dependents
| Requirement | What it involves |
|---|---|
| SEVIS fee | Not payable by F-2 dependents |
| Separate application | Own DS-160 and the applicable visa application fee for each dependent |
| Individual I-20 | Issued by the school's Designated School Official, with individual SEVIS details |
| Proof of relationship | Marriage certificate for a spouse or birth certificate for a child may be required |
| Financial proof | Show enough funds for dependents as well as yourself |
Planning Funds and Appointments
The amount of financial proof for dependents can vary by institution, because universities often estimate additional living expenses for each spouse or child. Each dependent should also follow the visa and appointment process and keep their own application records organised.
My Advice
Talk to your university's international office early about the extra funds dependents require and the form of I-20 requests. Verify the latest dependent-specific instructions before booking appointments so the whole family is prepared at once.
Can your spouse come with you to the USA?
Which US courses still allow dependents, and what you will need to show.
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