H-4 Dependent Visa

The H-4 visa is a non-immigrant visa category that allows dependents (spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old) of H visa holders to accompany them to the United States. Here are key aspects of the H-4 visa:

Key Features of the H-4 Dependent Visa:

Eligibility:

The H-4 visa is available to the spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old of H visa holders, including H-1B, H-1B1, H-2A, H-2B, and H-3 visa holders.

Dependent Status:

H-4 visa holders are considered dependents of the primary H visa holder and are not authorized to work in the United States unless they obtain separate work authorization.

Duration:

The duration of the H-4 visa is typically tied to the validity period of the primary H visa holder’s visa. H-4 visa holders can stay in the United States as long as the primary visa holder maintains valid status.

Employment Authorization:

H-4 visa holders may be eligible to apply for employment authorization if the primary H visa holder is pursuing employment-based lawful permanent residency (green card).

Study:

H-4 visa holders may attend school in the United States, including primary and secondary education, as well as college or university.

Travel:

H-4 visa holders may travel in and out of the United States while maintaining valid visa status. However, they must ensure they have the necessary travel documents and comply with all entry requirements.

Dependent Benefits:

H-4 visa holders may be eligible for certain benefits, such as healthcare coverage and access to social security numbers, depending on their specific circumstances.

Dependent Renewal:

H-4 visa holders must renew their visa status along with the primary H visa holder if they wish to continue residing in the United States beyond the expiration date of their current visa.