The L2 visa is a type of U.S. non-immigrant visa that allows the family members of L1 visa holders, such as spouses and unmarried children under 21, to join them in the United States. This visa is designed to keep families together while the L1 visa holder works in the U.S. Understanding what is L2 visa and how it functions can help families plan their stay in the U.S. more effectively.
What Does an L2 Visa Mean?
An L2 visa is granted to the dependents of individuals who hold an L1 visa, which is for employees transferring to the U.S. from a foreign company with a branch, affiliate, or subsidiary in the country. The L2 visa allows the spouse and unmarried children under 21 years old of the L1 visa holder to join them in the U.S. and remain together as a family.
This visa enables dependents to live in the U.S. for the duration of the L1 visa holder’s assignment. A significant benefit of the L2 visa is that it permits the spouse of the L1 visa holder to apply for work authorisation, allowing them to seek employment in the U.S. without restrictions. Additionally, L2 visa holders can enrol in educational programs at any level, from elementary school to college, without needing a separate student visa. This flexibility makes the L2 visa an attractive option for families, as it facilitates their stay together and supports both personal and professional development while living in the U.S.
L2 Visa Requirements
The L2 Visa requirements are as follows:
- Relationship Requirement:
The L2 visa is specifically designed for the dependent family members of L1 visa holders.
To qualify, the applicant must either be:
- The legal spouse of the L1 visa holder, or
- An unmarried child under the age of 21.
- Proof of Relationship:
Applicants must provide legal documentation to prove their relationship with the L1 visa holder.
- For spouses, this typically includes a valid marriage certificate.
- For children, a birth certificate showing the L1 visa holder as a parent is required.
- L1 Visa Holder’s Employment:
- The L1 visa holder must be currently employed by the company that sponsored their L1 visa.
- This employment must be ongoing, as the L2 visa is directly tied to the L1 visa holder’s status.
- The sponsoring company must be recognised as a qualifying organisation under U.S. immigration law.
These criteria ensure that only legitimate dependents of L1 visa holders are eligible for the L2 visa, maintaining the integrity of the visa process.
Benefits of the L2 Visa
- Work Authorization: Spouses of L1 visa holders can apply for work authorisation (EAD) and work in the U.S. without any specific restrictions on the type of employment or employer.
- Education: L2 visa holders, including children, can enrol in educational institutions ranging from elementary school to higher education without needing a separate student visa. Spouses on an L2 visa can also take advantage of this benefit by enrolling in colleges or universities, whether for personal development or to further their career prospects.
- Travel: L2 visa holders can travel within and outside of the U.S. as long as their visa remains valid. This means they can visit their home country or travel internationally for vacations or family emergencies without the hassle of reapplying for a visa each time.
- Dependent Status: L2 visa holders enjoy dependent status, meaning they can stay in the U.S. as long as the L1 visa holder maintains their status. This dependent status also allows L2 visa holders to enjoy most of the same benefits as the L1 visa holder including access to healthcare, education and social services in the U.S.
What Documents Are Required for the L2 Visa Application?
When applying for an L2 visa, you will need to provide several key documents:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.
- Visa Application Form (DS-160): Complete the DS-160 form online, which is the standard non-immigrant visa application form for the U.S.
- Photograph: Provide a recent passport-sized photograph that meets the U.S. visa photo requirements.
- Proof of your relationship with the L1 visa holder: For spouses, this means providing a valid marriage certificate. For children, a birth certificate is required to prove the parent-child relationship.
- Copy of the L1 Visa: Include a copy of the L1 visa held by the primary visa holder (your spouse or parent).
- Employment Proof: Provide documents that show the L1 visa holder is employed by a qualifying organisation in the U.S. This may include a letter of employment, pay stubs, or a contract from the L1 visa holder’s employer.
- Interview Appointment Confirmation: A copy of the confirmation page of your visa interview appointment.
- Proof of Finances: You may need to show that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself while in the U.S. This can include bank statements, financial affidavits, or documentation of the L1 visa holder's income.
- International Travel Insurance: This will demonstrate strength of character and responsibility. You can acquire travel insurance online to boost your application.
Ensure that all documents for L2 visa are accurate, complete, and up-to-date to avoid any delays in your visa approval.
L2 Visa Processing Time
The processing time for an L2 visa can vary depending on several factors, including the U.S. embassy or consulate where you apply and the completeness of your application. Typically, the process takes between 15 to 30 days after the visa interview. However, processing times can be longer during peak seasons, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
It is important to note that the accuracy and completeness of your application play a critical role in how quickly it is processed. If any required documents for the L2 visa are missing or if there are errors in your application, this can lead to delays. Ensuring that all your documents are in order before submitting your application can help avoid unnecessary processing time.
How Long Is an L2 Visa Valid?
The validity of an L2 visa is directly tied to the L1 visa holder's status. As long as the L1 visa holder maintains their status and their visa remains valid, the L2 visa holder can stay in the U.S. Typically, the L2 visa is issued for the same period as the L1 visa. If the L1 visa holder's status is extended, the L2 visa holder can also apply for an extension. Conversely, if the L1 visa holder loses their status or leaves the U.S. permanently, the L2 visa holder’s status will also end.
How to Apply for an L2 Visa?
Applying for an L2 visa involves several steps:
- Complete the DS-160 Form: Fill out the DS-160 form online and save the confirmation page. After completing the form, save and print the confirmation page, which you’ll need for your visa interview.
- Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the non-refundable visa application fee online or at a designated bank.
- Create a Profile on the U.S. Visa Information Website: Register on the U.S. Visa Information and Appointment Services website. This website will allow you to track your application status, book appointments and access other important information.
- Schedule a Visa Interview: Book an appointment for an interview at the U.S. embassy/consulate in your home country.
- Gather Required Documents: Collect all the necessary documents, including your passport, DS-160 confirmation, marriage/birth certificates and proof of the L1 visa holder's employment.
- Attend the Visa Interview: Go to your scheduled interview with all your documents. The consular officer will ask questions to verify your relationship with the L1 visa holder and assess your eligibility.
- Wait for Visa Processing: Post the interview, your visa application will be put through processing. If approved, your passport will be returned with the L2 visa stamped inside.
L2 Visa Fee
The L2 visa application fee is typically around $185. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid before you can schedule your visa interview. Additional fees, such as visa issuance or exchange fees, may apply depending on your nationality and the U.S. embassy or consulate where you apply.
Conclusion
The L2 visa is a valuable option for the families of L1 visa holders, allowing them to stay together in the U.S. and access opportunities for work, education, and travel. By understanding the requirements and carefully following the application process, you can successfully obtain an L2 visa and enjoy the benefits of living in the United States with your family.
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