H4 visa uscis. legally and, in some cases, work or study.

H4 visa uscis Jan 29, 2025 · In the past, before October 1st, 2023, if you were filing for H4 EAD along with H4 Visa Extension or Change of Status (COS) concurrently with form I-539 form in the same package, then USCIS would have needed Biometrics to adjudicate the H4 EAD. Obtaining and extending H-4 status There are two ways family members can acquire or extend H-4 status: (A) by applying for H-4 visas at a U. Applicants may face employment gaps, travel restrictions, and prolonged processing times. Check Case Status Use this tool to track the status of an immigration application, petition, or request. Whether you are a dependent of an H1B visa holder or considering sponsoring your spouse or child, this overview will help you navigate the H4 visa application journey. This can be done by entering the receipt number of the application on the USCIS website. Eligible dependents may obtain or extend H-4 status from within the U. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is issuing policy guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual to address automatic extension of employment authorization for certain H-4, E, and L nonimmigrant dependent spouses. What is an H-4 EAD? Oct 13, 2025 · Learn the most frequently asked H4 EAD questions regarding work permits for H-4 dependent spouses including fees, process & more! Most recent Visa from passport Passport Picture Page The 3rd and final Step is filing your H-4 visa petition with USCIS. Aug 25, 2020 · We are often asked how to verify the case status. Sep 10, 2025 · Yes, if you are already in the US, you can apply for an H4 visa or adjust your status through USCIS by filing Form I-539. The H4 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that enables the holder to live temporarily in the US, whilst the primary visa holder has permission to be there on their H Visa. Renew 180 days before expiry. Employment authorization is typically available only if the principal H-1B employee is at an advanced stage of the US permanent residence process. Understanding the H4 Visa The H4 visa is issued by U. Knowing how long you might have to wait can help you plan your travel and settle your affairs before moving. There is no premium processing, and automatic extensions are limited to the H-4 I-94 expiration date. Alert USCIS processing times for certain form types may no longer reference a specific service center location (for example, Vermont Service Center). Jul 18, 2025 · Learn the process of transferring from H1B to H4 visa, including advantages and disadvantages. It allows spouses and unmarried children under 21 to reside in the U. Understand eligibility criteria and application procedures for family members. If you are within the US, you can submit your H4 visa application through the USCIS. Oct 31, 2025 · The H-4 visa is a non-immigrant visa issued by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to the dependents of temporary visa holders, primarily those on H-1B visas. Jan 24, 2025 · Learn the process of filing H4 extension and EAD together, including eligibility, required documents, and submission options. You must maintain a correct, current address with USCIS so they can re-send it if it is returned to them by the US Postal Service. H1B primary I797 receipt required. under the H-4 EAD program. H-4 DependentsThe spouse and unmarried minor children (under 21 years of age) of an H-1B scholar are eligible to apply for H-4 dependent status. For example, a H1B visa is a type of H1 visa Nov 25, 2024 · If you do not file this separate request before your status expires, USCIS will deny your Form I-539 request to change to M-1 status. Keep in mind that this only covers USCIS processing time; the entire process of securing an H-4 EAD visa can take, on average, between six and eight months. or through travel. Questions related to the H-4 application should be directed to an immigration attorney or USCIS. This service allows the U. A H-4 visa stamp application is a personal application between the applicant and the Department of State [DOS]. Processing time 2-7 month. The H-4 visa does not allow the holder to work in the United States, however, they Jun 14, 2023 · As of November 12, 2021, USCIS considers certain E-1, E-2, E-3 and L-2 nonimmigrant dependent spouses employment authorized incident to status. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for an EAD that Aug 6, 2025 · To find your alien registration number for H-1B, you can find it in the visa stamp on your passport, work permit, green card, and the notice within the envelope sent by USCIS. Aug 8, 2025 · The H4 visa is a nonimmigrant visa for dependents of certain H visa holders in the United States. The H-4 visa is issued to spouses and children under 21 years old of H1B, H1B1, H2A, H2B, and H3 primary visa holders to reunite in the United States. Under this visa, the spouse or dependent may travel with the primary May 21, 2025 · In addition to nonimmigrants in H-1B and H-2A categories, nonimmigrant aliens in other categories may receive extensions of stay if their employers timely file Form I-129 (or Form I-129CW, Petition for a CNMI-Only Nonimmigrant Transitional Worker for CW-nonimmigrants) with USCIS. Sample I-129 Petition Receipt The EAD will be returned to USCIS. with the primary visa holder. Apr 16, 2022 · An end note Continuous and sudden changes in the H4 visa renewal process can be overwhelming for H4 visa holders to keep track of. 4 days ago · Understand the new USCIS payment requirements and how to submit fees electronically for paper-filed applications. An application for H-4 status is a personal application between the applicant and the United States Citizenship & Immigration Services [USCIS]. Nov 17, 2025 · Current Processing Times for H-4 EADs in November 2025 As of 2025, the current H-4 EAD processing time typically takes about four months. Jun 17, 2019 · You will need the following documents for getting H-4 visa stamping: Mandatory Documents Current passport as well as old passports One photograph (Only for dropbox appointment) Confirmation page of online submitted Form DS-160 with CEAC bar code. Aug 6, 2020 · EAD The EAD (Employment Authorization Card) has your USCIS number (USCIS#). With the 2025 end of the Edakunni settlement, processing times have increased beyond six months. Discover the steps and implications of this transition. Oct 9, 2025 · The following groups use this form: Certain nonimmigrants extending their stay or changing to another nonimmigrant status; CNMI residents applying for an initial grant of status; F and M nonimmigrants applying for reinstatement; and, Persons seeking V nonimmigrant status or an extension of stay as a V nonimmigrant. Employers risk workforce disruptions and higher The H-4 visa is a dependent visa for spouses and children of H visa holders, allowing them to live, study, and, in some cases, work in the U. The USCIS fee is $370 plus the $85 biometrics fee for each applicant. Current USCIS processing times for H1B, H4, L, F1, EAD, Green Cards (I-140, Advance parole, I-485), Others Nov 12, 2021 · Purpose U. Aug 19, 2025 · If USCIS approves an untimely filed application or petition to extend an applicant’s or beneficiary’s stay, the approval is effective as of the date of the expiration of the prior nonimmigrant admission period. Aug 19, 2025 · A. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to dependents of certain nonimmigrant workers, including H-1B visa holders. Please continue to check the USCIS processing times while your Form I-539 change of status request is pending to determine if you need to file a request to extend or change your nonimmigrant status. May 6, 2025 · The INA requires that, with limited exceptions, all aliens 14 years of age or older who were not registered and fingerprinted (if required) when applying for a U. An H-4 EAD can only be obtained if the H-1B principal has reached a qualifying stage in the green card process, such as having an approved I-140 petition. Its primary purpose The H4 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows dependents of H-1B visa holders to reside in the United States. It is a very simple process. Visa fees Fees to be paid in advance before taking an appointment. S. H-4 filings and visa applications are the responsibility of the H-1B scholar and their dependents. Now dependent spouses of H1B nonimmigrants are eligible to apply for H4 visa EAD, employment authorization, allowing them to legally work in the United States. Learn about its duration, how to apply for an extension, H4 visa benefits, etc. Nov 13, 2021 · Articles related to H4 Visa in US for Spouses of H1B holders, Latest News, Updates from USCIS, EAD information, work options, study on H4, etc. Eligible Nonimmigrants In general, nonimmigrants who have been lawfully admitted to the United States and maintain the status in which they were admitted (or previously changed to) may seek to change from one visa classification under INA 101 (a) (15) to another, with certain restrictions. [8] When USCIS approves a late filed application for a change of status, the change of status takes effect on the approval date. You can verify your case status online from your home or office, even from your cell phone! Apr 10, 2024 · The H4 visa biometrics appointment is a required part of the visa application process for H4 visa applicants. visa and who remain in the United States for 30 days or longer, must apply for registration and fingerprinting. However, the automatic renewal extension period now allows up to 540 days of work continuity, easing some delays and disruptions. Filing USCIS Form I-539 Jan 24, 2025 · The following information addresses common questions by individuals in H-1B nonimmigrant status, particularly related to applying for lawful permanent resident (LPR) status, job changes or terminations, international travel, and dependent family members. May 24, 2025 · This page displays the current processing time for H4 EAD applications across all USCIS service centers. Sep 16, 2025 · Sample i539 Form for H4 extension within USA with biometric appointment. i539 online. Other aliens whose immigration status authorizes them to work in the United States without restrictions may also use Form I-765 to apply to U. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to process their forms (I-539 for status extension and I-765 for work permits) faster when combined with a premium-processed H1B I-129 petition (used by the worker to Sep 10, 2025 · 1. This data is frequently. gov on Form AR-11. Mandatory Document, Optional Documents, Official List from the Appointment, Common FAQs What is a H4 Visa? H4 visas are available for certain family members of individuals who hold H1, H2, and H3 visas. Depending on the classification, an employer or the alien must file a petition with USCIS. Feb 14, 2025 · If USCIS denies the EAD renewal application, the employee’s work authorization ends immediately, requiring the employer to terminate employment to remain compliant with federal regulations. H-4 spouses may apply through Form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization, commonly referred to as H4 EAD. legally and, in some cases, work or study. This includes standalone I-765 applications as well as H4 EAD applications filed with a status change (I-539). Similarly, if the principal H1B visa holder loses their status, the H4 visa holder’s status—and consequently their work authorization—also ends. 1. Nov 5, 2025 · File H4 EAD yourself with I-765 form, document checklist. embassy or consulate outside the U. Mar 26, 2018 · This fact sheet provides an overview of the H-4 visa category, details the characteristics of H-4 recipients, explains the work eligibility of certain H-4 spouses, and describes the benefits of continuing to allow these H-4 spouses to work. NOTE: USCIS may approve an extension of status for a T-1 nonimmigrant, based on exceptional circumstances, when an approved eligible family member is awaiting initial issuance of a T visa by a consulate and the T-1 nonimmigrant’s status is soon to expire. Jan 7, 2025 · Complete List of H4 Visa Interview Documents Checklist, OFC Documents for Biometrics. Mandatory Documents, Optional Documents, List from Official Appointment letter, Misc. Jul 28, 2025 · What is the H-4 Visa? The H-4 visa is a type of visa issued by U. What is an H4 Visa? The H4 Visa is a dependent visa issued to immediate family members (spouses and children under 21) of H1B visa holders. However, certain H-4 spouses may be eligible to apply to the US Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) for H-4 employment authorization. To help you get started on your H1B visa journey, visit TechFetch H1B. Gathering all of these completed documents will ensure that your H4 visa application process goes smoothly. By following the necessary steps, submitting required forms, and staying updated on regulations, H4 visa holders can successfully extend their work authorization. Navigate the H-4 Visa process for dependents with our comprehensive guide. In order to get an H-4 EAD, you must be the spouse of a principal H-1B visa holder and apply for the employment authorization document (EAD) through U. The H4 Visa is a popular option for families of foreign professionals who work in the U. Concurrent filing for EAD (Form I-765) along with H-4 visa application (Form I-539, Change of Status or Extension of Status) is allowed. Arming yourself with the most recent updates at all times should make your H4 Visa and EAD extension a manageable process. After receiving the application, USCIS issues Form I-797C, Notice of Action, confirming acceptance and providing a receipt number for tracking the case. com Dec 9, 2024 · H4 Visa or H4 dependent visa is the US visa category given to the spouse and children ( under 21 years of age) of all H visa holders such as H1B Visa, H1B1 Visa, H2A, H2B and H3. It involves a visit to an authorized USCIS Application Support Center, where applicants have their biometric data taken, including fingerprints, photo, and signature. port of entry or (B) by submitting a Form I-539 (and Form I-539A for each additional dependent) application to USCIS while they remain in the U. I-140 Approval Notice A-Number will be listed under the “BENEFICIARY” column, where both the A-Number and your name will be listed. Fees $520. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to eligible family members of H-1B, H-1C, H-2A, H-2B, and H-3 visa holders. The H4 EAD allows some spouses of H-1B visa holders to get work authorization in the U. Understanding the H4 visa requirements is crucial for ensuring a smooth application process and securing USCIS approval. The expiration of the Edakunni settlement is particularly impactful for spouses in H-4 status working Jul 18, 2025 · Understanding H4 Visa Processing Time If you’re planning on applying for an H4 visa, which is a visa issued to the dependent family members of H-1B visa holders, it’s essential to have an understanding of the expected processing times. May 20, 2015 · USCIS has published information to help eligible H-4 dependent spouses who want to apply for employment authorization under the Employment Authorization for Certain H-4 Dependent Spouses final rule. It allows them to reside in the U. [1] Feb 12, 2025 · H-4 visa holders are generally not allowed to work unless eligible for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). H4 EAD employment information required. What is an H-1B Dependent (H-4 Visa)? The H-4 visa is a dependent visa available to spouses and children of H-1B visa holders. USCIS is also rescinding the 2002 Legacy Immigration and Naturalization Service memorandum entitled, “Guidance on Employment Authorization for E and L Nonimmigrant Jul 18, 2025 · Are you looking for an overview of the H4 visa? This article provides a concise explanation of the basics, including eligibility requirements, application process, and benefits. A USCIS# is issued for all types of EADs, including EADs for OPT, CPT, or H-4 or L-2 visas. Dec 9, 2024 · Complete List of H4 Dropbox Documents Checklist. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This is the same as the A-Number. Apr 11, 2024 · Visa Waiver Program Crew member (D nonimmigrant visa) In transit through the United States (C nonimmigrant visa) Fiancé of a U. An H-4 visa is a United States visa issued to dependent family members of H-1B, H-1B1, H-2A, H-2B, and H-3 visa holders to allow them to travel to the United States to accompany or reunite with the principal visa holder. May 21, 2019 · H4 visa EAD must be filed as regular processing only as premium processing is not available. Know more about H-4 Visa - eligibility criteria, required documents, benefits, the application process and interview questions etc. under the H1B visa. Spouses of H-1B holders can work after obtaining a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD), while spouses of H-2A, H-2B, and H-3 visa holders do not qualify for work authorization The H-4 visa application process involves confirming the H-1B visa The H-4 visa, issued by USCIS, is for the dependents of certain non-immigrant workers. Jan 22, 2025 · Complete Details on H4 EAD Premium Processing and H4 Visa by USCIS. Latest News updates, Effective Date, Filing Fees, USCIS Regulation Info Feb 7, 2025 · Following the January 18, 2025 expiration of the court settlement in Edakunni v. General Eligibility for Change of Status to F-1 1. , and the recent USCIS biometric services fee exemption represents a significant development in simplifying the application process for H4 visa applicants and other nonimmigrant categories requested via Form I-539. [1] The alien must meet all eligibility criteria 4 days ago · H4 workers face rising stress as EAD delays grow and employers avoid H1B sponsorship, creating long term job uncertainty in the US. Mayorkas, USCIS is no longer required to adjudicate dependent status applications – and accompanying employment authorization document (EAD) applications – concurrently with the principal spouse’s petition. So for example, if there are 3 H-4 applicants (Spouse of H-1B Visa holder, and 2 children of the H-1B Visa Holder), then the fee would be $370 + $85 + $85 Sep 27, 2023 · In conclusion, the H4 visa remains a critical means for family reunification while one member works in the U. For example, the main visa holder may be in the US for work or training purposes and have their spouse or dependent child with them under an H4 Dependents visa. Jul 22, 2025 · H-4 spouses with approved I-140 can work in the U. uscis. We answer the most commonly asked questions on the H4 visa. Original Interview appointment letter and one copy. The H4 visa allows certain family members to live in the United States along with their family member who holds a H1, H2, or H3 visa. It is important that BOTH the H-1B AND the H-4 complete separate Forms AR-11. Form i539A required for child. ” Service Center Operations has expanded its capability to process casework at multiple locations, at Jan 16, 2025 · Edakunni Settlement Expiration: USCIS Ends Application Bundling in 2025 The Edakunni settlement ending on January 18, 2025, will unbundle USCIS processing of H-4/L-2/EAD applications, increasing delays in dependent visa and work authorization processing. citizen or dependent of a fiancé (K nonimmigrant visa) Informant (and accompanying family) on terrorism or organized crime (S nonimmigrant visa) Jan 24, 2025 · A special immigrant is an alien who qualifies for a Green Card (permanent residence) after meeting certain criteria. Sep 24, 2025 · Certain aliens who are in the United States may file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to request employment authorization and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). This type of visa allows the accompanying family members of the H-1B visa holder to stay in the United States while the H-1B visa holder is working and living in the United States. The USCIS Case Status for H4 EAD (Employment Authorization Document) is a way for applicants to track the status of their H4 EAD application. You can apply to reinstate your student status, extend, (if you already hold the status), or change to the statuses. May 28, 2025 · This page shows the current USCIS processing time for Form I-539 which is used for an extension of status or stay. . Jul 5, 2025 · As of January 2025, H-4 EAD applications are processed separately from H-4 visas, causing longer wait times averaging four to six months. Feb 11, 2025 · Discover how to locate and understand the Alien Registration Number for H4 visa holders, essential for accurate immigration filings. However, an H-4 visa petition would have to be approved first before the EAD can be approved. You are applying, only for yourself, without co-applicants, and you will not require legal or accredited representation at any point in your request. While the H4 visa allows dependents to join the H1B visa Travel: When traveling, H-4 dependents should carry a copy of the H-1B Approval Notice, a copy of the H-1B petition most recently submitted to USCIS, as well as any other relevant documents related to H-4 status (Approval Notice, H-4 visa stamp, letter from hiring department confirming employment) and a valid passport. Jan 27, 2025 · USCIS Process Steps USCIS follows several steps to process an H4 visa application filed with an H1B petition under premium processing. and then applying for H-4 admission at a U. Jul 10, 2025 · The H4 visa is a nonimmigrant visa issued by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to immediate family members of certain H-category visa holders. What is the DS-160 form, and why is it necessary? Aug 1, 2025 · If you filed Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to renew your expiring EAD, you may qualify for an up-to-540-day automatic extension of the expiration date printed on your EAD while your application is pending. Applicants may not use Form I-539 to apply for or change to T nonimmigrant status. Jan 18, 2025 · Currently, H4 visa holders (spouses and dependents of H1B workers) benefit from premium processing if they file their application with the H1B application. To apply for H4 EAD, applicants must complete and submit Form I-765 to USCIS along with the appropriate H4 visa EAD fees. Where to Apply for a H4 Visa? If you are outside the US, you will need to submit your application for H4 Visa at the US Embassy where your spouse or parent has applied or in your home country if you and your spouse are of different nationalities. You can update your address online at www. Apr 24, 2025 · In order for you to come to the United States lawfully as a nonimmigrant to work temporarily, your prospective employer must generally file a nonimmigrant petition on your behalf with USCIS. Thus, in order to be approved for a H4 visa, your family member must hold one of the above visas. Early filing is crucial to avoid employment gaps for H-4 spouses. H4 Employment Authorization Document (EAD) H-4 classifies dependent spouses of nonimmigrants who are on the H-1B visa. Learn more about H4 visa eligibility and the application process here! Mar 19, 2021 · You may apply online to extend or change your nonimmigrant status if you meet the following conditions. H-4 dependents are not allowed to work while in the US. Aug 2, 2024 · Visit our H-1B Visa page for more information on eligibility for the H-1B program. We are in the process of adjusting all processing times for service center-related forms to now list “Service Center Operations (SCOPS). Apr 10, 2024 · Extending the H4 Visa EAD is crucial for H4 visa holders to continue working in the US. Aug 24, 2025 · Applying for an H4 Visa from Within the United States Individuals already in the United States on a different nonimmigrant visa can apply to change their status to H4, or extend an existing H4 visa, by filing Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, with U. The following is the list of documents required to prepare for H4 visa stamping. See full list on uscisguide. This data is updated daily based on USCIS processing time. weugvy qgmq ifkk smlv cfyiag yuhin vcsyuvonq pfmgup hjie nfhout fztlzea ztwdl bwlfs rogui iuads