I'm coming to the US with my family as a dependent on my parent's visa. Can I enroll in school or take some courses while I'm there? Would love to continue my studies if possible!
Yes, as a dependent on your parent's visa, you will be able to enroll in school and continue your studies in the United States. More specifically, as long as you hold a derivative visa (such as an H-4, if your parent is on an H-1B visa, for instance), you are allowed to study in U.S. institutions — this encompasses K-12 as well as postsecondary institutions.
One important thing to remember is that the duration of your studies must fall within the validity of your dependent visa status. If your studies extend beyond this period, you would need to change your immigration status. For example, if you're planning on enrolling in a four-year college degree program, you might want to consider transitioning to a student visa (F-1). The process could be complex and would require the guidance of an immigration attorney or an international student advisor.
Lastly, remember that although you are allowed to study, a dependent visa doesn't permit you to work full-time in the U.S. Some types can permit part-time on-campus jobs, but the regulations vary. So, it would be best to check the specific regulations regarding employment associated with your particular dependent visa.
As with any visa-related questions, it's important to consult with a legal professional or your school's international student office to understand all the options and implications.
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