H4 Visa Benefits holders are able to open bank accounts, obtain driving licenses, and work if they have been granted employment authorization documentation (EAD). Additionally, they can study at a US college or university.
The ability to work can help H4 spouses integrate into the United States and decrease feelings of isolation and loneliness. It can also help them financially support their families while waiting to immigrate to the U.S.
Family Unity
The right to family unity is a fundamental part of international human rights law. This includes the right to maintain a family unit, to reunite separated families and to respect and support the dignity of a family’s life. It is also a crucial aspect of migration and displacement.
H-4 Visa Benefits allow spouses of people with a Green Card to gain work authorization in the United States. This allows them to be financially independent and participate in society. Having a side job can give them a sense of purpose and boost morale as they wait to achieve their goal of becoming a permanent resident.
Judge Chutkan dismissed a lawsuit filed by Save Jobs USA, which argued that the federal government does not have the authority to allow spouses of H1B workers to work.
The judge cited decades of executive branch practice, as well as explicit and implicit congressional ratification of that authority. She also noted that the USCIS Electronic Immigration System is moving from a paper-based filing process to one that will be more modern and streamlined.
Work Authorization for Spouses (H4 Visa Benefits)
Despite being prohibited from working under current rules, many H-4 dependent spouses wish to pursue careers within the United States. The ability to work would provide these families with increased financial independence, allowing them to focus more on their children’s education and other important family matters.
Several employers have expressed support for this rule, noting that allowing these employees’ spouses to work can help with the retention of highly skilled workers and promote U.S. competitiveness in the global economy.
However, a few commenters have asserted that employment authorization for H-4 spouses could have negative labor market impacts. These comments have not been substantiated with empirical data. But are instead based on the premise that granting employment authorization to these spouses will increase competition for jobs. And negatively impact wages. DHS has taken into consideration these concerns but has decided not to adopt these suggestions in this final rule.
Access to U.S. Schools and Universities
The United States has many world-class universities and a booming technology and innovation scene. Studying in the US offers a great professional opportunity for H4 visa holders and allows them to break from their regular routine and develop knowledge.
However, H4 visa holders often struggle to find a balance between their work life and family life. This is especially true for young, professionally educated women who feel bored at home while their spouses are working. In addition, many of them lack the financial independence to support themselves.
In this case, studying for a degree can provide an outlet for their energy and help them build a stronger sense of purpose. Additionally, in-state tuition benefits can be an excellent money-saving option for H4 visa holders.
In order to qualify for in-state tuition, students must meet several criteria that vary from state to state. Typically, the most important requirements are evidence of a valid relationship. And proof that they have been paying taxes in their current state of residence. Moreover, it is also important to consider the length of time that H4 visa holders have been in the US prior to applying for a school.
Healthcare Benefits (H4 Visa Benefits)
H-4 visa holders enjoy many of the same benefits as citizens and permanent residents of the United States. Among them are the ability to obtain healthcare, open bank accounts, get driver’s licenses, and access credit cards and debit cards.
H-4 visa holders also have the right to work and are required to pay taxes just like other Americans. However, the process for filing taxes can be complicated and requires the help of a qualified immigration attorney to ensure that the right documents are submitted to avoid complications.
Additionally, the spouses and children of H-1B visa holders are eligible to apply for an employment authorization document (EAD). While the process can be complex, it can also provide a way for H-4 visa holders to work and contribute to their family’s finances while waiting for the green card process to finish.
However, it is important to note that working without a valid EAD is a violation of H-4 visa status and can have serious consequences. Consult Kodem Law for assistance with navigating the employment authorization process for H-4 dependents.
Cultural and Personal Growth
Whether they are the spouses or children of H visa holders. Those on an H4 Visa benefit from being exposed to a new culture, way of life and opportunities. This can also help them with their own personal growth, especially if they are able to work in the United States.
Unlike many of the spouses and children of H-1B workers who are stuck in the country’s backlogged green card process. Those on an H4 have access to employment authorization. This means they can start working and contributing to the American economy.
While exact statistics are not available, the Department of Labor shows that two thirds of H-4 EAD holders sponsored for permanent residence by their employers worked in a highly skilled occupation such as software development. Other occupations included business and finance, architecture and engineering, management, and healthcare.
Ultimately, the opportunity to work and contribute to the economy may be one of the biggest incentives for a family to move abroad. And live in a different country. However, it is not the only reason and it can become difficult for families to stay together. If they cannot meet their living costs while waiting for the green card process to progress.