The H-4 visa provides legal dependents of H-1B visa holders the opportunity to work legally in the US through USCIS’ work authorization grant process and renewal. As this can be an intricate process, EB-5 Attorneys offer expert immigration legal services as part of this service.
Cost of H4 EAD Application
H4 EADs provide employment authorization documents that permit spouses of H-1B visa holders to work legally in the US. This can be vitally important to many families that rely on two incomes to make ends meet, though the process can take many months; not only is there the cost associated with filing your application itself but there may also be fees related to biometrics or filing through USCIS lockbox facilities.
H-4 EAD applicants must submit a completed Form I-765 along with a fee check for $520 USD payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security,” along with a copy of their previous H-4 EAD card.
While other nonimmigrant visas include employment authorization in their visa itself, this makes the H-4 EAD more challenging for those relying on it to find work and support their family. Furthermore, USCIS has not implemented premium processing for H-4 EAD applications, extensions or changes of status yet.
Cost of H4 EAD Renewal
H4 EADs are work authorization granted to dependent spouses of H1B visa holders that allows them to remain working while their green card or change of status application with USCIS is being processed, thus helping prevent employment gaps that might otherwise threaten livelihoods and ability to support families living here.
However, EADs expire after a certain amount of time and processing renewal applications can take some time; consequently many people cannot legally work while their renewal applications are being reviewed.
DHS has taken steps to prevent similar issues with their Automatic Extension Rule for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) holders. Under this temporary final rule, an EAD holder can continue working while their application for work authorization remains pending up to 540 days, up from 180. When consulting with VisaNation attorneys about your case, details regarding this new rule and any impactful implications could be discussed in greater depth.
Cost of H4 EAD Extension
H4 EADs provide employment authorization documents that enable spouses of nonimmigrant visa holders to legally work in the US. They serve as an invaluable resource for families unable to cover financial obligations on just one income alone and also assist them with transitioning toward permanent residency or green card status.
An EAD is valid for two years, renewable as often as necessary as long as the principal visa holder remains in H-1B status. USCIS requires applicants to submit proof of identity, age and relationship to principal visa holder as well as pay an application fee of $520.
USCIS currently does not offer premium processing for H-4 EAD documents, extensions or changes of status; however, Congress passed a bill in October 2020 that would enable expedited applications for such matters. Currently the Department of Homeland Security is considering this bill; however it has not taken effect as yet.
Cost of H4 EAD Filing
H4 EAD processing is an integral process for many families. As inflation rises, households often need both incomes to cover financial obligations. An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) allows certain non-immigrant visa holders’ spouses to work legally in the U.S. Moreover, this document is required when changing status to lawful permanent residents; however, under President Donald Trump’s administration consideration has been given for eliminating its availability for dependent spouses of H-1B visa holders.
H-4 EAD applications require applicants to submit Form I-765 and pay various fees, including filing and biometrics fees. Applicants who cannot afford the mandatory fees can seek waivers but should still provide all the necessary information and documents. Usually H-4 EAD processing takes approximately 90 days but this could vary due to USCIS workload issues; so be sure to keep an eye on your individual case status while waiting. It is advisable not to travel overseas during this period while your EAD application is being considered.
