H-4 Visa: Bringing Your Family on Your H-1B Journey

The H-four visa, issued via way of means of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), lets in dependents of transient employees to are living inside the United States. This manual explains eligibility requirements, the software process, and essential issues for H-four visas.

Who Qualifies for an H-4 Visa?

The H-4 visa is designed for spouses and unmarried children below 21 of holders of the following nonimmigrant artwork visas:

* H-1B (Specialty Occupations)

* H-1C (Healthcare Workers in Free Trade Agreements)

* H-2A (Temporary Agricultural Workers)

* H-2B (Temporary Non-Agricultural Workers)

* H-three (Trainees)

To qualify, applicants must meet the following standards:

Spouses: Be legally married to the number one visa holder.

Children: Be single and below 21 years old with a determined retain one of the qualifying visas.

Additional Requirements

Valid Status for Primary Visa Holder: The H-1B, H-1C, H-2A, H-2B, or H-three visa holders ought to be in lawful status, with no violations or overstays.

Financial Support: The number one visa holder desires to illustrate enough economic sources to aid their H-four dependents, as H-four holders can not working without an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Clean Criminal Record: H-four candidates ought to have a history freed from any crook offenses that might save them from getting into America.

Costs and Processing Times

Filing Fee: The modern-day software charge for an H-four visa is $205, however, it`s endorsed to test with the American Embassy or consulate for modern-day information.

Processing Time: Processing instances range depending on vicinity and may be observed at the State Department website.

Working with an H-four Visa

While H-four visa holders commonly can not work for pay, there’s a choice to observe for an EAD. This report lets them try to find employment authorization inside the US. Processing instances for an EAD can take numerous months.

Applying for an H-four Visa

The software manner includes numerous steps:

• Eligibility Check: Confirm you meet the standards as a partner or infant of an H-1B or different qualifying visa holder.
• Gather Documents: Collect required files including passports, visa software forms (DS-one hundred sixty), marriage/beginning certificates, police certificates, and evidence of economic aid.
• Application and Fees: Complete the DS-one hundred sixty shape and pay the visa software charge.
• Visa Interview: Schedule an appointment and attend the interview at a US Embassy or consulate. Bring all required files for assessment with the aid of the consular officer.
• Visa Issuance: If approved, your H-four visa can be stamped on your passport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can H-four visa holders work inside the US? No, now no longer without an EAD acquired through USCIS.

Can H-four visa holders look inside the US? Yes, they could join full-time or part-time academic programs.

What takes place if the number one visa holder loses their process? If the H-1B holder loses their process, it may affect the H-four dependent’s status. The number one visa holder is trying to find a process switch to preserve each visa.

By information on the eligibility requirements, software manner, and boundaries of the H-four visa, you may make knowledgeable choices approximately bringing your circle of relatives to America whilst you pursue your work opportunities.

Conclusion

By understanding the eligibility requirements, application process, and limitations of the H-4 visa, you can make informed decisions about bringing your family to the US while you pursue your work opportunities. The H-4 visa offers a valuable opportunity for spouses and children to enjoy a supported and fulfilling life in the US alongside the primary visa holder.

However, it’s important to remember that the H-4 visa is tied to the status of the primary visa holder.

If the H-1B, H-1C, H-2A, H-2B, or H-3 visa holder’s status changes, it can impact the H-4 dependents’ status as well. Consulting with an immigration attorney can help navigate these complexities and ensure a smooth experience for your family.