The H4 EAD (Employment Authorization Document) form is a crucial document for the spouses of H-1B visa holders, allowing them to work in the United States. Filling out the form correctly is essential to avoid delays or rejection. In this article, we will guide you through the 5 steps to fill out the H4 EAD form accurately.
Understanding the H4 EAD Form
Before we dive into the steps, it's essential to understand the purpose of the H4 EAD form. The form is used by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to grant employment authorization to the spouses of H-1B visa holders. The form is typically filed concurrently with the H-1B visa application or as a separate application.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
To fill out the H4 EAD form correctly, you will need to gather the required documents. These documents include:
- A copy of your H-1B visa holder's petition (Form I-129)
- A copy of your H-1B visa holder's approval notice (Form I-797)
- A copy of your passport
- A copy of your H-4 visa (if applicable)
- A copy of your marriage certificate
- A copy of your birth certificate (if you have dependents)
Make sure you have all the required documents before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Fill Out Form I-765
The H4 EAD form is also known as Form I-765. You can download the form from the USCIS website or fill it out online. The form requires you to provide personal and biographical information, including your name, date of birth, and address.
Step 3: Complete the Eligibility Category
The eligibility category is a critical part of the H4 EAD form. You will need to select the correct category that applies to your situation. The categories include:
- (c)(26) - Spouse of an H-1B visa holder
- (c)(27) - Dependent of an H-1B visa holder
Make sure you select the correct category to avoid delays or rejection.
Step 4: Attach Supporting Documents
Once you have completed the form, you will need to attach the supporting documents. These documents include:
- A copy of your H-1B visa holder's petition (Form I-129)
- A copy of your H-1B visa holder's approval notice (Form I-797)
- A copy of your passport
- A copy of your H-4 visa (if applicable)
- A copy of your marriage certificate
- A copy of your birth certificate (if you have dependents)
Make sure you attach all the required documents to avoid delays or rejection.
Step 5: Submit the Form
Once you have completed the form and attached the supporting documents, you can submit the form to the USCIS. You can submit the form online or by mail. If you submit the form online, you will need to create an account and upload the required documents. If you submit the form by mail, you will need to send it to the address listed on the USCIS website.
Conclusion
Filling out the H4 EAD form correctly is essential to avoid delays or rejection. By following the 5 steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your application is processed smoothly. Remember to gather the required documents, fill out Form I-765, complete the eligibility category, attach supporting documents, and submit the form to the USCIS.
What is the H4 EAD form used for?
+The H4 EAD form is used to grant employment authorization to the spouses of H-1B visa holders.
What documents are required to fill out the H4 EAD form?
+The required documents include a copy of your H-1B visa holder's petition (Form I-129), a copy of your H-1B visa holder's approval notice (Form I-797), a copy of your passport, a copy of your H-4 visa (if applicable), a copy of your marriage certificate, and a copy of your birth certificate (if you have dependents).
How do I submit the H4 EAD form?
+You can submit the form online or by mail. If you submit the form online, you will need to create an account and upload the required documents. If you submit the form by mail, you will need to send it to the address listed on the USCIS website.