Can H-1B visa holders bring their spouses?
H-1B visa holders can bring their spouse to the US by applying for an H-4 visa, also known as a Dependent visa. Applicants can apply for this visa from their home country (offshore) or within the US (Onshore).
The H-4 visa has the same validity as that of their spouse’s visa. The H-4 visa holder is entitled to certain rights such as:
- They can study in the USA without requirement of any additional documents.
- They can work in the USA by applying for work authorization from the EAD.
- H-4 visa holders can start a business on their own with the Form - 1099.
*Want to apply for the US Dependent Visa? Talk to Y-Axis for guidance.
Eligibility and Requirements for H-4 Visa
People who are applying for the H-4 visa must meet the following criteria:
- A valid passport
- Spouse’s passport
- Passport size photographs
- Filled DS-160 application form
- Payment receipt of the application form
- Employment contract of the spouse
- Copy of the spouse’s Forms I-129 and I-797
- Copy of the spouse’s Labor Certification Application (LCA)
- Copy of the primary applicant's visa
- Recent tax filing information and pay stubs of the primary applicant
- Proof of funds of H-1B visa to support their spouses
- Approval of the H-1B visa holder confirming their relationship with the applicant
- Marriage Certificate
- Proof of identity
How to apply for H-4 visa?
People who are looking to apply for the H-4 visa can follow the steps mentioned below:
Step 1: Check your eligibility
Check if you meet the eligibility and requirements criteria of the H-4 visa.
Step 2: Gathering the required documents
Arrange all the documents that are required for the H-4 visa application.
Step 3: Submitting the application
Fill out Form DS -160 and submit the application.
Step 4: Complete the fee payment
Pay the required application and processing fee.
Step 5: Book an appointment
Schedule an appointment at the nearest U.S. embassy for an interview.
Step 6: Attend the interview
Attend the interview at the embassy and submit the required documents as asked.
Step 7: Visa approval
After giving the interview, the application is sent for processing. After a through verification the visa is approved.
Step 8: Receive the Visa
Upon the approval, the applicant will receive their H-4 visa.
Step 9: Migrate to the USA
You can now plan your itinerary, book tickets, and fly to the USA.
Processing Time for the H-4 visa
The processing time for the H-4 visa can take around 4 to 9 months.
Processing Fee for the H-4 Visa
The processing cost for the H-4 visa is $205.
Planning to Migrate to the USA? Reach out to Y-Axis, world’s No.1 overseas immigration company for step-by-step assistance.