H-4 EAD | H1-B Spouse Work Authorization

Form H-4 EAD is a form that grants work approval for dependents. An EAD, or Employment Authorization Document, is a small card that serves as proof that you have received permission to work here in the U.S. To get an EAD, you will need to apply for form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization.

Qualifications

  • H-1B spouse must have an approved I-140
  • You must be a dependent of an H-1B Visa holder (spouse or unmarried child under 21)

What You'll Need

  • Proof of qualifying relationship (birth certificate or marriage certificate)
  • Copy of spouse/parent's approved I-140
  • Proof of H-1B spouse/parent's maintenance of status, including recent paystubs
  • Passport style photos
  • Proof of marriage (if applicable)
  • H-4 Visa
  • Form I-765

Questions? Contact us.

Whatever your immigration issue may be, we are here to help. Our team of attorneys and staff work hard to help you reach your goals.

FAQs

How long is an EAD valid?

The expiration date on your EAD should be the same date as the expiration date on your most recent Form I-94 indicating your H-4 nonimmigrant status. You are only authorized to work through the expiration date on your EAD. If you are still eligible for employment authorization after that date, you should file for a renewal EAD by submitting another Form I-765. You cannot file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your original EAD expires.

Is there a fee to file the EAD and I-765?

Yes, there is a $410 filing fee. If you apply online, you can also pay online. If you pay by mail, then you can pay via money order, personal check, cashier’s check, or by credit card using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions. If you pay by check, you must make your check payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

How can I file my forms?

H-4 filings are all completed using paper; there is no online submission process. The address to be used depends on the filing; if you filing for an H-4 independently, along with a Form I-539, or with Form I-129 and form I-539. Find the appropriate address on the USCIS website.

You may be represented, at no expense to the U.S. government, by an attorney or other duly authorized representative. Your representative must submit Form G-28, Notice of Entry or Appearance as Attorney or Representative. Your representative may also submit Form G-28 at the time of your interview.

Why should I work with ImmigrationUSA?

Immigration issues can be quite complicated. Combine that with the current rate of change in U.S. policies, it can be hard to keep up. Our team puts their experience to work for you and your particular situation. We work hard to stay on top of policy changes and are prepared for changes down the line. We offer patented online software, MyEsq, that streamlines the filing process and makes our knowledgeable team of lawyers just a click away.

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