Can H-1B visa holders bring their spouses?

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.