Can L-1 visa holders’ children study in the United States?

Yes. The dependent children of an L-1 visa holder, typically in L-2 visa status, are entitled to study in the United States without needing an additional immigration status solely to attend school.

In practice, this covers everything from basic education (schooling for children and teenagers, known as K-12) at public and private schools, to more advanced levels, as long as the family’s immigration status is in order. Dependent status allows access to studies just like any student in nonimmigrant status.

• Public and private schools accept enrollment of L-2 dependents.
• There is no need to change status just to study.
• Scholarships and student financial aid may have their own rules for non-residents.

Since regulations may be updated and each institution has its own procedures, it is worth confirming current guidelines with the intended school, official sources, or a specialist before enrolling.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.