Spouses & Children

The spouses and children of F-1 and J-1 students are often referred to as "dependents." Dependents are defined as a spouse or an unmarried minor child (under 21 years of age) of an F-1 or J-1 student.

General Information

• Dependents may enter the US with or after the F-1 or J-1, but never before
• Dependents must have a Form I-20 (F-2) or DS-2019 (J-2) every time they re-enter the US
• Dependents may not remain in the US after the F-1 or J-1 student is absent from the US unless the absence is temporary (5 months or less)
• Dependents maintain their legal Immigration status by the F-1 or J-1 maintaining his/her status; therefore, if the F-1 or J-1 is out of status, so is the F-2 or J-2.

In addition:

• F-2s may not be employed
• J-2s may be employed if they have special permission from Immigration
• F-2s may not be admitted as a full-time degree seeking student
• J-2s may be admitted as a full-time degree seeking student

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I add a dependent? For each dependent you wish to add to your documents, you must submit a document request with the following information:

1. Biographical information: name, relationship, date of birth, city of birth, country of birth. This information should match the dependent's passport.
2. Financial information: You must show proof of finances for yourself and each dependent that you wish to add to your document. Refer to MU's Estimated Expenses for more information on the amount of money you will be required to prove.

What if my child is born in the US? You must decide whether the baby will have a US passport or a passport from your home country. We encourage you to research your citizenship options and make a decision based on your particular situation and plans. If the baby will have a US passport, then you should apply for a US passport. If the baby will have a passport from your home country, contact the nearest embassy or consulate for instructions on how to register the baby and receive a passport. Also, if the baby will have a non-US passport, then the baby should also have a F-2 or J-2 document. To receive a F-2 or J-2 document, please follow the above instructions for adding a dependent.

How long will it take to get the I-20 or DS-2019 for my dependent? After you submit a document request and financial documentation, it will take approximately 10 working days to prepare the I-20 or DS-2019.

How do dependents get visas to enter the US? Your dependents should check with the nearest US embassy or consulate to find out how to apply for a dependent visa. You may be required to show marriage and/or birth certificates. They will need an I-20 or DS-2019 to get a dependent visa.

What should we do when my dependents arrive in the US? You should bring copies of their passport information page, visa page and I-94 (front and back) to keep in your file at the International Center.

Will my dependent be able to work? Dependents with F-2 visas are not permitted by Immigration to work. There are no exceptions to this Immigration regulation. Dependents with J-2 visas are allowed to work after they receive work permission from Immigration. J-2s must apply for this permission, which usually takes 4-6 months to receive.

How do I get health insurance for my dependents? F-2s are not required to have health insurance; however, ISSS very strongly recommends that they have insurance. J-2s must have health insurance. Neither F-2s nor J-2s are automatically enrolled in MU's student health insurance program. F-1 and J-1 students must fill out an application form and pay separately for dependent coverage. If you enroll by the deadline, dependent coverage can be billed through the Cashiers Office. Students may pick up applications for dependent coverage at the Cashiers Office (15 Jesse Hall). For more information about student health insurance, contact the Student Health Center at (573)882-9107.

What if my child turns 21? When your child turns 21, he/she will be required to apply for a change of status and/or leave the US. ISSS recommends that the dependent take action before his/her birthday.

What if my spouse and I divorce? The F-2 or J-2 spouse will be required to apply for a change of status and/or leave the US. ISSS recommends that the dependent take action before the divorce is finalized.