U.S. visa guide
Dependent visas allow spouses and unmarried children under 21 to accompany or join a primary U.S. visa holder. The dependent visa class matches the primary's class: F-2 for F-1 dependents, H-4 for H-1B, L-2 for L-1, J-2 for J-1. Some dependent classes (H-4 with EAD, L-2, J-2) can apply for work authorisation; others (F-2) cannot work or study full-time.
Typical validity
Tied to the primary's visa validity
Max stay per visit
Tied to primary's status
Visa fee
USD 185
Indian H-4 dependents form a major segment. H-4 EAD is currently available only to spouses of H-1B holders whose I-140 is approved or who are in the 7th year extension period. L-2 spouses can work without EAD as of 2022 rule changes. F-2 spouses cannot work and cannot study full-time. All dependent classes were also affected by the September 2025 interview-waiver removal — H-4, L-2, F-2, J-2 all require in-person interview now.
Practise the F-2 / H-4 / L-2 / J-2 interview
Walk through likely F-2 / H-4 / L-2 / J-2 questions in a realistic mock interview, with structured feedback after each answer. Free to start, no card required.
Source. U.S. State Department: Official F-2 / H-4 / L-2 / J-2 information. This guide is informational, not legal advice. The consular officer makes the final eligibility determination at the interview. visainterview.in is not affiliated with the U.S. Government.
visainterview.in is an independent preparation platform. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, or any agency of the U.S. Government. Practice sessions are provided for preparation purposes only and do not guarantee a visa outcome.
© 2026 visainterview.in.All rights reserved.Updated regularly.
Early beta. Iterating daily - send thoughts: hello@visainterview.in