User Question: My friend came to the U.S. on a visit visa and later changed to a student visa (F1). He wants to invite his wife and children from Pakistan. How can he do this?

Expert Answer: Your friend can invite his wife and children to the U.S. by applying for an F2 dependent visa for them. The F2 visa is specifically for dependents (spouse and unmarried children under 21) of F1 visa holders. To apply, he needs to request a new Form I-20 from his school's Designated School Official (DSO) for each dependent. His family will then use the I-20 to apply for the F2 visa at the U.S. embassy in Pakistan. They must also show proof of financial support, his valid F1 status, and ties to Pakistan to demonstrate nonimmigrant intent.