On May 26, 2015, USCIS will begin accepting applications for employment authorization (work permits) from H-4 Dependent Spouses of H-1B Nonimmigrants seeking employment-based Lawful Permanent Residence (“Greencards”).

To be eligible for your work permit under this change, you must be a H-4 dependent spouse of H-1B nonimmigrants who:

• Are the principal beneficiaries of an approved Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker; or
• Have been granted H-1B status under sections 106(a) and (b) of the American Competitiveness in the Twenty-first Century Act of 2000 as amended by the 21st Century Department of Justice Appropriations Authorization Act. The Act permits H-1B nonimmigrants seeking lawful permanent residence to work and remain in the United States beyond the six-year limit on their H-1B status.

This new rule will help many doctors who have spouses on H4 visas but have not been able to work. We applaud the Obama administration for implementing this progressive legislation!

If you believe you may be eligible for a work permit under this change please contact our Sacramento, San Francisco or Santa Clara offices today at (916) 613-3553. We can advise you and prepare your application so that it is filed on May 26, 2015 (the first day USCIS will begin accepting applications).

Once USCIS approves your application and you receive your employment authorization document (work permit card), you may begin working in the United States!