What is an F-2 visa?

An F-2 visa is a kind of non-immigrant visa issued to family members of an F-1 student visa holder. It allows the family members to accompany the student as they study in the United States. In Virginia, family members who qualify for F-2 visas typically include a spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21. F-2 visa holders can stay in the United States as long as the student visa holder is enrolled in a full-time course of study. During their stay, they can attend school, but must adhere to certain restrictions, including not working for pay. However, they are allowed to take part in volunteer activities, travel within the country, and participate in educational activities such as studying for a degree or taking classes for no credit. If a family member on an F-2 visa would like to find paid employment, they are eligible to apply for a change of status. This must be done before the expiration of their visa. Meanwhile, F-2 visa holders are subject to the same laws and regulations as all other non-immigrant visa holders in Virginia. They must also abide by all state and federal laws regarding immigration. If a violation is committed, the visa holder could face prosecution, deportation or other serious penalties.

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Un visado F-2 es un visado de no inmigrante para aquellos estudiantes que asistan a un programa de estudios académicos en los Estados Unidos. El F-2 le permite a un estudiante asistir a la escuela o universidad en Virginia siempre que cumpla con los requisitos. Para solicitar un visado F-2, el estudiante debe estar acompañado de un estudiante de tiempo completo con un visado F-1 o estar casado con un ciudadano estadounidense, quien luego es el patrocinador. Este visado también permite a los familiares directos del estudiante de tiempo completo tener la misma permanencia. Estos incluyen el cónyuge, hijos menores de edad e hijastros. Un estudiante con un visado F-2 está autorizado para trabajar a tiempo parcial en un trabajo en la comunidad, pero no puede obtener un visado de trabajo para un empleo remunerado en los Estados Unidos. En Virginia, un estudiante con un visado F-2 también puede tener acceso a una licencia profesional de manejo de vehículos automotores.

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