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 Ohio, as in all other U.S. states, the issuance of visas is governed by federal law, not state statutes. The U.S. Department of State oversees visa policies, and dependent visas are available for certain visa categories. The J-2 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa for the dependents of J-1 exchange visitors. This visa allows the spouse and unmarried minor children under the age of 21 of a J-1 visa holder to enter and stay in the United States. The J-2 Visa holders may study, work (if they obtain an Employment Authorization Document), and accompany the J-1 visa holder during their stay. While many nonimmigrant visa categories offer corresponding dependent visas, such as F-2 for F-1 student visa holders and H-4 for H-1B work visa holders, not all visa categories provide this option. It's important for individuals to consult with an attorney or the U.S. Department of State to understand the specific regulations and eligibility criteria for dependent visas.