H-4 Dependent Visa
Dependent visa for spouses and unmarried children under 21 of H-1B, H-2A, H-2B, and H-3 visa holders.
107,276
Visas Issued FY2023
No separate cap
Separate Cap
Certain H-1B spouses
EAD Eligibility
What is the H-4 Visa?
The H-4 visa is a nonimmigrant dependent visa issued to the immediate family members (spouse and unmarried children under 21) of H-1B, H-2A, H-2B, and H-3 visa holders. H-4 visa holders can live in the United States and attend school. Certain H-4 spouses of H-1B visa holders whose employers have filed an approved I-140 petition or who have been granted H-1B status beyond the sixth year are eligible to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to work in the U.S.
Eligibility Requirements
Application Process
Principal H visa holder obtains or maintains valid H status
H-4 applicant completes Form DS-160 and applies at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate
Attend visa interview with proof of relationship and principal's H visa status
If eligible for EAD, file Form I-765 with USCIS after entering the U.S.
Duration of Stay
Same as the principal H visa holder's authorized stay
Frequently Asked Questions
QCan H-4 visa holders work in the United States?
Most H-4 visa holders cannot work. However, H-4 spouses of H-1B holders are eligible for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) if the H-1B holder has an approved I-140 immigrant petition or has been granted an H-1B extension beyond the standard 6-year maximum under AC21.
QCan H-4 visa holders attend school?
Yes, H-4 visa holders can enroll in school at any level, including elementary, secondary, and higher education, without needing to change to F-1 student status. There are no restrictions on the type or duration of study.
QWhat happens to H-4 status if the H-1B holder changes jobs?
If the H-1B holder changes employers, the new employer must file a new H-1B petition. The H-4 dependent's status is tied to the principal's, so the H-4 holder should also file for an extension or amendment to maintain valid status. If the H-1B status lapses, the H-4 status also terminates.
Related Visa Types
H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa
Work visa for professionals in specialty occupations requiring a bachelor's degree or higher.
H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Visa
Temporary visa for foreign workers performing seasonal or temporary agricultural labor in the United States.
H-2B Temporary Non-Agricultural Worker Visa
Temporary visa for foreign workers filling non-agricultural positions that are seasonal, peak-load, intermittent, or one-time in nature.
F-1 Student Visa
Visa for international students enrolled in academic programs at U.S. educational institutions.
Related Immigration Forms
Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application
Required online application for all nonimmigrant visa applicants at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.
Application for Employment Authorization
Filed to request an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for work permission in the U.S.
Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status
Filed by nonimmigrants already in the U.S. to extend their current status or change to a different nonimmigrant classification.
Arrival/Departure Record
Documents a traveler's arrival and authorized stay period in the United States.
Bringing your family to the U.S. on an H visa?
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