Employment

Study

Most dependents (a spouse and/or child under the age of 21) who accompany F-1 students to the U.S. hold F-2 status. In this case, their status is entirely dependent on the status of the F-1 visa holder. If an F-1 individual extends his/her authorized stay or changes status in any way, the family members are included in the application. If the F-1 individual loses his/her status or leaves the country for more than a short period of time, the family members with F-2 status also will lose their status.

Employment
While in F-2 status, dependents (spouse and/or children) of F-1 students cannot work under any circumstances.

Study
The F-2 spouse may only be a non-degree student in a course that is recreational or avocational (see below). Study should not be full-time. The F-2 spouse who wishes to study full-time should consult the international student advisor at his/her school regarding plans and/or apply for a change of status to F-1.

"If a student engages in a study to pursue a hobby or if the study is that of an occasional, casual, or recreational nature, such study may be considered as avocational or recreational."

F-2 children may study full time in elementary or secondary school (kindergarten through 12th grade). F-2 children who have completed high school and are under 21 may only be part-time, non-degree students in a course that is recreational or avocational. F-2 children who wish to study full time beyond high school level must apply for a change of status to F-1.
 

 

Revised September 12, 2005 (MD)