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 the state of Louisiana (LA), as in all other U.S. states, the issuance of visas is governed by federal immigration law, as immigration is a matter under federal jurisdiction. The J-2 Visa is a type of 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 United States. The J-2 Visa holders may study, work (if they receive work authorization), and travel in and out of the U.S. while the visa is valid. It's important to note that while many nonimmigrant visa categories offer corresponding visas for dependents, some do not. The specific eligibility and application requirements for dependent visas vary by visa category and are determined by federal regulations, not state law. Therefore, individuals in Louisiana seeking information on dependent visas should consult with an attorney who specializes in immigration law or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.