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 Utah, 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 dependents of J-1 exchange visitors. This allows them to accompany or join the J-1 Visa holder in the United States for the duration of the J-1 holder's 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 eligibility for dependent visas is determined by the specific visa category and the regulations set forth by the U.S. immigration law. Those interested in obtaining a dependent visa should consult with an attorney or the U.S. Department of State for guidance on their specific situation.