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 Alabama, as in all states of the United States, the issuance of visas, including those for dependents, is governed by federal immigration law, as immigration is a matter under federal jurisdiction. The J-2 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa available to the dependents of J-1 Visa holders, which includes spouses, unmarried children under the age of 21, and sometimes dependent parents. This visa allows them to accompany or join the J-1 Visa holder in the U.S. for the duration of their exchange program. It's important to note that while many nonimmigrant visa categories offer corresponding dependent visas, such as F-2 for dependents of F-1 students or H-4 for dependents of H-1B workers, not all visa categories provide this option. The availability of a dependent visa depends on the primary visa type and the specific regulations that apply to it. An attorney specializing in immigration law can provide guidance on the application process and requirements for obtaining a dependent visa.