H4 Dependent Visa

Family members of H-1B visa holders are admitted to the United States in the H-4 category.  Qualifying family members include the H-1B visa holder’s spouse, and children under 21 years of age.  Family members are admitted for the same period for which the principal family member is admitted on an H-1B visa.

Effective May 26, 2015, H-4 dependents were permitted to seek employment authorization, and finally work in the United States.  The Department of Homeland Security extended eligibility for employment authorization for H-4 dependent spouses of H-1B visa holders.  This was great news for H-4 visa holders, as many were dependent on their H-1B spouses, however they could not seek employment in the United States.  This rule will help reduce stress on dependents of H-1B visa holders, as in addition to employment, they can also obtain drivers licenses, bank accounts, and social security numbers.