Non-Immigrant Visas

Visas: Dependents or Derivatives

To obtain a visa to join a spouse or parent for a temporary stay in the United States on a derivative visa, the applicant must be able to demonstrate that he or she is the spouse or minor child of an F-1 academic student, J-1 cultural exchange visitor, M-1 vocational student, H-1B temporary worker or L-1 intracompany transfer visa holder who wishes to enter the United States to accompany or join the principal visa holder. Evidence of eligibility for these visas will include evidence of the principal applicant’s status as well as evidence of the relationship. All applicants who will follow to join the principal visa holder in the US must bring a copy of the principal’s visa as well as any petitions relevant to the application.

Other evidence for these types of visas could include, but is not limited to:

• Copy of the principal applicant’s passport and all documents relating to his or her visa application
• Original marriage certificate
• Original birth certificate
• Wedding or baby photos
• Official documents attesting to the relationship, such as joint bank accounts, school certificates, etc.  

Note: By signing the visa application form you are certifying that all the information contained in it is true and correct. If you misrepresent any facts, you could be barred from entering the United States. Please double-check that all your answers are accurate and that every question is answered completely. Please inquire with the staff in the Consular Section if you do not understand any of the questions on the application form.