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 New York, as in all states, the issuance of visas falls under federal jurisdiction, not state law. The U.S. Department of State oversees visa policies, including those for dependents. The J-2 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa available to the spouses and unmarried minor children under the age of 21 of J-1 Visa holders, who are admitted to the United States for educational and cultural exchange programs. The J-2 Visa allows dependents to accompany or join the J-1 Visa holder in the U.S. and, in some cases, obtain work authorization. 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.), not all visa categories provide this option. The availability of a dependent visa depends on the primary visa type and is governed by federal immigration regulations. It's important for individuals to consult with an attorney or the U.S. Department of State to understand the specific eligibility and application requirements for dependent visas.