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F-2 Dependent Requests

Find information about how to request an I-20 for an F-2 dependent, which may be a legally married spouse and/or unmarried minor children (under 21 years old). All other relatives who wish to visit the U.S. should apply for B-2 (tourism and visit) visa status or the Visa Waiver Program, if eligible.

Request Form I-20 from ISEO

Students currently in F-1 visa status who wish to add their F-2 dependent will need to obtain a Form I-20 from ISEO for each dependent.

Submit the "Dependent I-20/DS-2019 Request".

  • Upload a PDF copy of your bank statement(s) or financial support letter(s).
    • The funds need to cover estimated expenses for your tuition and fees, combined living expenses, and other expenses for both yourself and your F-2 dependent(s).
    • You must show funding to cover expenses for 12 months or the remainder of your study, whichever is less. Use the Funding Requirements page to determine the exact amount.
  • Upload a PDF copy of dependent’s biographical page from passport
  • Upload a PDF copy of marriage certificate (spouse dependent) or birth certificate (child dependent) with English translation.
  • A new I-20 will be issued within 5 business days.
  • A notification email will be sent to you when your document is ready.
  • Sign your dependent's new I-20 and give it to your dependent.

Apply for Visa or Change Status

Your F-2 dependent will need to do ONE of the following two actions:
  1. Apply for an F-2 visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence, and then enter the U.S. with the F-2 visa stamp in their passport.
    OR
  2. If your dependent is already in the U.S. in a different visa status, and prefers not to travel outside the U.S. to do the option 1 described above, they will need to file an I-539 Application To Change Status (COS) with USCIS while remaining in the U.S. Your dependent is required to maintain their current visa status while their COS is pending with USCIS.