Do you have an H1B visa, and your job has ended? Is your H1B visa likely to expire? Do you have little time to stay in the United States with your family? Many people lose their jobs. The situation is worse for H-1B visa holders, who lose their right to live in the U.S. These people should identify new ways to stay in the U.S., or they will be removed. The H-1B to H4 change of status procedure is important, and Techfetch H1B guides you throughout the process, being an excellent U.S. immigration service provider.
You can receive a dependent visa to stay with your family. Your spouse's H1B visa may allow you to switch to an H4 dependent visa. You can change visa status if your spouse has a valid H1B visa and you are legally married to them. However, you cannot work once your H4 visa is granted.
A Brief on How to Transfer from H-1B to H4
When your employment contract ends, your H1B visa will also end. The visa expires after reaching the 6-year limit. Start changing your status two to three months before your H1B visa expires, as the changing status might take two to three months on average.
Many USCIS forms require a fee. I-539 costs $370 to file. You may also pay $85 for screening biometrics, as all applicants must pass this test. Make sure you also budget for getting help from the best immigration counselor. Compared to moving back home, these amounts are substantially lower.
Essential Documents to be Filed to Change from H-1B to H4
Filing the correct documents with USCIS is essential to get started. The change from H-1B to H4 visa requires these documents:
I-539 Form - Change the status of the Non-immigrant holder.
Passport copies ( including your spouse's)
Notice of approval of your H-1B visa.
I-94 Form - your last record of departure or arrival.
Pay stubs for the previous year for both your partner and you.
Photocopy of your spouse's H1 work visa.
Marriage certificate as proof of marriage.
H-1B visas don't expire when H4 visas are issued. However, you cannot work until the H4 visa is accepted. You may be able to work using the H4 Employment Authorization Document. You may need to give in more proof. It is recommended to consult a professional immigration counselor. They can tell you the criteria and processes for an H4 visa.
Learn What Happens if Your H-1B to H4 Application Gets Denied
A status change from H-1B to H4 takes two to three months. The period is as long as your case is uncomplicated and you have provided the correct documentation. A USCIS RFE can delay processing. USCIS may need more information. You must provide the details, or USCIS will not offer approval
Rejected status changes from H-1B to H4 are no fun. You can look for alternatives like:
Apply for a new visa before the existing visa expires. Get help from any immigration counselor on which visa to apply for.
Return home if you do not have a visa that is valid.
If you don't have a legal visa, you may face deportation. USCIS has these details on file; you will be eliminated if you don't leave.
The Bottom-line
Change from H-1B to H4 if your spouse is an H1 holder. This can help you obtain a valid U.S. visa. You cannot work with an H4, but you can acquire an H4 Employment Authorization Document which will get you a job. If possible, get help from any immigration counselor. They can tell you the criteria and processes for an H4 visa. Techfetch H1B guides through H-1B to H4 change of status procedures, being a premium service provider to make your entire immigration journey a cakewalk.
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