Content

• Steps
• Method 1 of 2: How to Obtain a Dependent Visa Outside the United States
• Method 2 of 2: How to Apply for an Extension or Change of Nonimmigrant Status in the United States
• Tips

Do you have an American H-1B visa? If you are a legally nonimmigrant worker, you can apply for a dependent visa for your children and wife / husband so they can come to you and stay until your visa expires. A dependent visa, also called an H-4, can be applied for at any time after you have agreed to an H-1B visa. In this article, you will learn how to apply for a Dependent Visa outside the United States, and how it can be extended in the United States.

Steps

Method 1 of 2: How to Obtain a Dependent Visa Outside the United States

1. 1 Make sure you get your visa. To apply for an H-4 visa on behalf of your dependents, USCIS must confirm your application for an H-1B visa. It is not necessary to have a visa ready in hand, but your application must be approved.
   • If you have not applied for an H-1B visa, please do so at the US consulate in your country. The consulate will process your application.
   • In many cases, it will be more appropriate if you and your wife (husband) are together and apply for an H-1B visa at the same time.
   • Once you have applied, you can proceed with the H4 visa application process.
2. 2 Prepare the required documents. In order to apply for an H-4 visa, you will need the following documents:
   • Copy of confirmation H-1B (Form I-797);
   • Marriage or birth certificate proving the relationship of the H-1B visa holder with his child and wife (husband);
   • A valid passport of the child or wife (husband), which expires no earlier than 6 months after the date of application;
   • Color photograph for documents;
   • Completed Nonimmigrant Visa Form (DS-160).
3. 3 Apply at the US Consulate in your country. Provide the above documents and, if necessary, additional documents required by your consulate. The time for consideration of the application may vary; check with the consulate how long you will need to wait for the approval of your application.

Method 2 of 2: How to Apply for an Extension or Change of Nonimmigrant Status in the United States

1. 1 Complete Form I-539. If you and your children or wife (husband) are already in the United States on a student or work visa, you do not need a dependent visa; You need to renew or change your nonimmigrant status in order for your entire family to legally remain in the United States. Apply for an extension or change of your status if you are legally in the United States and have a reason to extend your stay.
   • You can apply for a visa extension or change of status if you came to the United States on one type of visa, but you need to change your status to another. For example, first you came on a student visa, then you found a job in the United States.
   • Go to http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis, click "forms" and scroll down to I-539. All rooms are arranged in order. Click on the left link in section I-539. Here you can download the application or get answers to questions regarding the application process.
   • You can also order the form by mail or by phone by calling US Citizenship and Immigration Services.
   • Be prepared to pay an application fee. It will be at least $ 290.
2. 2 Submit the form to the USCIS office electronically or by mail. You may be eligible to use the electronic filing system. Also, the application can be sent by mail to the place of submission of documents.

Tips

• If your wife (husband) wants to work in the United States, an H-4 visa will not qualify her for employment. In this case, she will need to separately apply for an H-1B visa.