H4 Visa

Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

1. What is an H-4 dependent visa?

The H-4 dependent visa is a nonimmigrant visa which allows the dependent spouse and children of principal H visa holders to enter into the U.S.

2. What privileges do I enjoy on H4 visa?

On H-4 visa, you may:

  1. Enter into the U.S. along with your spouse or join him/her later
  2. Not have to maintain a foreign residence
  3. Travel in and out of the U.S. or remain in the U.S. continuously as long as you are in the st
  4. Study in any U.S. university
OR
Check My Eligibility

3. How long can I stay in the U.S. on H4 visa?

Your H-4 status depends on the status of the principal H visa status. You lose your status once the H loses status.

4. Can I work on H-4 visa?

No, you may not work on H-4 visa in the U.S. The principal H visa holder has to support you.

5. Can I study on H-4 visa?

Yes, you may study on H-4 visa. You need not apply for F-1 student visa.

6. Can I extend my stay on H-4 visa?

Yes, you may apply for extension of stay on H-4 visa. H4 extension may be granted as long as the principal H visa holder maintains status.

Note: Your status depends on the status of principal H visa status. You lose your H-4 status once the principal H visa holder loses status.

7. Can I Change Status While on H-4 Visa?

Yes, you may apply for change of status to other nonimmigrant visa while on H-4 visa. Please check Work Visas, Study Visas for further details.

8. Are There Any Travel Restrictions on H-4 Visa?

No, there are no travel restrictions on H-4 visa. You may travel as many times as possible while you are on H-4 status.

However, you cannot take up the new activity/endeavor until the change of status is granted.

9. How Do I Apply For H-4 Visa?

Once the principal H applicant receives the Form I-797, Notice of Approval from the USCIS, you apply for H-4 visa by submitting:

  1. A filled-in Form DS-160, Nonimmigrant Visa Application
  2. One recent color photograph two inches square (50mm x 50mm) of each applicant, with the entire face visible. The picture should be taken before a light background and without head covering
  3. A passport, valid for travel to the U.S. for at least six months longer than your intended visit
  4. A copy of the marriage certificate in case you are a dependent spouse
  5. Birth certificate in case you are a dependent child below 21 years of age

10. Where Should I Submit My H4 Visa Application?

If you are:

  1. In lawful status in the U.S., submit the H-4 change of status application to a USCIS Service Center in the U.S.
  2. Outside the U.S., submit the visa application to the American Consulate where you reside

11. What is premium processing Time For H-4 Visa?

If applying at a U.S. consulate the processing time for H-4 visa is the same as the principal H visa applicant. If the Visa application is approved your passport will be returned by courier. If applying for a change of status at a USCIS Service Center the processing time will vary according to the Service Center work load to check the current processing time.