Change of Status from F1 to L2

[ankitjc]

Hello,

I'm currently on F1 visa working in US.

I got married and want to switch to L2.

Can someone please help me understand how complicated this process is?

- Do i have to go to the home country for processing or Can i get the visa changed while staying in US?

- How much approx time does the complete process take?

Any help will be greatly appreciated!

Cheers.

[kabkaba]

You can file form I-539 to change your status. It will take about 2 to 3 months to get a decision. Remember that once L2 status is approved you will have to stop working unless L2 based EAD is also approved. You can file both I-539 and I-765(for EAD) in the same envelope and both may get approved together.
If you leave the US after change of status, you will need to obtain L2 Visa in order to return.

[ankitjc]

thanks @kabkaba