H-4
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      1. The White Paper for F1 Students
      2. Dependent Visas
      3. H-4

      How to Apply for H-4 EAD?

      How do H-4 holders apply for an EAD card? What materials are required?

      H-4 EAD Application Materials

      • Form I-765

      • I-797 Notice of Approval for H-4 status change( or I-94 Record)

      • Copies of all previous EAD cards (if applicable)

      • Passport biographic page

      • Marriage certificate

      • Spouse’s I-797 Notice of Approval for I-140

      • Two passport photos (2 inches x 2 inches)

      • Application fee: $520

       

      How to Submit an EAD Application

      Currently, there is no online application option for the H-4 EAD; applicants must submit their application by mail. The mailing address depends on the case number on your H-1B spouse's I-797 Notice of Action:

      • If your H-1B spouse’s most recent I-797 number starts with EAC, LIN, or MCT, mail your application to the Dallas Lockbox.

      • If your H-1B spouse’s most recent I-797 number starts with WAC, SRC, or IOE, mail your application to the Phoenix Lockbox.

      For detailed information, please refer to the USCIS website (click "Employment-based nonimmigrant"):

      H-4 EAD Mailing

      After mailing your application, you will receive a Receipt Notice and an Appointment Notice for biometrics, which includes the date and location for fingerprinting.

      The processing time for the H-4 EAD is generally 2-7 months, with no option for premium processing, so you may need to wait for an extended period. If you are changing to H-4 status within the U.S., you can choose to apply for the H-4 EAD concurrently with your status change application to save time.