The supporting document for dependent L-2 visa applications primarily includes a valid L-1 visa holder's approval notice, such as the Form I-797, to verify the principal applicant's status. Proof of relationship, typically a marriage certificate for spouses or birth certificates for children, must be submitted to establish eligibility as a dependent. Applicants should also provide evidence of financial support and identity, including passports and recent photographs.
Overview of L-2 Visa for Dependents
The L-2 visa allows dependents, including spouses and unmarried children under 21, of L-1 visa holders to enter and reside in the United States. This visa permits dependents to study and, in some cases, work while accompanying the primary L-1 visa holder. Supporting documents for L-2 visa applications generally include proof of the primary L-1 visa holder's status and evidence of the family relationship, such as marriage or birth certificates.
Essential Supporting Documents for L-2 Visa Application
The supporting document for dependent L-2 visa applications primarily includes proof of the principal L-1 visa holder's status. Essential documents verify the relationship and eligibility of the dependents applying for the visa.
- Valid Passport - Each applicant must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
- Copy of Principal L-1 Visa Holder's Approval Notice - A copy of Form I-797 or the L-1 visa approval notice is required to establish eligibility.
- Proof of Relationship - Marriage certificate for spouses and birth certificates for children must be submitted to confirm dependent status.
Your L-2 visa application is incomplete without these critical documents confirming both identity and relationship.
Proof of Relationship to Primary L-1 Visa Holder
The supporting document for dependent L-2 visa applications primarily includes proof of relationship to the primary L-1 visa holder. This document is essential to establish the dependent's eligibility for the L-2 visa category.
Commonly accepted proof includes marriage certificates for spouses and birth certificates for children. Your application must include these documents to verify the dependent's link to the L-1 visa holder and ensure a smooth visa process.
Valid Passport and Identity Documentation
The supporting document for a dependent L-2 visa application must include a valid passport for each applicant. Each passport should have a minimum validity period of six months beyond the intended stay in the United States. Proper identity documentation is essential to establish the relationship to the primary L-1 visa holder and confirm the dependent's eligibility.
Required Forms for L-2 Visa Submission
The supporting document for dependent L-2 visa applications is essential to confirm the relationship and eligibility of the applicant. These documents verify the connection to the principal L-1 visa holder and fulfill U.S. immigration requirements.
- Form DS-160 - This is the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form required for all L-2 visa applicants.
- Marriage Certificate - Legal proof of marriage to the L-1 visa holder must be submitted to establish spousal eligibility.
- Form I-797 Approval Notice - The principal L-1 visa holder's approved petition notice must be included to confirm status.
Financial Support Evidence for L-2 Applicants
What is required as financial support evidence for L-2 visa applicants? Financial support evidence demonstrates the L-1 visa holder's ability to financially support dependents without relying on public funds. Common documents include recent pay stubs, employment verification letters, and tax returns to establish stable income.
Photographs and Image Specifications
| Document Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Photographs for L-2 Visa Application | Applicants must provide recent color photographs meeting U.S. visa photo requirements. |
| Photo Size | 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) square. |
| Background Color | Plain white or off-white background. |
| Head Position | Full face, directly facing the camera, with head centered. |
| Facial Expression | Neutral expression with both eyes open. |
| Clothing | Normal street attire without uniforms or head coverings unless for religious purposes. |
| Photo Quality | High resolution, clear, without shadows or reflections. |
| Recentness | Photographs must be taken within the last six months to reflect current appearance. |
| Number of Photos | Two identical photographs required for each L-2 visa application. |
Translation and Certification of Foreign Documents
Supporting documents for dependent L-2 visa applications often include foreign documents such as marriage certificates and birth certificates. These documents must be translated into English if they are in another language.
Translations must be certified to verify accuracy and completeness by a qualified translator or translation service. The certification typically includes a signed statement affirming that the translation is true and accurate to the best of the translator's knowledge.
Guidelines for Submission: Online and In-person Processes
The supporting document for dependent L-2 visa applications primarily includes the primary L-1 visa holder's approval notice and proof of relationship. Submission methods vary between online and in-person, each with specific guidelines to follow.
- Online Submission - Upload clear, scanned copies of all required documents through the official U.S. visa application portal.
- In-person Submission - Present original documents and valid photocopies during the scheduled visa interview at the consulate or embassy.
- Document Verification - Ensure all documents are consistent and meet the embassy's authentication standards to avoid processing delays.
What Is the Supporting Document for Dependent L-2 Visa Applications? Infographic
