They can be discussed, but permissions depend on the actual principal and dependent status. Qualifying L spouses are employment-authorized incident to status; children do not receive work authorization solely through L-2.
Mark the unresolved dependency
Describe each person’s intended activity and identify which plans depend on the assignment proceeding. Verify the spouse’s documentation and keep age and study questions visible. An employer’s expected project date does not establish the family’s immigration outcome. The dependent categories cover a qualifying spouse and unmarried children under 21. Check each person’s relationship, age and period of authorized stay rather than extending a permission from another household member.
Where the filing date may move on legal advice, avoid decisions the household cannot unwind: notice on housing, a resignation by a spouse, or a school place that must be accepted by a fixed date. Decide what that split costs: duplicate housing, travel between two homes, a spouse carrying the household alone, and a school year that may not align with the eventual move.