H-4 visa holders across the United States 🇺🇸 are facing much longer waits for their H4 EAD (Employment Authorization Document) approvals in 2025. The delays, which now stretch from four months to over a year in some cases, began after a key DHS Settlement Agreement expired in January. These changes have left many families uncertain about their work status and financial stability.
The most critical shift happened on January 18, 2025, when the Department of Homeland Security’s settlement agreement with immigrant advocates ended. This agreement, in place since 2023, had required U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to process H-4 EAD applications together with related H-1B and H-4 petitions. By bundling these applications, USCIS could make decisions faster and help families avoid gaps in work authorization. Now, with the agreement expired and no renewal expected, H-4 EAD applications must be processed separately. This change has caused significant backlogs at USCIS service centers, with many applicants reporting delays of six to twelve months.
Why Are H4 EAD Processing Times So High in 2025?
Several factors have combined to create the current situation:
1. Expiration of the DHS Settlement Agreement
The 2023 DHS Settlement Agreement was a direct response to lawsuits over slow H-4 EAD processing. It required USCIS to bundle H-4 EAD applications with H-1B and H-4 petitions, speeding up decisions. When this agreement expired on January 18, 2025, USCIS returned to its old way of handling these cases. Now, H-4 EAD applications are placed in a separate line, or queue, and are no longer processed together with H-1B or H-4 petitions. This has led to a sharp increase in wait times, as each application must be reviewed on its own.
2. Increased Application Volume and Service Center Backlogs
The number of people applying for H4 EAD remains high. Different USCIS service centers handle different numbers of cases, and some are much busier than others. For example, the Texas Service Center now reports H-4 EAD processing times of five to seven months, while other centers can take up to a year. Because applications are no longer bundled, the queue for H-4 EADs grows longer every month. This means more people are waiting, and the wait itself keeps getting longer.
3. No Premium Processing for H-4 EAD
Unlike some other visa categories, such as H-1B or O-1, H-4 EAD applicants cannot pay for premium processing. Premium processing is a service where, for an extra fee, USCIS promises to make a decision within 15 days. For H-4 EAD, this option is only available in very limited situations, such as when the application is bundled with a premium H-1B petition. Most H-4 EAD renewals must use standard processing, which is much slower.
4. Requests for Evidence (RFEs) and Application Completeness
If an H-4 EAD application is missing information or documents, USCIS will send a Request for Evidence (RFE). This means the applicant must provide more details before a decision is made. RFEs can add weeks or even months to the process. To avoid this, applicants are strongly advised to submit complete and accurate applications from the start.
5. New Administration Policy Changes
The current administration has signaled a more restrictive approach to employment-based immigration. This has led to slower processing and more uncertainty about future policy changes. Many immigration lawyers say this shift has made it even harder for H-4 EAD holders to plan their work and family lives.
What Does This Mean for H-4 EAD Holders and Their Families?
The impact of these delays is being felt by thousands of families across the United States 🇺🇸. Many H-4 EAD holders are highly skilled professionals who support their families through their jobs. When their work authorization expires and their renewal is still pending, they must stop working. This can lead to sudden loss of income, health insurance, and even career opportunities.
Automatic Extensions: Some Relief, But Not for Everyone
In December 2024, the Department of Homeland Security issued a new rule to help H-4 EAD holders facing long waits. The rule extended the automatic work authorization period for people who file their EAD renewals on time. Instead of the old 180-day extension, eligible applicants now get up to 540 days of automatic work authorization while their renewal is pending. However, this extension only lasts until the H-4 I-94 (arrival/departure record) expires. If the I-94 expires before the 540 days are up, the work authorization ends, and the person must stop working.
This rule is in effect through at least September 2025 and provides some relief for those who file early and have valid I-94s. Still, many families find themselves in a tough spot if their I-94 expires before their new EAD is approved.
Practical Steps for H-4 EAD Applicants in 2025
Given the current environment, experts recommend several steps to reduce the risk of employment gaps:
- File Early: USCIS allows H-4 EAD renewal applications to be filed up to 180 days before the current EAD expires. Filing as early as possible gives the best chance of avoiding a gap.
- Submit a Complete Application: Double-check all forms and documents before sending them to USCIS. Incomplete applications are the main reason for RFEs, which can add months to the process.
- Monitor Your Case Online: Use the USCIS case status tool to track your application and respond quickly if you receive an RFE.
- Know Your I-94 Expiration Date: The automatic extension only lasts until your I-94 expires. Make sure you understand when your I-94 will end and plan accordingly.
- Consult an Immigration Attorney: If you have questions or face unusual circumstances, a qualified immigration lawyer can help you avoid mistakes and delays.
Current H-4 EAD Processing Times by USCIS Service Center (2025 Estimates)
Processing times vary widely depending on the USCIS service center handling the case:
- Texas Service Center: 5 to 7 months
- Other Centers: 4 to 12 months
These times can change based on how many applications each center receives and how many staff are available. For the most up-to-date information, applicants should check the USCIS Processing Times page.
Background: How Did We Get Here?
The 2023 DHS Settlement Agreement was a major win for H-4 EAD holders. It came after years of complaints and lawsuits about slow processing and job losses. By requiring USCIS to bundle H-4 EAD applications with H-1B and H-4 petitions, the agreement helped thousands of families avoid work gaps. However, the agreement was always meant to be temporary. When it expired in January 2025, USCIS went back to its old system, which is slower and less efficient.
At the same time, the policy environment has become more restrictive. The new administration has signaled that it will take a tougher stance on employment-based immigration, which has led to even longer waits and more uncertainty for H-4 EAD holders.
Expert Opinions and Stakeholder Perspectives
Immigration attorneys and advocates are sounding the alarm about the impact of these delays. Many say that without premium processing or a new bundling agreement, the situation will only get worse. “We’re seeing more clients lose their jobs or have to take unpaid leave because their EAD renewals are stuck in processing,” said one attorney. “It’s a real hardship for families who rely on two incomes.”
Legal experts also warn that the lack of premium processing for H-4 EADs is a major problem. “If USCIS offered premium processing for these applications, many of the backlogs could be cleared up quickly,” said another lawyer. “But right now, families have no choice but to wait.”
Some advocacy groups are pushing for policy reforms. They want USCIS to bring back bundling or introduce premium processing for H-4 EADs. Until that happens, they say, delays and employment gaps will continue.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for H-4 EAD in 2025
If you are an H-4 visa holder and want to apply for or renew your EAD, here’s what you need to do:
- Check Your Eligibility: Make sure you are on H-4 status and your H-1B spouse meets the requirements (such as having an approved I-140 or an H-1B extension beyond six years).
- Prepare Form I-765: This is the official application for an Employment Authorization Document. You can find the latest version of Form I-765 here.
- Gather Supporting Documents: These may include your H-4 approval notice, your spouse’s H-1B approval, proof of marriage, and your I-94 record.
- File Your Application: Send your completed Form I-765 and supporting documents to the correct USCIS service center. You can file up to 180 days before your current EAD expires.
- Wait for USCIS Processing: Your application will be placed in line at the service center. Processing times vary, so check the USCIS Processing Times page for updates.
- Respond to RFEs Promptly: If USCIS asks for more information, respond as quickly as possible to avoid further delays.
- Receive Your EAD Card: Once approved, USCIS will mail your new EAD card to you.
- Automatic Extension: If you filed your renewal on time, you may be eligible for an automatic extension of up to 540 days, but only until your I-94 expires.
What Can Be Done to Improve the Situation?
Many experts and advocacy groups are calling for changes to help H-4 EAD holders. Some possible solutions include:
- Reinstating Bundling: If USCIS goes back to bundling H-4 EAD applications with H-1B and H-4 petitions, processing times could drop quickly.
- Introducing Premium Processing: Allowing H-4 EAD applicants to pay for faster service would help clear backlogs and reduce employment gaps.
- Policy Reforms: Clearer rules and more resources for USCIS service centers could help speed up decisions and reduce uncertainty.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the expiration of the DHS Settlement Agreement and the lack of premium processing have created a perfect storm for H-4 EAD applicants in 2025. The site notes that delays are now the norm, not the exception, and urges applicants to plan ahead and file early.
Looking Ahead: What Should H-4 EAD Holders Expect?
There is no sign that the DHS Settlement Agreement will be renewed or that premium processing will be introduced for H-4 EADs in 2025. Processing times are likely to remain high through at least the end of the year. Advocacy efforts continue, but for now, applicants should focus on filing early, submitting complete applications, and monitoring their cases closely.
Key Takeaways for H-4 EAD Applicants in 2025
- Expect Delays: Processing times of 4 to 12 months are now common.
- File Early: Submit your renewal as soon as you are allowed (up to 180 days before expiration).
- Check Your I-94: The automatic extension only lasts until your I-94 expires.
- Stay Informed: Monitor your case online and respond quickly to any USCIS requests.
- Seek Help if Needed: Immigration attorneys can provide guidance for complex cases.
For more information and the latest updates, visit the USCIS official H-4 EAD page.
In summary, the sharp increase in H-4 EAD processing times in 2025 is due to the end of the DHS Settlement Agreement, high application volumes, lack of premium processing, and stricter immigration policies. Delays of 6–12 months are now common, and many applicants face employment gaps. Filing early and submitting complete applications are the best ways to reduce the risk of delays. Families affected by these changes should stay informed and consider seeking legal advice to protect their work authorization and financial security.
Learn Today
H-4 EAD → Employment Authorization Document allowing H-4 visa holders to work legally in the U.S.
DHS Settlement Agreement → A 2023 agreement that bundled H-4 EAD applications with H-1B and H-4 petitions to speed processing.
USCIS → United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, agency managing immigration benefits and applications processing.
Premium Processing → An expedited USCIS service promising a decision within 15 days for an additional fee.
Request for Evidence (RFE) → A USCIS notice asking for more information or documents to complete an application review.
This Article in a Nutshell
H-4 visa holders face severe Employment Authorization delays in 2025 due to a key DHS agreement’s expiration. Processing times now spike from four months to over a year. Without premium processing, families encounter financial risks. Early filing and complete applications are essential to avoid work gaps caused by these backlogs.
— By VisaVerge.com
