6 Essential Steps to File Your H-4 EAD Application in 2025

Key Takeaways

• H-4 EAD process separated from H-1B in January 2025, causing processing delays over six months.
• Applicants must file by mail; no premium processing is available for H-4 EAD applications.
• Eligibility requires valid H-4 status and spouse’s approved I-140 or extended H-1B status.

The journey to secure an H-4 EAD in 2025 can feel overwhelming, especially with recent changes that have made the process longer and more complex. This guide breaks down every step, explains what to expect, and offers practical advice to help you manage each stage with confidence. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing your work permit, understanding the process and planning ahead is key to avoiding unnecessary stress and work interruptions.

Understanding the H-4 EAD and Recent Changes

The H-4 EAD is a work permit that allows certain H-4 visa holders—spouses of H-1B visa holders—to work legally in the United States 🇺🇸. Not all H-4 visa holders qualify. You must meet specific requirements tied to your spouse’s H-1B status. In January 2025, a major policy change separated (or “unbundled”) the H-4 EAD process from the H-1B and H-4 visa approval process. This change has led to significant processing delays, with many applicants waiting more than six months for approval. Unlike some other visa types, there is no premium processing option for H-4 EAD, so you cannot pay extra to speed up your application.

Let’s walk through the entire process, step by step, so you know exactly what to do, when to do it, and what to expect from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) at each stage.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Before you start gathering documents or filling out forms, you need to make sure you qualify for the H-4 EAD. Here’s what you need:

• You must be in valid H-4 status. This means you are the spouse of an H-1B visa holder, and your own H-4 visa and I-94 record are current.
• Your H-1B spouse must meet one of these conditions:
  • They have an approved Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker), or
  • They have been granted H-1B status beyond the standard six-year limit under the American Competitiveness in the Twenty-First Century Act (AC21) rules.

If you’re not sure about your spouse’s status or your own eligibility, it’s wise to check with an immigration attorney or review your documents carefully. If your spouse’s I-140 has not been approved or their H-1B has not been extended beyond six years, you are not eligible for the H-4 EAD.

What to Expect: This step is ongoing. You should check your eligibility every time you apply or renew, as your spouse’s status or your own visa situation may change.

Step 2: Prepare All Required Documents

Once you’ve confirmed you’re eligible, it’s time to gather the documents you’ll need for your application. Missing or incorrect documents are a common reason for delays, so double-check everything before you move forward.

You will need:

• Completed Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Always use the latest version, which you can find on the official USCIS Form I-765 page.
• Copy of your current H-4 visa and I-94 record. This proves your legal status in the United States 🇺🇸.
• Copy of your spouse’s H-1B approval notice (Form I-797).
• Proof of your spouse’s approved Form I-140 or evidence of their H-1B extension beyond six years.
• Two passport-style photos that meet USCIS requirements. Check the USCIS photo guidelines for details.
• Filing fee payment. As of 2025, the fee is about $410, but always check the USCIS fee schedule for updates.
• Copy of your passport’s biographic page.
• Copies of any previous EAD cards if you are renewing.

What to Expect: Gathering documents can take a few days to a week, depending on how quickly you can access everything. If you’re missing anything, request it as soon as possible to avoid delays.

Step 3: Complete and Review Form I-765

Form I-765 is the main application for your H-4 EAD. Filling it out correctly is crucial. Mistakes or missing information can lead to a Request for Evidence (RFE), which will slow down your application.

Key points to remember:

• Use the correct eligibility category: For H-4 EAD, this is (c)(26). Enter this code in the appropriate section of the form.
• Double-check all information: Make sure your name, date of birth, and other details match your supporting documents exactly.
• Review the form carefully: Even small errors can cause problems. If you’re unsure about any section, refer to the USCIS instructions for Form I-765 or consult an immigration professional.

What to Expect: Completing and reviewing the form usually takes a few hours. Take your time and don’t rush—accuracy is more important than speed at this stage.

Step 4: File Your Application

Once your form and documents are ready, it’s time to send your application to USCIS. As of 2025, you must file by mail—online filing is not available for H-4 EAD applications.

How to file:

• Mail your complete application package (Form I-765, supporting documents, photos, and fee payment) to the correct USCIS service center. The address can change, so always check the USCIS H-4 EAD filing addresses before sending.
• Use a trackable mailing service (like USPS Priority Mail or FedEx) so you can confirm delivery.
• Keep copies of everything you send, including your forms, documents, and mailing receipt.

What to Expect: Mailing your application is straightforward, but make sure you use the correct address and include all required items. Missing documents or sending to the wrong address can cause major delays.

Step 5: Receive Receipt Notice and (If Needed) Biometrics Appointment

After USCIS receives your application, they will send you a receipt notice (Form I-797C). This notice confirms that your application is in the system and provides a receipt number you can use to check your case status online.

What happens next:

• Receipt notice: You should get this within 2 to 4 weeks after mailing your application.
• Biometrics appointment: For most H-4 EAD applicants, biometrics (fingerprinting) is not required. However, USCIS may request additional information or documents. If you receive a Request for Evidence (RFE), respond as soon as possible to avoid further delays.

What to Expect: This stage is mostly about waiting. Keep your receipt notice safe, as you’ll need the receipt number to track your case.

Step 6: Wait for Processing and Receive Your EAD Card

This is often the hardest part—waiting for USCIS to process your application. Due to the policy change in January 2025, H-4 EAD applications are now processed separately from H-1B and H-4 visa petitions. This has led to processing delays, with most cases taking 4 to 6 months or even longer.

Key points:

• No premium processing: You cannot pay extra to speed up your H-4 EAD application.
• Processing times vary: Times depend on the USCIS service center’s workload and the number of applications received.
• Automatic extensions: If you are renewing your EAD, you can file up to 6 months before your current card expires. However, your work authorization cannot extend beyond your H-4 I-94 expiration date. This means you could face a gap in work authorization even if you file on time.

What to Expect: Be prepared for a long wait. Check your case status online using the USCIS Case Status tool. When your application is approved, USCIS will mail your EAD card to the address you provided.

Managing Processing Delays and Work Authorization Gaps

The biggest challenge for H-4 EAD applicants in 2025 is the processing delays. Because premium processing is not available and automatic extensions are limited, many applicants face gaps in their ability to work. Here’s how you can manage these risks:

• File as early as possible: For renewals, submit your application up to 6 months before your current EAD expires.
• Monitor your I-94 expiration: Your work authorization cannot go beyond your H-4 status. Make sure your I-94 is valid for the entire period you want to work.
• Respond quickly to any USCIS requests: If you receive an RFE, gather the requested documents and respond immediately.
• Stay informed: Check the USCIS Processing Times page regularly for updates.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, many applicants have experienced work interruptions because of these delays. Immigration attorneys recommend careful planning and early filing to reduce the risk of losing work authorization.

Other Important Considerations

• No premium processing: Unlike the H-1B visa, there is no way to expedite your H-4 EAD application.
• Policy changes: The end of the DHS settlement agreement in January 2025 has removed some protections that previously helped prevent work gaps.
• Visa Bulletin: The timing of your spouse’s I-140 approval and the current Visa Bulletin can affect your eligibility for the H-4 EAD. Stay up to date with the Visa Bulletin to understand how it might impact your case.
• Seek professional help: If your situation is complicated or you’re unsure about any part of the process, consult an immigration attorney.

Summary Table: H-4 EAD Filing Timeline and Processing (2025)

What Should You Do Next?

• Start early: Begin gathering documents and preparing your application as soon as you’re eligible, especially if you’re renewing.
• Stay organized: Keep copies of all your documents and track your application status online.
• Plan for delays: Talk to your employer about possible work gaps and have a backup plan in case your EAD is delayed.
• Stay informed: Regularly check the USCIS H-4 EAD page for updates on policies, forms, and processing times.

Final Thoughts

Applying for or renewing an H-4 EAD in 2025 requires patience, careful planning, and attention to detail. The process is more complicated than in previous years, mainly because of longer processing times and the lack of premium processing. By following each step carefully, filing as early as possible, and staying informed about policy changes, you can give yourself the best chance of a smooth application process.

If you have questions or face unusual challenges, don’t hesitate to seek help from an immigration attorney or trusted advocacy group. The rules and timelines can change, and professional advice can help you avoid costly mistakes.

For more detailed information and the latest updates, always refer to the official USCIS website. This is the best source for current forms, fees, and instructions.

By understanding each step and preparing for possible delays, you can manage your H-4 EAD journey with greater confidence and less stress.

Learn Today

H-4 EAD → Employment authorization document for spouses of H-1B visa holders allowing legal work in the US.
Form I-765 → Application form used to request an Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.
I-140 → Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker signifying eligibility for permanent residency in the U.S.
Premium Processing → An expedited USCIS service that speeds up certain visa application reviews for a fee.
Request for Evidence (RFE) → A USCIS notice requesting additional documents or information to decide an application.

This Article in a Nutshell

The 2025 H-4 EAD process has become more complex with longer delays and no premium options. Understanding eligibility, preparing documents accurately, and filing early are vital. Applicants face a 4–6 month wait and must carefully track status to avoid work authorization gaps and interruptions in employment.
— By VisaVerge.com