The K-2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows the child of a fiancé(e) visa holder (K-1 visa) to enter the United States. Here are the basic eligibility criteria for a K-2 visa:
- Relationship to the K-1 Visa Holder:
- The applicant must be the unmarried child under 21 years of age of a K-1 visa holder.
- Filing for the K-2 Visa:
- The K-2 visa application is filed by the U.S. citizen petitioner on behalf of the child.
- Age Requirement:
- The child must be under 21 years of age at the time of filing the K-2 visa petition.
- Fiancé(e) Visa Status:
- The child is only eligible for a K-2 visa if the K-1 visa holder (parent) is still in the process of obtaining lawful permanent resident status (Green Card) or has already obtained it.
- Accompanying the Parent:
- The child must be accompanying or following to join the K-1 visa holder parent to the United States.
- Medical Examination and Vaccinations:
- Like other immigrant visa applicants, K-2 visa applicants are required to undergo a medical examination and receive the necessary vaccinations.
- Derivative Status:
- The K-2 visa is considered a derivative visa, and the child’s eligibility is dependent on the K-1 visa holder’s eligibility. Learn more about K-1 visa eligibility here.
What immigration forms must be submitted with a K-2 visa?
When applying for a K-2 visa, several immigration forms must be submitted as part of the application process. The specific forms required may vary, but generally, the following forms are commonly associated with the K-2 visa application:
- Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application:
- This form is completed online and is a mandatory part of the visa application process. It is used for all nonimmigrant visa categories, including the K-2 visa.
- Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e):
- The U.S. citizen petitioner must file this form with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to petition for a K-1 visa for the fiancé(e) and any eligible children, including those applying for K-2 visas.
- Form DS-156, Nonimmigrant Visa Application:
- This form is the standard visa application form used for nonimmigrant visa categories. It is typically submitted by the visa applicant at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Form DS-156K, Nonimmigrant Fiancé(e) Visa Application:
- This form is specifically for K visa applicants, including K-2 visa applicants. It collects information about the relationship with the K-1 visa holder parent.
- Form DS-157, Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application:
- This form may be required for certain visa applicants. It collects additional information about the visa applicant’s background.
- Form I-134, Affidavit of Support:
- The U.S. citizen petitioner must submit this form to demonstrate that they have the financial means to support the K-2 visa applicant(s) during their stay in the United States.
- Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record:
- K-2 visa applicants are required to undergo a medical examination by an approved panel physician. The results are documented on this form.
When applying for a K-2 visa, several immigration forms must be submitted as part of the application process. The specific forms required may vary, but generally, the following forms are commonly associated with the K-2 visa application:
- Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application:
- This form is completed online and is a mandatory part of the visa application process. It is used for all nonimmigrant visa categories, including the K-2 visa.
- Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e):
- The U.S. citizen petitioner must file this form with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to petition for a K-1 visa for the fiancé(e) and any eligible children, including those applying for K-2 visas.
- Form DS-156, Nonimmigrant Visa Application:
- This form is the standard visa application form used for nonimmigrant visa categories. It is typically submitted by the visa applicant at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Form DS-156K, Nonimmigrant Fiancé(e) Visa Application:
- This form is specifically for K visa applicants, including K-2 visa applicants. It collects information about the relationship with the K-1 visa holder parent.
- Form DS-157, Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application:
- This form may be required for certain visa applicants. It collects additional information about the visa applicant’s background.
- Form I-134, Affidavit of Support:
- The U.S. citizen petitioner must submit this form to demonstrate that they have the financial means to support the K-2 visa applicant(s) during their stay in the United States.
- Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record:
- K-2 visa applicants are required to undergo a medical examination by an approved panel physician. The results are documented on this form.
It’s important to note that the list above is not exhaustive, and additional forms or documentation may be required based on individual circumstances. Additionally, the forms and requirements may be subject to change, so it’s advisable to check the official website of the U.S. embassy or consulate where the application will be processed for the most up-to-date information. Seeking guidance from an immigration attorney is also recommended to ensure accurate and complete submission of the required documents.
