Can I use Form W-7 to apply for an ITIN for my dependents as an F2

[anakor]

Hi, I have been in the United States for under two years. My spouse and two kids have valid entry status as F2 visa holders, but none have social security or Tax identification.

I recently learned that international students with dependent children can get tax credits.

Can I use Form W-7 to apply for an ITIN for my dependents?

If they get the ITINs, will it violate their visa policy?

Thank you in anticipation of clarification

[DMarkM1]

Yes, you would use a form W7 (extracts from instructions below) to apply for Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN) your spouse/dependents in F-2 status.  No, the ITIN will not violate their F-2 status. 

The ITIN is for federal tax purposes only.

An ITIN doesn’t entitle you to social security benefits and doesn’t change your immigration status or your right to work in the United States. 

The ITIN can’t be used to claim certain federal tax credits.

Individuals filing tax returns using an ITIN aren’t eligible for the earned income credit (EIC). Also, a child who has an ITIN can’t be counted as a qualifying child in figuring the amount of the EIC. Also, for tax years 2018 through 2025, a child who has an ITIN can’t be claimed as a qualifying child for purposes of the child tax credit and the additional child tax credit.

From Publication 1915:

An allowable tax benefit includes:

•  a spouse filing a joint return, 
• head of household (HOH), 
• American opportunity tax credit (AOTC), 
• premium tax credit (PTC), 
• child and dependent care credit (CDCC), or 
• credit for other dependents (ODC). 

Here is a link with more information on applying for an ITIN.