L1 visa, filing tax returns for dependents, self
I was on L1 visa work permit in US, Foreign National from May 2008 - Nov 2008 , My wife and my kid did not stayed with me for the entire period but they are having valid L2 visa.
I have received my W2, and would like to know few things related to tax return
1) Can I file the tax return as "Married Filing Jointly"? My wife and child does not have SSN as well as ITIN at the moment
2) Does it require being physically present in order to apply for ITIN?
3). Can I file joint return as residents along with W7 form ( keeping blank SSN in the tax return form)
4) Please suggest the status under which I can file my tax returns.
Thanks in advance.
RR