Visas may be issued to the spouse, unmarried minor children, and sometimes the parents (if dependents) of a person with a corresponding visa type. For example, the J-2 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa issued by a consular official at a U.S. embassy or consulate for spouses and dependents of J-1 exchange visitors who accompany or later join the J-1 Visa holder in the United States.
Many classes of visas have their own dependent visa, but others do not.
In West Virginia, as in all states of the United States, the issuance of visas, including those for dependents such as spouses, unmarried minor children, and sometimes dependent parents, is governed by federal immigration law, not state law. The J-2 Visa is a type of nonimmigrant visa available for the dependents of J-1 exchange visitors. This visa allows the spouse and unmarried minor children of the J-1 Visa holder to enter and stay in the U.S. while the J-1 holder participates in an exchange program. The process for obtaining a J-2 Visa involves an application submitted to a U.S. embassy or consulate, typically in the applicant's home country. While many visa categories offer corresponding dependent visas, there are some that do not. It is important for individuals to consult with an immigration attorney or review the specific visa requirements outlined by the U.S. Department of State to understand the options and requirements for dependents accompanying a visa holder to the United States.