how to apply for h4 visa stamping in india

• Apply online. You will need to fill Form DS-160 online. When you start your H4 visa application, you will get the DS-160 barcode.
• Pay the applicable H4 visa fees. H4 visa fees are the same as other H type visas. Currently, the application fee for this visa is $190.
• Schedule a visa interview appointment. As soon as you file the DS-160 form, schedule an interview appointment with the U.S Embassy from which you are applying for the H4 visa.
• Compile the H4 visa document file. Filled DS-160 application form. Your valid passport with at least one blank page. Two US visa photographs.
Attend the visa interview. After you’ve applied online and submitted your documents, you need to attend the visa interview. ...
Get your visa. You can check your visa status on the website of the U.S Embassy where you are applying by entering your application number.

Full Answer

Do we need to transfer H4 visa?

H4 and H4 EAD do NOT need any transfer. H4 and H4 EAD do NOT need any transfer. You are okay with your current H4 and H4 EAD validity till 15 Aug 2021. Issues with H4 stamping after H1B transfer. No, there is no issue with stamping. Stamping is ONLY needed to enter the USA. Travel on current H4

Do H4 need new stamping with H1B visa transfer?

No, the same concept explained above applies to H4 visa dependents as well. If the H4 visa holder’s visa stamp on the passport is valid, they can use the same visa stamp and present the New H1B approval notice copy of their spouse after transfer. They do not need to go for re-stamping.

Is H4 original I797 required for Visa Stamping?

These documents are NOT required to be submitted but recommended to carry in your H4 visa interview. You may be asked by visa officer to show them. #1 Carry all passports including old and expired. Form i797A or B (H1B approval notice) – Original is best.

Can I start a business on h4 visa?

You can't run a business on an H4. Your intent to switch to an investor visa or whether you “keep the profit in the business” is all irrelevant. It is downright illegal to do business on an H4. You can, however, do a business if you have an H4 EAD.

How long does it take for H4 visa stamping?

Right now, processing times are averaging 2-18 months (depending on the service center). On a case-by-case basis, you can have an H-4 visa expedited (at the determination of USCIS).

How can I get H4 visa stamping?

Fill the I-539 form to apply for a change in status with the USCIS to get the H4 visa status. Once a confirmation mail is received, give Biometrics at the application support center at your nearest center. You will receive H4 approval notice after the completion of the Biometrics.

How can I get H4 visa stamped in India?

You need to take the following steps when applying for H4 visa:Apply online. You will need to fill Form DS-160 online. ... Pay the applicable H4 visa fees. H4 visa fees are the same as other H type visas. ... Schedule a visa interview appointment. ... Compile the H4 visa document file. ... Attend the visa interview. ... Get your visa.

Is H4 visa stamping open in India?

They will be opened for second half of August. H/L Dropbox Appointments : The dropbox slots are fully booked for several months for H/L Visa types ( H1B, H4, L1, L2). They plan to open slots now and then as time permits. B1/ B2 Slots : They have opened fresh B1/B2 slots until 2024 and continue to open slots.

How much is H4 visa fee?

One form I-539, and one filing fee of $370 should be submitted per family, regardless of the number of H-4 applicants.

Can I file H4 visa on my own?

Q: Do I need to apply for H4 visa EAD through an attorney, or can I do this on my own? A: Just like any other immigration petition, you don't have to go through an attorney, and you can do it yourself.

Is H4 i797 required for visa stamping?

H4 i797 is irrelevant and is not required for H4 visa stamping.

Is H4 visa eligible for DropBox?

Primary H1B is eligible for dropbox but dependent H4 is not.

Can I go with my wife for H4 visa interview?

Yes your wife can attend the visa interview all by herself, but make sure she carries all the necessary documents previous H1B stamp, marriage certificate, current company's 797.

How do I book slots for H4 visa appointment?

Click on “Schedule Appointment”. Select the Visa Type, and hit “Continue”. Select your state of residence, and hit “Continue”. Select the Language of Interview, and hit “Continue”.

Can H4 visa holder travel to USA now?

As per the US Department of State notification, this applies to H-1B, H2A, H4, J1 visa categories. Dependents of H1-B work visas can now travel to the US, according to a US Department of State directive. This applies to H-1B, H2A, H4, J1 visa categories, the US Department of State said in a notification.

Can H-4 work without EAD?

Who can apply for the Employment Authorization Document? Before 2015, H-4 visa work was prohibited. However, since 2015, certain H4 visa holders are allowed to work under the EAD program. While the UCSIS proposed eliminating the program in February 2019, it is still up for review.

How do I book slots for H4 visa appointment?

Click on “Schedule Appointment”. Select the Visa Type, and hit “Continue”. Select your state of residence, and hit “Continue”. Select the Language of Interview, and hit “Continue”.

How can I get H4 visa from DropBox?

3-Step DropBox Process For H4 Visa HoldersDS -160: Fill out Form DS-160 in its entirety. Print and save two copies of your DS-160 confirmation page.Online Account: In order to proceed to the next step, create an online account with the US Consulate. ... Pay Fees: Due13,680 INR.

Is H4 eligible for DropBox?

Family Member not Eligible for Dropbox Example: Primary H1B is eligible for dropbox but dependent H4 is not.

H4 Visa Process

For foreigners living in USA who want to bring their spouse to the USA, here is a step-by-step process for obtaining a H4 visa.

EAD For H4 Visa

Qualified H-4 dependent are now eligible for employment in the US; here is a step-by-step guide for EAD for H4 Visa holders.

How long does it take to get a visa stamped?

You will very likely get a decision on your visa stamping within 7 to 10 business days from the day you dropped off your documents.

When does the US visa expire?

But, due to COVID-19, US Dept of State has increased the 12 months from expiry to 24 months from expiry. It is valid until March 31st, 2021. You can read more at US Visa Dropbox Changed to 24 Months – FAQs.

What does VAC stand for in visa application?

But, if you see VAC at the end of the consulate name, then you are booking a biometrics appointment. VAC Stands for Visa Application Center and when you see that you are booking an appointment for giving Biometrics at the VAC office before your in-person visa interview. See below screenshot for your reference.

Does the visa waiver dropbox change?

The criteria for US visa interview waiver or dropbox option has not changed with the introduction of appointment booking. All the The documents required has not changed, you are still required to submit all the required documents.

Validity

The status of the H-4 visa is connected to the H visa holder. If the H visa holder loses their status, the H4 visa will lose their status as well. If the H visa holder’s status is extended then the H-4 visa will be extended as well.

Benefits of the H4 Visa

The H4 visa holder will be able to live and study in the U.S. Spouses of H-1B holders can also work. In order to work they need to get valid Employment Authorization Documents (EAD). Also since 2015, H-4 visa holders can apply for lawful permanent residence (green cards).

H4 Visa Application

When applying for an H4 visa, the applicant will need to take the following steps:

Documents Required for H4 Visa

Applicants must provide the following documents to apply for the H4 visa:

H4 Visa Interview Questions

After the applicant has applied online and submitted their documents, they need to attend the H4 visa interview. During the interview, the interviewers will try to determine the legitimacy of the applicant’s relationship with the H type visa holder.

H4 Visa Status

The applicant can enter their application number on the US Embassy website to check the visa status. You can check your H4 visa cases through CEAC Visa Status Check online portal, using the case number or CEAC barcode on the DS-160 confirmation page. Once the H4 visa is processed, the embassy will notify the applicant.

H4 Visa Processing Time

The H4 visa processing times vary from country to country. It is likely that the visa will take as long as the spouse or parent’s H visa takes to process.

Can an H4 interview go wrong?

H4 Visa interview can go wrong if you are not prepared. Visa officer can issue a form 221g and you may have to wait before a visa can be issued.

Is the H1B i797C a valid proof of approval?

H1B primary Form i797A or B (H1B approval notice) – Original is best. If not possible, then carry color copy of i797 approval. i797C is not a valid proof of approval.

Is H1B interview pending?

Primary H1B interview is scheduled separately after H4 visa interview. H1B amendment is pending in USA. H1B Transfer is pending in USA and primary H1B has joined the new employer. Marriage Certificate registered but real traditional marriage ceremony happened on other date which does not match certificate date.

How long is a visa application valid for?

There is no fee to change an appointment and visa application fees are valid for one year in the country where the fee was paid. The purpose of your intended travel and other facts will determine what type of visa is required under U.S. immigration law.

What determines what type of visa is required?

The purpose of your intended travel and other facts will determine what type of visa is required under U.S. immigration law. As a visa applicant, you will need to establish that you meet all requirements to receive the category of visa for which you are applying.

How to request an expedited appointment?

How to Request an Expedited Appointment: Applicants can request an expedited appointment through our online appointment system at https://www.ustraveldocs.com/in/expedited-appointment.html. You must already have a confirmed interview appointment date in order to request an expedited appointment. If your expedited appointment request is approved, you will be notified with instructions via email. You should not cancel your existing appointment unless you receive a confirmation that your request for an expedited appointment has been approved. If you have not yet received an approval or denial, your request is still under consideration.

What are the exceptions to the suspension of entry?

There are certain exceptions to the suspension of entry, including exceptions for certain family members of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, among other exceptions listed in the proclamations.

When did Biden suspend travel to India?

On April 30, President Biden signed Presidential Proclamation 10199 suspending most nonimmigrant travel from India. In light of the travel suspension and due to the current pandemic situation in India, most other routine nonimmigrant visa and VAC appointments at U.S. Embassy New Delhi and the consulates in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, ...

Is there a drop box for visa renewal in India?

Drop Box Appointments: Consular sections across India are now accepting a limited number of drop box applications for renewals of H, L, C1/D, O, I, F, M, and J visas at our Visa Application Centers. Please visit our website to determine whether you are eligible for drop box processing and schedule an appointment for document drop-off. A list of drop-off locations is available on our website.

When is my wife's H4 interview?

My wife H4 interview successfully completed on Sep 9th, 2020, at Delhi consulate. Here is the story

How long did it take to get into the VAC?

Reached VAC center at 8.45AM, they allowed inside, process completed in 15 mins..

Is the US consulate in India open?

Due to COVID-19, US Consulates in India are not open for regular operations yet. Many of the H4 Holders are getting Emergency US Visa Appointments based on H1B & H4 Visa Exemptions from Trump travel ban. The H4 Visa community has really come together to help one another other during difficult times in various social media channels, especially many Telegram groups.

Where to apply for H4 visa?

If you are outside the U.S, you will need to submit your application for H4 Visa at the U.S Embassy where your spouse or parent has applied or in your home country if you and your spouse are of different nationalities. If you are within the U.S, you can submit your H4 visa application through the USCIS.

How much does an H4 visa cost?

H4 visa fees are the same as other H type visas. Currently, the application fee for this visa is $190. Pay the fee and save the receipt, as you will need it later during your application procedures.

How Long Can I Stay in the U.S With an H4 Visa?

When you apply for the H4 visa, you will have to submit your spouse’s or parent’s I-797 form. This form states the dates that the visa of your spouse or parent is valid. Based on this, the U.S Embassy will also grant you a visa with the same validity of your spouse ’s or parent’s visa.

How long is an H4 visa valid?

So if your spouse has a visa that is valid for 3 years , your H4 visa will also be valid for 3 years. That is the length of time that you can to stay in the U.S.

How to check H4 status?

You can check your visa status on the website of the U.S Embassy where you are applying by entering your application number. The Embassy will notify you once they process your H4 visa. If you have been granted the H4 visa, you will need to go for the visa stamping procedures.

What is a copy of my spouse's passport?

A copy of your spouse’s/parent’s passport with a clear, identifiable photo. Your spouse’s/parent’s letter of employment in the U.S. Copies of your spouse’s/parent’s letters of previous work experience. Recent pay stubs and tax filing information, if your spouse/parent is already working in the U.S.

Who is eligible for H4 visa?

The H4 visa is issued to the dependent family members of an H1B visa holder (spouse and children under 21 years) who want to join the H1B visa holder in the United States.

What is H4 Visa?

The H4 visa employment was an important announcement made by President Obama. The Department of Homeland security (DHS) intends to increase the economic stability of the nation by allowing the dependents and H4 spouse of the H1 visa holders to work and the H1 visa holders can extend their stay. The Donald Trump administration also encouraged the skilled foreign workers to work in the USA along with their H1 visa holders.

What to do if you apply for H4 visa first time?

If you are applying the first time for the H4 visa, then you are advised to consult an immigration attorney to smooth H4 visa processing in compliance with the immigration law.

What documents do I need for a h4 visa?

The H4 visa applicant has to submit the following documents to the visa officer:

How long is h4 visa valid?

The H4 visa is valid for three years. The eligibility lasts until the principal H1 holder has an approved I-129. In an unfortunate situation where the H1B holder is out of a job, then a grace period of 60 days will be given.

How much is h4 visa fee?

The Visa fee payable for the H4 visa is $190, which is approximately 11, 000 INR. This amount should be paid before scheduling the interview for the visa. The payment can be made through debit cards electronically via NEFT or IMPS transactions or cash payments in Citi Bank or Axis bank counters. The visa fee can also be paid at DRUK bank. The Visa fee paid is non-refundable.

How long does it take to get an extension for an H4 visa?

As per the USCIS, the H4 visa holder can file for extension within 180 days of the EAD expiration.

How long does it take to change from H1B to H4?

In such a case, can change your visa status from H1B to H4 visa status. You should start applying as soon as possible as the visa status change can take 2-3 months.