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MU
() It may be possible for your spouse or children to join you in the U.S. You will need a new document (I-20 or DS-2019) that includes information about your dependents, so please make this request before your appointment for visa application. If you are outside the U.S., you can e-mail your request to ISSS@missouri.edu. If you are already in Columbia, call 882-6007 to make an appointment with an advisor. How can my spouse and children join me in the U.S.? Your spouse and children under 18 years of age may apply for a dependent visa (F-2 or J-2). To do this, they will need a specially designated I-20 or DS-2019. How do I get the I-20 or DS-2019? You will need to show that you can support dependents financially while they are here. You will need to show finances for yourself and an additional $3,000 per dependent that you wish to have join you. Please note that this figure is an estimate. It may cost more, depending on the age of the dependents and your choice of lifestyle. You must also know the date of birth and country of birth for each dependent. How do I prove financial capability? You can submit a bank statement or documentation of an assistantship. You may want to check with a documents specialist (e-mail ISSS@missouri.edu) about what is appropriate for your situation. How long will it take to get the I-20 or DS-2019? When you submit a document request and financial documentation, it will take approximately 10 working days to prepare the I-20 or DS-2019. What do I do next? Sign the prepared documents and then send them to your dependents. What will my dependents do next? Your dependents should check with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to find out how to apply for a dependent visa. If approved, the I-20 or DS-2019 will then be used in applying for admission to the U.S. What should we do when my dependents arrive? You should bring copies of their passport information page and visa page to keep in your file at the International Center. The International Center may be able to help you find information you may be seeking about Mizzou and the community. Will my dependent be able to work? Dependents with J-2 visas may apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for work permission. Ask at the front desk for more information. Dependents with F-2 visas will not be able to work. There are no exceptions to this regulation. For more information about dependent visas, you can visit USCIS website at http://uscis.gov. |
