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22 Dec 2022

Right after my husband’s I-140 was approved, I applied for an H-4 extension and an H-4 EAD. Those applications were submitted with my husband’s H1B extension, which was filed using premium. The USCIS approved the H1B along with my H-4 and EAD within 2 weeks. About 2 months later, though, my husband’s employer told him he would be laid off in January. He has a new job lined up, so he will remain in H1B status, but will this create problems with my H-4 EAD? Does it matter if the old employer withdraws my husband’s I-140?

Answer If one's spouse moves to a different H1B employer, this generally does not impact the H-4 status or existing EAD. Similarly, even if the employer withdraws the I-140, this does not have a direct impact on the existing H-4 EAD. However, depending on how much...

07:57 / Employment Based / FAQs / For Families / For Individuals / Nonimmigrant Family / Resident / Worker
15 Dec 2022

My wife’s H-4 EAD extension is pending. I was just offered a new position, and the company plans on filing an H1B change of employer for me. Will this create problems for my wife’s pending case?

Answer Ordinarily, an H1B petition requesting a change of employer would not impact a spouse's pending H-4 EAD extension.  (15.Dec.2022)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online services, click here. Access more FAQs here.  Copyright © 2022,...

07:02 / FAQs / For Families / H-4 Dependents / Nonimmigrant Family / Worker
08 Dec 2022

I applied for an H-4 EAD a few months ago, and that case is still pending. I understand that I cannot start working until the EAD is approved. But, am I allowed to start applying for jobs now?

Answer Immigration law does not really limit the ability of an H-4 dependent to apply for a job before the EAD is issued. So, submitting a job application typically would not be considered a violation of H-4 status, so long as the H-4 spouse does not...

07:27 / FAQs / For Families / Nonimmigrant Family / Worker
17 Nov 2022

I am in H-4 status working based on my EAD. I was recently laid off. Am I allowed to apply for unemployment benefits?

Answer Eligibility for unemployment benefits is based on state law, not immigration law. If you qualify for unemployment benefits, claiming such benefits typically would have no immigration impact. (16.Nov.2022)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE online...

08:04 / FAQs / For Families / For Individuals / Nonimmigrant Family / Worker
15 Nov 2022

Serious Immigration Consequences for Marijuana, Despite State Law Changes

Legalization or decriminalization of marijuana at the state level can mislead noncitizens into thinking using marijuana in accordance with state law is legal. Marijuana, however, is a controlled substance under federal law. Therefore, the use, sale, purchase, or even the mere possession of marijuana, in...

07:25 / Employment Based / Family Based / For Families / For Individuals / NewsBrief / Resident / Student / Travel / Visitor / Worker
10 Nov 2022

My H1B extension was approved, but my wife’s H-4 extension is still pending. We are getting ready to file our I-485 applications. Does she have to wait for her H-4 extension to be approved before applying?

Answer The general requirement is that a foreign national must be in valid status at the time an I-485 application is filed. If an H-4 dependent timely applies for an extension of status, once the I-94 expires, she remains in a period of authorized stay while...

06:28 / FAQs / For Families / For Individuals / Nonimmigrant Family / Resident / Worker