H4 EAD Processing Time and H4 EAD Premium Processing Time

If you're applying for an H4 EAD, you may be wondering how long it will take to process your application. H4 EAD processing times can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the volume of applications received, the workload of USCIS officers, and any changes in immigration policies. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into H4 EAD processing times and everything you need to know about them.

What is an H4 EAD?

First, let's define what an H4 EAD is. H4 is a dependent visa category that allows the spouse of an H1B visa holder to live and work in the United States. An H4 EAD (Employment Authorization Document) is a legal document that allows H4 visa holders to work in the US while they are waiting for their green card application to be processed.

How long does it take to process an H4 EAD application?

The processing time for an H4 EAD application can vary from a few weeks to several months. According to USCIS, the current processing time for H4 EAD applications is around 4-6 months. However, this is just an estimate, and processing times can vary depending on a number of factors.

Factors that can affect H4 EAD processing times

There are several factors that can affect H4 EAD processing times. These include:

Volume of applications received

The volume of H4 EAD applications received by USCIS can affect processing times. If there are a large number of applications to process, it can take longer for USCIS officers to review each one.

Workload of USCIS officers

The workload of USCIS officers can also impact H4 EAD processing times. If officers are dealing with a high volume of applications, it can take longer for them to review and process each one.

Changes in immigration policies

Changes in immigration policies can also affect H4 EAD processing times. If there are changes to the regulations or requirements for H4 EADs, USCIS officers may need to spend more time reviewing applications and making sure that they comply with the new policies.

Background Check

The USCIS conducts background check on all applicants, which can also affect processing times. If there are any issues or red flags in the background check, the application may be delayed or denied.

Request for additional information

If USCIS officers need additional information or documentation to process an H4 EAD application, it can delay the processing time. Applicants should make sure that they provide all of the required information and documentation when submitting their application to minimize the risk of delays.

How to check the status of your H4 EAD application

If you have submitted an H4 EAD application, you can check the status of your application online through the USCIS website. You will need your receipt number, which can be found on your receipt notice or other correspondence from USCIS.

Tips for a faster H4 EAD processing time

While there is no guaranteed way to speed up H4 EAD processing times, there are some tips that may help:

Submit a complete and accurate application

Make sure that your application is complete and accurate before submitting it. This can help minimize the risk of USCIS officers needing to request additional information or documentation, which can delay processing times.

Use premium processing

USCIS offers premium processing for certain types of visas, including H1B visas. Premium processing guarantees that USCIS will process your application within 15 days for an additional fee. However, premium processing is not available for H4 EAD applications.

Follow up with USCIS

If your application has been pending for more than the estimated processing time, you can follow up with USCIS to check the status of your application. USCIS offers a variety of options for contacting them, including phone, email, and online inquiry.

H4 EAD Premium Processing

If you are an H-4 visa holder who is interested in obtaining an EAD, you may be wondering about the premium processing option. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about H4 EAD premium processing.

1. What is H4 EAD premium processing?

Premium processing is a service provided by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows applicants to expedite the processing of their applications. Premium processing guarantees that USCIS will review the application within 15 calendar days of receiving the request.

2. How much does H4 EAD premium processing cost?

As of April 2023, the fee for H4 EAD premium processing is $2,500.

3. What are the benefits of H4 EAD premium processing?

The main benefit of H4 EAD premium processing is that it speeds up the processing time of the EAD application. USCIS guarantees that they will process the application within 15 calendar days of receiving the request. This is particularly useful if you need the EAD quickly for work or travel purposes.

4. How long does H4 EAD premium processing take?

USCIS guarantees that they will process the H4 EAD premium processing application within 15 calendar days of receiving the request.

5. How to apply for H4 EAD premium processing?

To apply for H4 EAD premium processing, you must complete Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service. You must include the form with your EAD application and submit it to the USCIS service center that is processing your application.

6. What documents are required for H4 EAD premium processing?

The documents required for H4 EAD premium processing are the same as the regular EAD application. You will need to submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, along with supporting documents such as your passport, visa, and marriage certificate.

7. Can I expedite H4 EAD premium processing?

Yes, you can expedite H4 EAD premium processing by using the premium processing service. USCIS guarantees that they will process the application within 15 calendar days of receiving the request.

8. What happens after H4 EAD premium processing is approved?

After H4 EAD premium processing is approved, you will receive your EAD card in the mail. You can then use the EAD card to work for any employer in the US without any restrictions.

9. Can I travel outside of the US during H4 EAD premium processing?

Yes, you can travel outside of the US during H4 EAD premium processing. However, you must ensure that you have all the necessary documents and that you do not miss any appointments or deadlines related to your application.

10. What happens if H4 EAD premium processing is denied?

If H4 EAD premium processing is denied, USCIS will refund the premium processing fee and continue to process your application as a regular EAD application. You will receive a notice explaining the reason for the denial and any options for appeal.

11. How can I check the status of H4 EAD premium processing?

You can check the status of H4 EAD premium processing online using the USCIS Case Status Online tool. You will need your receipt number to check the status.

12. How to renew H4 EAD premium processing?

To renew H4 EAD premium processing, you must file a new Form I-765 along with supporting documents and the premium processing fee. You can file the renewal application up to 180 days before your current EAD expires.

13. Can I work immediately after H4 EAD premium processing is approved?

Yes, you can work immediately after H4 EAD premium processing is approved. You can start working for any employer in the US without any restrictions as soon as you receive your EAD card in the mail.

Conclusion

In summary, H4 EAD processing times can vary depending on a number of factors, including the volume of applications received, the workload of USCIS officers, and any changes in immigration policies. The current estimated processing time for H4 EAD applications is around 4-6 months. However, applicants can take steps to minimize processing times, such as submitting a complete and accurate application and following up with USCIS if their application is pending for longer than the estimated processing time.

If you're planning to apply for an H4 EAD, it's important to be patient and plan accordingly. Make sure to submit your application as early as possible and be prepared for potential delays in processing times.