Following Donald Trump’s electoral victory on Wednesday, over 100,000 Indian families are now concerned about the potential revocation of work permits for H-4 dependent spouses under the President-elect’s ‘America First’ policy.
An H-4 dependent visa is granted to spouses of H-1B visa holders. Eligible H-4 dependents can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), allowing them to work in the U.S.
The EAD not only provides financial independence but also enables H-4 visa holders to obtain a Social Security number, open a bank account, and get a driver’s license, facilitating integration into American society, members of the Indian diaspora told TOI.
During his previous term, Trump introduced the ‘Buy American, Hire American’ Executive Order, which included measures to revoke work authorization for H-4 dependent spouses.
However, as the rule was close to being finalized, the Biden administration intervened, and the proposal was officially withdrawn in January 2021.
Spouses of H-1B visa holders are eligible for H-4 dependent status if they are legally married to the H-1B holder, who is responsible for applying for the spouse’s H-4 visa.
To apply for H-4 status, the spouse must provide documentation such as a marriage certificate, joint bank statements, joint tax returns, joint property deeds, and a valid passport.
