US H-4 Visa – Dependent Visa for Spouse & Children

To qualify for a US H4 Dependent Visa, applicants must meet specific eligibility conditions set by US immigration authorities.

• You are the spouse of a valid H1B visa holder
• You are an unmarried child under 21 years of age
• The primary H1B visa holder maintains valid legal status in the US
• You can prove a genuine family relationship

Submitting the correct documentation ensures a strong and credible H4 Visa application.

Required Documents Include:

1. Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2. H4 visa application form (DS-160 confirmation)
3. Visa appointment confirmation
4. Passport-size photographs (US visa standards)
5. Marriage certificate (for spouse)
6. Birth certificate (for children)
7. H1B approval notice (Form I-797)
8. Copy of primary applicant’s passport & visa
9. Proof of relationship

Applying for a US H4 Visa involves multiple steps that must be followed carefully.

1. Complete the DS-160 online visa application form
2. Pay the applicable H4 visa fee
3. Schedule biometric and visa interview appointments
4. Attend biometric appointment (fingerprints & photo)
5. Attend visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate
6. Await visa decision and passport delivery

The H4 Visa processing time is 15 - 30 working days.

1. Interview wait times vary by location
2. Visa decisions are typically made within a few working days after the interview
3. Passport return usually takes 3–7 business days post-approval

EAD (Employment Authorization Document)

The H4 EAD allows eligible H4 visa holders to work legally in the United States.

Who Can Apply for H4 EAD?

1. Spouses of H1B holders with an approved I-140 petition, or
2. H1B holders granted status under AC21 extensions

Benefits of H4 EAD:

1. Legal employment in the US
2. Freedom to work for any employer or start a business
3. No job sponsorship required

GreenTree Immigration is a trusted name in US dependent visa services, offering expert-led, transparent, and personalized assistance.

1. Dedicated US visa specialists
2. Accurate documentation & compliance checks
3. End-to-end application support
4. Interview preparation assistance
5. Timely updates and ethical guidance
6. Experience-backed advice
7. Client-first approach
8. High success rate

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a US Dependent Visa? ✈

A US Dependent Visa allows the spouse and children of a primary visa holder (such as H1B, F1, or J1) to live in the United States for the same duration as the primary visa holder.

How long is a US Dependent Visa valid? ✈

The visa is valid for the same duration as the primary visa holder’s status in the US. If the primary visa holder extends their stay, dependents must also extend theirs.

Can I travel in and out of the US on a US Dependent Visa? ✈

Yes. As long as your visa stamp and status are valid, you can travel in and out of the US freely.

Who is eligible for a US Dependent Visa? ✈

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age are eligible to apply for a US Dependent Visa, provided the primary applicant holds a valid visa status

Can I study on a US Dependent Visa? ✈

Yes. Most US Dependent Visa categories allow dependents to enroll in full-time or part-time academic programs without needing a separate student visa.