The H-4 visa is a dependent visa.
It’s for spouses and unmarried children under 21 of U.S. work visa holders in the H category, most often H-1B workers.
It lets families stay together in the U.S. You can live, study, and, in limited cases, even work. But the process depends on where you’re applying from. Inside the U.S. or outside the U.S.
Let’s walk through the H-4 application process step by step.
Step 1: Confirm You’re Eligible for an H-4 Visa
Before anything else, you must qualify.
To apply for an H-4 visa:
- You’re the spouse or unmarried child under 21 of an H-category visa holder
- The main visa holder is maintaining a valid H status
- You’re admissible under U.S. immigration rules
- No serious immigration or criminal violations
If that checks out, you’re good to move forward.
Step 2: Choose Your H-4 Application Path
There are two paths.
Option A: Applying Outside the U.S. (Consular Processing)
This is the most common route. You apply through a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
Option B: Applying Inside the U.S. (Change or Extension of Status)
Already in the U.S. on another visa? You may not need to leave. You can apply through USCIS instead.
Step 3: H-4 Visa Application Process (Outside the U.S.)
Step 3.1: Complete Form DS-160
Every H-4 applicant must fill out Form DS-160 online.
It asks for:
- Personal details
- Travel history
- Background information
Once you submit it, you’ll get a confirmation page with a barcode. Save and print it. You’ll need it.
Step 3.2: Pay the Visa Application Fee
After the DS-160, pay the visa fee.
The amount and payment method depend on your local embassy. You’ll need the receipt.
Step 3.3: Gather Your H-4 Application Checklist
Your documents should clearly show:
- Who you are
- Who the H-1B holder is
- And how you’re related
Your checklist should include:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months beyond your stay)
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Visa appointment confirmation
- Marriage certificate or birth certificate
- Passport photos
- H-1B holder’s visa, I-797 approval, and I-94
- Proof of financial support
- Optional but helpful: joint records or family photos
Always check your embassy’s website.
Step 3.4: Schedule the Visa Interview
Once fees are paid, schedule your interview.
Wait times vary, and slots fill up quickly, so book early.
Step 3.5: Attend the Interview
The officer wants to confirm:
- Your relationship
- The H-1B holder’s status
- Your intent
Answer the questions clearly and stick to the facts. If approved, your passport gets stamped with the H-4 visa.
Step 3.6: Enter the U.S.
With the visa stamp, you can travel. At the port of entry, a CBP officer admits you in H-4 status.
You’ll receive an electronic I-94 showing how long you can stay in the U.S.
Step 4: Applying for an H-4 Visa Inside the U.S.
If you’re already in the U.S., the process is different.
Step 4.1: File Form I-539
To change or extend status, file Form I-539 with USCIS. Children are added using Form I-539A.
This is the core of the H-4 application process inside the U.S.
Step 4.2: Attach Supporting Documents
Include:
- Proof of relationship
- Copies of passports and I-94 records
- Evidence of valid H-1B status
- Approval notices and employment proof
Incomplete filings cause delays.
Step 4.3: File Online or by Mail
You can file online or mail the application to the correct USCIS address.
Once filed, USCIS sends a receipt notice with a case number.
That’s how you track your I-539 status.
Step 4.4: Attend Biometrics
USCIS may schedule a biometrics appointment. It involves:
- Fingerprints.
- Photo.
- Quick visit.
If scheduled, attendance is mandatory.
Step 4.5: Wait for a Decision
Processing times often range from 4 to 12 months, sometimes longer.
You must maintain a lawful status the entire time. If approved, USCIS issues an approval notice and a new I-94.
And just like that, you’re in H-4 status.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is an H-4 visa?
The H-4 visa is a dependent nonimmigrant visa. It’s for spouses and unmarried children under 21 of H-category visa holders, most commonly H-1B workers. It allows eligible family members to live in the U.S. while the primary visa holder works.
2. Who can apply for an H-4 visa?
You can apply if you’re:
- The spouse of an H-1B (or other H-category) visa holder, or
- An unmarried child under 21 of the principal visa holder
And the primary visa holder must be maintaining a valid H status.
3. What is the H-4 application process?
The H-4 application process depends on where you’re applying from.
- Outside the U.S. → Apply through a U.S. embassy or consulate using Form DS-160.
- Inside the U.S. → File Form I-539 with USCIS to change or extend status
4. How long is the H-4 application timeline?
It varies.
- Consular processing: Could take a few weeks to a few months, depending on interview availability
- USCIS (Form I-539): Could take a few to several months or longer
Processing times change, so always check current estimates.
4. What documents are required for an H-4 visa?
Your H-4 application checklist usually includes:
- Valid passport
- Marriage or birth certificate
- DS-160 confirmation
- Visa fee receipt
- H-1B holder’s approval notice, visa, and I-94
- Proof of financial support
Embassies and USCIS may request additional documents.
5. Can H-4 visa holders work in the U.S.?
Most H-4 holders cannot work.
However, some spouses may apply for work authorization if the H-1B holder meets specific requirements. This is a separate process and not automatic.
6. Can H-4 visa holders study in the U.S.?
Yes. H-4 visa holders are allowed to study full-time or part-time while in a valid status.
7. Can I apply for an H-4 visa at the same time as the H-1B?
Many families apply together. The H-4 visa is tied to the approval and validity of the H-1B petition.
8. What happens if my H-1B spouse loses their job?
Your H-4 status depends on the H-1B holder maintaining a valid status.
If their status ends, your H-4 status may also be affected.
9. How do I check the status of my H-4 application?
- Consular cases: Track through your embassy or visa portal
- USCIS cases: Use your receipt number on the USCIS case status page
10. Where can I get reliable help with my H-4 visa?
You can post your questions for free on ImmigrationQuestion.com and get answers from licensed U.S. immigration attorneys.
Visit ImmigrationQuestion.com before you file.
