US Dependant Visa – Complete Guide for UK Residents

A U.S. Dependant Visa lets family members of a primary visa holder come to the United States. Dependants can live, study, and often work in the U.S., whether the main applicant is working or studying.

• Over 180,000 H-4 visas were issued worldwide in 2023, and many were given to UK citizens.
• L-2 spouses can now automatically work in the U.S. when they arrive.
• Children under 21 can study at public or private schools in the U.S.
• F-2 dependants can stay in the U.S. as long as the F-1 student has valid status.
• Many dependants can change to permanent residency with the main applicant.

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What is a US Dependant Visa?

A US Dependant Visa is a non-immigrant visa, letting spouses and unmarried kids under 21 of a main visa holder live in the US. Each type of dependant visa goes with the main applicant’s visa and has different rules about work and school.

Why Apply for a US Dependant Visa from the UK?

For UK citizens working, studying, or on assignment in the US long term, visas are available for their family members. These visas allow families to live together in America and access its lifestyle, healthcare, and educational opportunities. Family support becomes available as the main applicant may need help. These visas can provide a route to permanent residency in some situations.

Types of US Dependant Visas for UK Citizens

UK citizens have several US dependent visa options, depending on the primary applicant's visa.

• The H-4 visa is for dependents of US H-1B workers; spouses may get work authorization.
• L-2 visas are for spouses and children of L-1 transferees, and spouses can work.
• O-3 visas for dependents of O-1 visa holders allow study but not work.
• F-2 visas support dependents of F-1 students; spouses can study part-time, and children can attend school.

H-4 Visa – For Dependants of H-1B Visa Holders

The visa permits the immediate family members of H-1B workers to live in the U.S. Spouses can seek work permits if the H-1B holder has started the process of seeking permanent resident status. Children are eligible to enroll in schools in the U.S.

L-2 Visa – For Dependants of L-1 Visa Holders

L-2 visas enable eligible family members to reside in the United States. Spouses are granted immediate work authorization without needing extra Employment Authorization Documents. Children can attend school here without restrictions.

O-3 Visa – For Dependants of O-1 Visa Holders

Dependants of O-1 visa holders, specifically spouses and children with O-3 visas, are permitted to reside in the United States with the principal visa holder. O-3 visa holders are not authorized to work, but they can enroll in academic programs on either a full-time or part-time basis.

F-2 Visa – For Dependants of F-1 Student Visa Holders

Individuals holding F-1 visas or US Student Visa may have their spouse and children come to the country as F-2 Dependants. While in this status, spouses are permitted to enrol in part-time studies, and children are eligible to attend school. It is important to note that F-2 status does not grant work authorization.

Benefits of a US Dependant Visa

The benefits of a US Dependant Visa are given below.

• Live in the U.S. legally with a spouse or parent.
• Gain entry to U.S. healthcare and education.
• Spouses can get work permits (H-4 with EAD, L-2 automatic eligibility).
• Children are able to go to U.S. public or private schools.
• Have the chance to apply for a US Green Card for permanent residency through family or a job.

Also Read…

What is UK ILR vs. US Green Card?

Eligibility Criteria for a US Dependant Visa

The eligibility criteria for US Dependant Visa are given below.

• Must be the legal spouse or an unmarried kid (under 21) of someone with a valid U.S. visa.
• You will need to show proof of your family connection, such as a marriage or birth certificate.
• The main visa holder's visa needs to be current and in use.
• Candidates applying should aim to stay for a limited time.
• You may need to provide money-related documents.

US Dependant Visa Requirements for UK Applicants

The documents required to apply for US Dependant Visa are given below.

• A valid passport.
• A completed DS-160 visa application form.
• A receipt for the visa fee payment.
• If applying as a spouse or child, a marriage certificate or birth certificate, respectively.
• A copy of the main applicant's visa and status documents.
• The visa appointment confirmation.
• Recent passport photos.
• Proof of financial support.
• Any medical or police clearance documents, if required.

US Dependant Visa Fees from the UK

Detailed information about the fees for US Dependant Visa is given in the table below.

Dependant Visa Type	Application Fee (USD)
H-4 Visa	$205
L-2 Visa	$205
O-3 Visa	$205
F-2 Visa	$205
All Dependant Visas	NA

US Dependant Visa Processing Time from the UK

Detailed information about the processing times for US Dependant Visa is given below.

Dependant Visa Type	Estimated Processing Time
H-4 Visa	3 to 6 months
L-2 Visa	2 to 4 weeks
O-3 Visa	2 to 3 weeks
F-2 Visa	3 to 5 weeks

How to Apply for a US Dependant Visa from the UK?

The process to apply for US Dependant Visa is given below.

Step 1: Gather documents to prove your relationship to the main visa holder.
Step 2: Fill out the DS-160 form.
Step 3: Pay the visa application fee.
Step 4: Get your US Dependant Visa.
Step 5: Travel to the US with the main applicant.

Can Dependants Work or Study in the USA?

• H-4 Spouses: They are allowed to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) once the Green Card process has started. Their children are eligible to enroll in academic programs.
• L-2 Spouses: They are automatically authorized to work, and their children are permitted to attend school.
• O-3 Dependants: They are not allowed to work but can pursue academic studies.
• F-2 Dependants: Spouses are not permitted to work, but they may study part-time. Children can enrol in full-time academic programs.

Can Dependants Apply for a Green Card?

Yes, eligible dependants can apply for a US Green Card. Dependants can seek permanent residency either with the main applicant or on their own through family or employment sponsorship. Many H-4 and L-2 visa holders become Green Card holders as part of a family when the main applicant applies under EB-1, EB-2, or EB-3 categories.

Tips for a Successful US Dependant Visa Application

• Provide certified documents that prove your relationship.
• Make sure all forms and information match what the primary applicant provides.
• Answer interview questions honestly and keep your answers short.
• Have financial records ready to prove that you can support your Dependants.
• Keep track of the main visa holder's status so your Dependants' stay doesn't get interrupted.

How Can Y-Axis Help You?

Y-Axis assists with US Dependant visa applications from start to finish, helping to ensure a smooth, compliant, and stress-free process for your family.

Our services include:

• Checking if you qualify and helping with paperwork.
• Filling out the DS-160 form and scheduling your embassy appointment.
• Reviewing your relationship and money-related documents.
• Preparing you for the visa interview.

Guiding you after you arrive and helping maintain your status.