R-2 Visa, Spouse & Children of R-1 Visa Holder

This non-immigrant visa is available to spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 (immediate family members) of holders of a "R" category temporary visas (R-1) to lawfully come to and stay in the U.S. during the duration of their working spouse's "R" visa. It is also available for adopted children. R-2 visa holders cannot get Social Security numbers or work. But they can attend school and college, hold a driver's license, open bank accounts and get taxpayer identification numbers.

An R-2 visa holder may also be admitted in other categories which enable them to work and obtain social security numbers, if they can so qualify on their own individual merit.

To apply for their R-2 visa each applicant, will complete the USCIS Form DS-160, needs a passport from their country of origin, valid for at least six months beyond the permitted stay of their working spouse or parent. Spouses will need to provide Marriage Certificates and all applicants will need to have valid (translated if necessary) Birth Certificates, provide accompanying documentation and pay all required filing fees. Interviews will be conducted at their local U.S. Embassy or Consulate.