Do minors need to attend the L-2 visa interview?

Not always. The L-2 visa is granted to dependents of the L-1 visa holder, and consular posts commonly waive the requirement for young children to appear at the interview in order to simplify the process and reduce inconvenience for the family.

This waiver, however, is not automatic: it varies based on the dependent’s age and the guidelines of the specific consulate or embassy handling the case. In some situations, when the minor is included in the petition alongside the principal applicant, their presence may not be required.

Because administrative practices differ from post to post and change over time, the safest step is to confirm directly with the consular unit responsible for the interview what applies to your specific situation.

Consult the official guidance from the U.S. Department of State and be cautious of any promises of guaranteed outcomes without a legal basis. This keeps the process clear and safe for the entire family.

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.