Change of Status for Eligible Dependents

If your dependents (spouse and children under 21) are already in the U.S. in another valid nonimmigrant status and wish to change to the appropriate ‘dependent’ classification (J-2, or  F-2), please follow these steps:

  1. Schedule an appointment with your ISSO advisor to discuss your situation.
  2. Complete Request for Dependent DS-2019 or I-20  for each dependent
  3. Prepare the following items in advance of your appointment:
    • USCIS Form I-539
    • Personal Check or Money Order payable to “Department of Homeland Security” for the I-539 fee
    • Personal Letter to the USCIS – Please have your spouse write a short letter explaining the circumstances and reasons for requesting the change to a dependent. If only your children are changing status, you may write a letter for them. Email a copy to the ISSO advisor who is meeting with you so it can be reviewed before your appointment.
    • Marriage Certificate (if applicable) – Must include an official translation if not already in English.
    • Birth Certificate for each minor child (if applicable) – Must include an official translation if not already in English.
    • Financial Documents – Bring all original financial documentation that you provided to request the I-20 or DS-2019 for each of your dependents if the originals are not already in your file at the ISSO.
    • Proof of Your Current Status – In order to obtain status for your dependent, the application needs to prove YOUR status as a student. Students should obtain a transcript of all course work completed and certification of your full-time enrollment for the current semester (or for the next semester if currently between semesters of study) from the University Registrar.
      Scholars should provide copies of appointment letters that describe your affiliation with the University and outline your appointment dates
    • Your current and previous DS-2019 or I-20
    • Passport data page and I-94 arrival record for you and each of your dependents.

Additional documents may be requested during your appointment. Mailing instructions for the USCIS application will be provided.

Processing:
Applications can take several months. Dependents may stay in the U.S. while pending but leaving the U.S. before approval voids the application. Contact your ISSO advisor immediately if dependents must leave before approval.