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 Nebraska, as in all states of the United States, the issuance of visas, including those for dependents, is governed by federal law and regulations, not state statutes. The J-2 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa available to the spouses and dependents (unmarried minor children) of J-1 exchange visitors. This visa allows the dependents to accompany or join the J-1 holder in the U.S. for the duration of the J-1 holder's program. It is important to note that while many nonimmigrant visa categories offer corresponding dependent visas (such as F-2 for F-1 student visa holders, H-4 for H-1B work visa holders, etc.), some visa categories do not provide for dependent visas. The process for obtaining a J-2 Visa or any dependent visa involves an application to a U.S. embassy or consulate, and the requirements and eligibility are determined by U.S. immigration law. An attorney specializing in immigration law can provide specific guidance on the application process and the rights and restrictions associated with dependent visas.