What are the procedures for having an immediate family member or members come to visit me or to join me?
An immediate family member is defined by the U.S. government as a child under the age of 21 or a married spouse of the F-1 student or the J-1 exchange visitor. In order for someone to join you at SMU, they will be required to apply for an F-2 or J-2 visa rather than a visitors visa. F-1s must obtain a new Form I-20 by showing that additional money is available to support your immediate family member(s) in addition to yourself. J-1s must also provide evidence of having additional money available to support the immediate family member(s). If you wish your immediate family member(s) to join you, please visit with an International Student Advisor.
