In a recent policy change, the United States government has decided to grant work permits to Indian spouses of H1B visa holders. This decision is a significant relief to many Indian families in the US, as it allows for a more stable and financially secure life. Read on to know more on rajkotupdates.news : america granted work permit for indian spouse of h-1 b visa holders
What is the H-1B Spouse Ruling?
The H-1B spouse ruling refers to a regulation that allows eligible spouses of H-1B visa holders to work legally in the United States under certain conditions. This work authorization is granted through the H-4 visa, a dependent visa category for the family members of H-1B visa holders.
In May 2015, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) introduced a rule that allowed certain H-4 visa holders to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). To be eligible for the EAD, the H-1B visa holder must either:
- Have an approved Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, or
- Have been granted an extension of their H-1B status under the American Competitiveness in the Twenty-first Century Act (AC21) due to a pending employment-based green card application.
The H-4 EAD rule aimed to help retain skilled foreign workers in the U.S. and ease the financial and personal burdens faced by families waiting for their green cards. However, the rule has faced criticism and legal challenges, with some arguing that it takes away job opportunities from U.S. citizens. There have been discussions and proposals to rescind the H-4 EAD rule, but as of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021 remains in effect. Please check the USCIS website or consult an immigration attorney for the latest information. You will thus get to know about H1B visa latest news today.
Background: rajkotupdates.news : america granted work permit for indian spouse of h-1 b visa holders
The H1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in specialty occupations requiring technical expertise. Indian nationals constitute a large percentage of the H1B visa recipients, with many professionals working in the technology, healthcare, and research sectors. It is important to enquire about H1B dependent visa.
Before this policy change, spouses of H1B visa holders were granted the H4 visa, which allowed them to live in the US but not work. This often resulted in financial challenges and career stagnation for the spouses, who were typically highly skilled individuals in their own right.
Policy Change
The new policy allows H4 visa holders to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and work in the United States. This change not only benefits Indian spouses but also addresses the broader issue of talent retention in the US. This move will likely encourage more qualified professionals to remain in the country and contribute to the economy.
Eligibility and Application
To be eligible for the EAD, the H1B visa holder must have an approved Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) or be granted an extension of their H1B status beyond the six-year limit based on the American Competitiveness in the Twenty-First Century Act (AC21).
To apply for the EAD, H4 visa holders must submit Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) along with the required documentation, including evidence of the spouse’s H1B status and eligibility under AC21 or an approved Form I-140. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will process the applications and issue the EADs to qualifying applicants.
Impact
This policy change is expected to have a significant positive impact on Indian families in the United States. Allowing both spouses to work will help reduce financial stress and increase the overall standard of living. Additionally, this move is expected to contribute to the US economy by allowing talented professionals to enter the workforce and fill skill gaps in various industries.
Critics argue this change might increase job competition and potential wage suppression for American workers. The US government has assured that it will closely monitor the situation and implement necessary measures to protect the interests of American workers. Keep exploring about rajkotupdates.news : america granted work permit for indian spouse of h-1 b visa holders
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