Important news for H-4 EAD holders! You may be eligible for an automatic extension of your work permit while your renewal application is pending with USCIS. This can help prevent gaps in your employment authorization.
Here's what you need to know:
- Up to 540-day extension: Applies to applications filed between May 4, 2022 and April 8, 2024 (and some before Oct. 27, 2023).
- Proof of extension: Show your USCIS receipt notice (Form I-797C) along with your current EAD (and unexpired Form I-94 if applicable).
How to qualify:
- You filed your H-4 EAD renewal application on time (before your current EAD expired).
- Your renewal category is on the list below (check the code on your EAD).
Eligible EAD Renewal Categories (for automatic extension):
- (a)(3) Refugee
- (a)(5) Asylee
- (a)(7) N-8 or N-9
- (a)(8) Micronesia, Marshall Islands, or Palau Citizen
- (a)(10) Withholding of Deportation/Removal Granted
- (a)(12) Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Granted
- (a)(17) Spouse of E visa holder (with valid E nonimmigrant status)
- (a)(18) Spouse of L-1 visa holder (with valid L-2 nonimmigrant status)
- (c)(8) Asylum application pending
- (c)(9) Adjustment of status pending
- (c)(16) Creation of record (adjustment based on residence since 1/1/1972)
- (c)(19) Pending initial TPS application (prima facie eligible)
- (c)(26) Spouse of certain H-1B visa holders (with valid H-4 nonimmigrant status)
- (c)(31) VAWA self-petitioners
H-4 EAD Renewal Processing Time:
USCIS processing times can vary. Check the USCIS website for current estimates.
Need more info?
- USCIS Automatic EAD Extension: https://egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/
- Categories Eligible for Automatic Extensions: https://egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/