Ohio State is in the process of revising websites and program materials to accurately reflect compliance with the law. While this work occurs, language referencing protected class status or other activities prohibited by Ohio Senate Bill 1 may still appear in some places. However, all programs and activities are being administered in compliance with federal and state law.

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Change of Status: F-1 Student to F-2 Dependent

To change from a student to a dependent status, your F-1 spouse must be in the United States in valid F-1 status at the time you are requesting this change.

Your request for change of status to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) should consist of the following:

  • Completed Form I-539 with the processing fee. Checks and money orders should be made payable to the Department of Homeland Security. View the most current fee information.
  • A copy of your marriage certificate – English translation required
  • A copy of your spouse's current Form I-94 (both sides or printed electronic I-94 card and copy of admission stamp)
  • Copy of the front and back of the Form I-94 card or printed copy of the electronic I-94 card and copy of admission stamp
  • Copy of your most recently issued F-1 I-20 – make sure it is signed
  • Copy of signed Dependent I-20
  • Copies of the pages in each individual’s passport that include biographical information, passport picture and passport expiration
  • Copies of financial verification in the form of a bank statement or letter from the F-1 spouse’s sponsor

Meet with an Immigration Coordinator in the Office of International Affairs to review the above documents.

You must be maintaining valid F-1 status at the time that USCIS receives your application. Also, be aware that it may take three to six months to get a response from USCIS. The Office of International Affairs recommends that this application be sent by certified mail with a return receipt.