M-2 visa

The M-2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows the dependent spouse and unmarried children (under 21 years of age) of M-1 vocational student visa holders or M-3 vocational student visa holders to enter the United States. It is a derivative visa, meaning it is dependent on the primary visa holder maintaining their M-1 or M-3 status.

Eligibility:

To be eligible for an M-2 visa, an applicant must:

• Be the spouse or unmarried child (under 21) of an M-1 or M-3 visa holder.
• Intend to accompany or follow to join the M-1 or M-3 visa holder in the United States.
• Have sufficient funds available to cover living expenses, or demonstrate that the M-1 or M-3 visa holder has sufficient funds to support the family.
• Maintain a residence abroad that they have no intention of abandoning.

Restrictions:

• M-2 visa holders are generally not permitted to work in the United States.
• M-2 children are allowed to attend school in the United States.
• The M-2 visa holder's status is dependent on the M-1 or M-3 visa holder maintaining their status. If the M-1 or M-3 visa holder's status is terminated, the M-2 visa holder's status is also terminated.

Application Process:

The application process for an M-2 visa generally involves:

• The M-1 or M-3 visa holder obtaining an I-20 form (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) from a SEVP-certified school.
• The M-2 applicant completing the DS-160 online nonimmigrant visa application form.
• Paying the visa application fee.
• Attending a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

The M-2 visa application should be submitted concurrently with or after the M-1 or M-3 visa application. Applicants must provide documentation to prove their relationship to the M-1 or M-3 visa holder, such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate.