The process involves submitting Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Eligibility hinges upon the H4 dependent spouse possessing an unexpired I-94 form showing H4 status and the H1-B spouse holding approved I-140 status or having been granted H1-B status beyond the six-year limit under the American Competitiveness in the Twenty-First Century Act (AC21) provisions. Supporting documentation, including copies of the H1-B spouse’s approval notices and the H4 applicant’s passport and visa, are critical for a successful application.
Gaining employment authorization provides significant advantages. It allows H4 dependent spouses to legally work in the United States, contributing to household income and enabling professional development. Historically, this opportunity was not available, limiting the economic potential of many highly skilled individuals. The establishment of this provision has broadened the talent pool available to U.S. employers and fostered greater economic contributions from immigrant families.
