: H4 visa uscis You can bookmark or save the link, as this data is updated daily based on USCIS processing times. 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. 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. If you are within the US, you can submit your H4 visa application through the USCIS. [2] If a dependent of an H-1B, H-1B1, H-2A, H-2B, or H-3 worker is already in the United Feb 11, 2025 · Discover how to locate and understand the Alien Registration Number for H4 visa holders, essential for accurate immigration filings. 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. ” Service Center Operations has expanded its capability to process casework at multiple locations, at 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. 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. However, the automatic renewal extension period now allows up to 540 days of work continuity, easing some delays and disruptions. . Employers risk workforce disruptions and higher 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. However, an H-4 visa petition would have to be approved first before the EAD can be approved. Processing time 2-7 month. H-4 spouses may apply through Form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization, commonly referred to as H4 EAD. Sample I-129 Petition Receipt 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. 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. The H-4 visa, issued by USCIS, is for the dependents of certain non-immigrant workers. Renew 180 days before expiry. Jul 22, 2025 · H-4 spouses with approved I-140 can work in the U. The settlement required USCIS to bundle the processing of status and work permit applications for H-4 or L-2 dependents with the H-1B or L-1 principal’s underlying I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker. under the H1B visa. Learn more about H4 visa eligibility and the application process here! What is a H4 Visa? H4 visas are available for certain family members of individuals who hold H1, H2, and H3 visas. Apr 11, 2024 · Visa Waiver Program Crew member (D nonimmigrant visa) In transit through the United States (C nonimmigrant visa) Fiancé of a U. Can I travel while my change of status is pending? 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. Alert USCIS processing times for certain form types may no longer reference a specific service center location (for example, Vermont Service Center). You can verify your case status online from your home or office, even from your cell phone! H-4 dependents are not allowed to work while in the US. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for an EAD that May 21, 2019 · H4 visa EAD must be filed as regular processing only as premium processing is not available. H4 Employment Authorization Document (EAD) H-4 classifies dependent spouses of nonimmigrants who are on the H-1B visa. Current USCIS processing times for H1B, H4, L, F1, EAD, Green Cards (I-140, Advance parole, I-485), Others Apr 10, 2024 · The H4 visa biometrics appointment is a required part of the visa application process for H4 visa applicants. Original Interview appointment letter and one copy. It involves a visit to an authorized USCIS Application Support Center, where applicants have their biometric data taken, including fingerprints, photo, and signature. com H-4 EAD Guides Use these sources for context, examples, and supplementary insights—always cross-check with official USCIS pages. 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. 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. Nov 25, 2025 · H4 workers face rising stress as EAD delays grow and employers avoid H1B sponsorship, creating long term job uncertainty in the US. presence and authorization. Dec 9, 2024 · Complete List of H4 Dropbox Documents Checklist. What is the DS-160 form, and why is it necessary? 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. May 28, 2025 · This page shows the current processing times for Form I-539 if you have applied for a change of status to H4, B1/B2, L2, F, M, or J visa. legally and, in some cases, work or study. With the 2025 end of the Edakunni settlement, processing times have increased beyond six months. 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. There is no premium processing, and automatic extensions are limited to the H-4 I-94 expiration date. Visa fees Fees to be paid in advance before taking an appointment. We are in the process of adjusting all processing times for service center-related forms to now list “Service Center Operations (SCOPS). citizen or dependent of a fiancé (K nonimmigrant visa) Informant (and accompanying family) on terrorism or organized crime (S nonimmigrant visa) Aug 25, 2020 · We are often asked how to verify the case status. The expiration of the Edakunni settlement is particularly impactful for spouses in H-4 status working . 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. Employment authorization is typically available only if the principal H-1B employee is at an advanced stage of the US permanent residence process. embassy or consulate outside the U. The H4 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows dependents of H-1B visa holders to reside in the United States. Learn about its duration, how to apply for an extension, H4 visa benefits, etc. This can be done by entering the receipt number of the application on the USCIS website. 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 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. It is a very simple process. The USCIS fee is $370 plus the $85 biometrics fee for each applicant. 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. Sep 27, 2023 · In conclusion, the H4 visa remains a critical means for family reunification while one member works in the U. Applicants may face employment gaps, travel restrictions, and prolonged processing times. Aug 2, 2024 · Visit our H-1B Visa page for more information on eligibility for the H-1B program. Mandatory Documents, Optional Documents, List from Official Appointment letter, Misc. Check Case Status Use this tool to track the status of an immigration application, petition, or request. 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. S. 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. under the H-4 EAD program. 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. 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. The H4 Visa is a popular option for families of foreign professionals who work in the U. 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 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. com 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. What is the H-4 Visa? The H-4 visa is a type of visa issued by U. Aug 8, 2025 · What Is an H4 Visa and Who Is Eligible? Your comprehensive guide to the H4 visa. Thus, in order to be approved for a H4 visa, your family member must hold one of the above visas. We answer the most commonly asked questions on the H4 visa. Discover its function, who can apply as an H-1B dependent, and the path to U. This service allows the U. 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. If you have applied for an extension of status, then refer to the link provided. Jul 10, 2025 · The Edakunni settlement expired on January 18, 2025, and is no longer in effect. Jan 24, 2025 · A special immigrant is an alien who qualifies for a Green Card (permanent residence) after meeting certain criteria. Mandatory Document, Optional Documents, Official List from the Appointment, Common FAQs Know more about H-4 Visa - eligibility criteria, required documents, benefits, the application process and interview questions etc. Fees $520. 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. Jan 27, 2025 · USCIS Process Steps USCIS follows several steps to process an H4 visa application filed with an H1B petition under premium processing. Jan 7, 2025 · Complete List of H4 Visa Interview Documents Checklist, OFC Documents for Biometrics. 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. The H4 EAD allows some spouses of H-1B visa holders to get work authorization in the U. 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. 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). 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. Understanding the H4 visa requirements is crucial for ensuring a smooth application process and securing USCIS approval. 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! Sep 10, 2025 · 1. H1B primary I797 receipt required. Applicants may not use Form I-539 to apply for or change to T nonimmigrant status. See full list on uscisguide. General Eligibility for Change of Status to F-1 1. For example, a H1B visa is a type of H1 visa Aug 19, 2025 · A. , 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. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to dependents of certain nonimmigrant workers, including H-1B visa holders. 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. [1] A dependent family member is a spouse or unmarried child under the age of 21. 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. 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 Most recent Visa from passport Passport Picture Page The 3rd and final Step is filing your H-4 visa petition with USCIS. 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. Feb 12, 2025 · Similarly, for family members of H-1B beneficiaries who are currently on H4 visa status, they will either need to apply for an H-4 extension of stay via USCIS Form I-539 within 6 months of their expiration date or depart prior to the expiration date of their current visa status and request a new H4 visa directly at a US consulate abroad. 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. It allows them to reside in the U. 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. While the H4 visa allows dependents to join the H1B visa 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. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). and then applying for H-4 admission at a U. 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 Mar 19, 2021 · You may apply online to extend or change your nonimmigrant status if you meet the following conditions. 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. 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. 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. 3 days ago · Boundless H-4 Visa Overview Khandelwal Law: H1B to H4 Guide Manifest Law: H-4 EAD Requirements ImmigrationQuestion. After receiving the application, USCIS issues Form I-797C, Notice of Action, confirming acceptance and providing a receipt number for tracking the case. Depending on the classification, an employer or the alien must file a petition with USCIS. Nov 5, 2025 · File H4 EAD yourself with I-765 form, document checklist. [1] The alien must meet all eligibility criteria 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. 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. However, certain H-4 spouses may be eligible to apply to the US Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) for H-4 employment authorization. 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. Feb 7, 2025 · Following the January 18, 2025 expiration of the court settlement in Edakunni v. Frequently Asked Questions 1. This data is frequently. 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. 1. You are applying, only for yourself, without co-applicants, and you will not require legal or accredited representation at any point in your request. 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.

H4 visa uscis. We answer the most commonly asked questions on the H4 visa.