Check if you are eligible to apply for H4 EAD.

Documents for H4 EAD Application

#1 H4-EAD Fees Check / Credit Card

After Oct. 28, 2025 USCIS will accept only ACH debit transactions using Form G-1650 or credit card payments using Form G-1450.

ACH should be from a US bank. If you are using the credit card, then it should have been issued by a US bank. International cards from non-US countries will not work.

Till Oct 28, 2025 – You can send the personal check for H4 EAD payment.

H4 EAD fees check for $520 payable to the ‘U.S. Department of Homeland Security‘.

Short forms like USCIS are not allowed on personal, cashier, or money orders.

Personal checks from your checking or savings account in Bank of America, Chase, etc. are allowed. A certified check is not required.

Do not add biometric fees to the H4 EAD check. Calculate the current USCIS H4 EAD fee.

Biometrics is only required for H4 extension and not H4 EAD. If you send the wrong fee, USCIS will reject your application and send it back.

#2 Photo

Two identical 2×2 inch photographs clicked within the last 30 days are required for the H4 EAD application.

Write your name and i94 number (OR SSN OR Alien registration number) on the back of the photograph with a light gray colored pencil.

Offcourse, you can click the H4 EAD photo at home, edit it and then print yourself to save money.

The admission record number on H4’s i94 fetched from the CBP site is what should be written on the back of each photo.

Do not send an old photo with the I-765 application as USCIS will send RFE to submit new photos. This will increase your H4 EAD processing time.

#3 How to file H4 EAD using Form I-765

Download and fill USCIS i765 form. You can also use our app to fill out the form. The app validates and checks all form fields to make sure you do not make any mistakes.

You can use this app to fill the form, validate all, and make sure the form is not rejected or an RFE is sent by USCIS:

#4 H4 Status Proof

• Copy of H-4 visa holder’s most recent I-797 Approval. If an H4 extension has been approved recently, use the extension approval. OR
• Most recent H4 i-94 copy. If an H4 extension were approved recently, the new i94 would be attached to your H4 extension approval (i797) notice OR
• A Copy of the pending H4 extension if it has not reached any result yet.

#5 Government-issued Photo ID Document

• Copy of Passport’s front (with Photo) and back pages (with address) OR
• Copy of USA H4 Visa stamp page from the Passport OR
• A copy of your last EAD – Both front and back (if any) OR
• A birth certificate with a photo ID. For example, an Indian (or Chinese) birth certificate will work only if it has a photograph. OR
• Any other national identity document with a photo. US State ID or Driving License is NOT acceptable.

#6 H4’s Relationship with H-1B

A copy of your marriage certificate in English is required to prove the H4 dependent’s relationship to primary H1B.

#7 H4 EAD Eligibility Proof

Primary H1B spouse’s I-140 i797c approval notice is required to prove H4 EAD eligibility.

If your employer has not shared the I-140 approval copy with you, use the USCIS FOIA request to get I-140 details.

#8 Current H4-EAD copy for Renewal

An existing EAD copy is required only if you already have H4 EAD and you are applying for renewal or extension.

Only a black color ink pen is allowed as USCIS uses computer scanning to read forms.

Do NOT staple the documents. Use a paper clip to bind them together.

Concurrent Filing – H1B, H4, H4 EAD

If you are filing H1B, H4, and H4 EAD applications concurrently at the same time in the same package, you can write this in question 29 on form i765:

• “Filed Concurrently” OR
• Leave Blank OR
• Write the current approved H1B receipt number

All three options have been tried and tested and all of them work fine. Our recommendation is to write “Filed concurrently” in Q29 or use our app and it will handle all text automatically.

Don’t worry about the limited space to write it. You can just write with free handwriting.

H4-EAD Renewal Documents

The document list is the same for H4-EAD renewal or extension as for the new H4-EAD application mentioned above.

The start date for the H4 EAD extension may be in the future.

Example,
If your H4 expires in Sep, and you applied for renewal in Mar, of the same year, your extended H4’s start date may be Sep instead of March.

It is on USCIS to give a current start date or future one (that correlates with your current H4’s expiry date).

To fill up the i-765 form, we would consider the most recent H4 approval irrespective of its start date.

Based on it, your i94 number and primary H1B i797 approval receipt number will be decided while filing the i765.

Apply SSN with EAD

If you do not currently have SSN, select ‘No’ on Q 13.a. and then select ‘Yes’ on Q 14 and Q 15.
You will have to fill Q 16.a., 16.b. with your (H4’s) father and mother’s name to get an SSN card.

Your SSN card will be automatically generated after your EAD is approved within 3-4 weeks and mailed by USPS.

FAQ

The post How to file H4 EAD, Documents, Form i765 (New / Renewal Process) appeared first on AM22Tech.

Many applicants face delays or RFEs because their photos do not meet USCIS standards.

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you get your photos right the first time as per USCIS photo guidelines for H4 EAD.

Official USCIS Photo Requirements

To avoid delays and rejections, your application photos must strictly follow the official U.S. government photo specifications.

• Size: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm)
• Head Position: Head height must be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25–35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the hair.
• Background: A plain white or off-white background is required, with no patterns or shadows.
• Expression: Maintain a neutral facial expression or a natural, subtle smile. Both eyes must be open and visible.
• Eyewear: Glasses are not permitted in the photo, except in rare instances of medical necessity with a signed doctor’s statement.
• Print Quality: Photos must be high-resolution, printed on photo-quality paper (matte or glossy), and free of smudges or creases.
• Quantity: Unless specified otherwise on your form, you must submit two identical photos.

Important: Do not use selfies, casual snapshots, or heavily filtered photos. Ensure the lighting is even and there are no dark shadows on your face or the background.

Where to Get H4 EAD photo Clicked?

You can visit Walmart, CVS or Walgreens to get your photos clicked for H4 EAD.

At some locations, even Costco and Sams club also offer reasonably proced passport size photos. They can also edit the photo as per USCIS requirements.

They usually charge upwards of $14.99 for two pictures.

The other option is to click the photo yourself using the mobile phone camera or your digital camera. There are softwares and websites available online which can help you edit your photos to exact specifications.

You should remember that editing is complex as the final edited image should print to exact measurements of 2 inch x 2 inch on paper. The image’s DPI (dots per inch) also matter as they control the quality of the final printed output.

USCIS requires the image to be high resolution which can be attained if you click the image by your iPhone and then edit it to at least 300 DPI. AM22Tech’s AI photo editor takes care of checking the photo resolution and edits it to minimum 300 Dots per inch thereby making it extremely easy to satisfy government requirements.

If you would like to click them yourself to save money, here is how to take H4 EAD photo at home.

Step 1 of 4

Lighting

How to Take Your Passport or Visa Photo at Home

Save time and money by capturing a professional-quality photo right from home. All you need is a smartphone and a few minutes. Follow these steps for the perfect shot.

1 Right Lighting

Stand against a plain white or off-white wall. Face a window for natural daylight to ensure even lighting and avoid harsh shadows.

2 Set Up Your Camera

Use a tripod or ask a friend. Keep the lens at eye level and about 2 to 4 feet away. Always use the back camera for sharper quality.

3 Strike the Correct Pose

Look directly at the camera with a neutral expression. Keep your head straight, shoulders relaxed, and ensure your full head and shoulders are visible.

4 Capture & Upload

Take the shot and upload it to an AI photo editor. It will adjust background, crop correctly, and produce a high-resolution photo that matches government standards.

Expert Tip

Avoid using a flash. It creates glare on skin and glasses. Natural light is your best friend!

Making Your Photo USCIS-Ready

Even with a perfect shot, technical details like resizing, cropping, and cleaning the background can be a headache. USCIS is very strict and will reject photos if the head ratio or dimensions are even slightly off, leading to frustrating delays.

The Final Editing Steps

• Crop and center the head to the exact specifications.
• Ensure precise 2x2 inch (51x51 mm) dimensions.
• Professionally remove background shadows and ensure a pure white background.
• Generate print-ready files (JPEG/PNG/PDF) for easy printing at home or a store.

FAQ

The post How to Get H4 EAD Photo Online – USCIS Guidelines [Avoid Rejection] appeared first on AM22Tech.

You can use this app to fill out the EAD form, validate all, and make sure the form is not rejected or an RFE is sent by USCIS.

EAD Processing Time

You will receive the new EAD card (i-485 EAD, F1 OPT-EAD, L2 EAD, H4 EAD, or other) by mail within 5-10 working days after the “New card is being produced” USCIS case status update.

The EAD (Employment Authorization Document) is filed using USCIS form I-765.

I485 New Card is Being Produced

The i485 adjustment of status application can also have the “New card is being produced” status. This means that your green card is approved. You should get it by USPS mail within 5-10 working days after this status.

It is possible that the case status directly shows the New card is being produced without any USCIS notification about case approval. There is no need to worry as the card will not be produced until the case is approved first.

As an example, see the case history for this i-485 application where the status changed to “New card is being produced” even when the expedited request was denied.

It seems that the USCIS website only shows the most recent update if there have been multiple status changes within the same day. I am just guessing here.

SSN Card with EAD

The SSN request is sent to the SSN office after your EAD has been approved. It will take about 4-5 weeks for the SSN card to arrive by USPS mail.

There is no biometric required for H4-EAD and SSN.

SSN card Not Received After EAD approval?

If you do not receive the SSN in 6 weeks, you can directly visit your local SSN office. They can check if any SSN application is pending for you.

If no application is pending, you can request a new SSN.

EAD, AP Combo Card

The i485 EAD + AP (advance parole) combo card is also approved with a “New card is being produced” status.

In many cases, if USCIS thinks that your Green card can be approved earlier than your EAD/AP, they may even deny your EAD application. This is normal and no need to worry.

It would help if you planned to travel outside the USA only after your I131 advance parole card has been approved.  

USCIS Case History

Other status updates for the EAD i765 application may look like this:

FAQ

The post New Card Is Being Produced Meaning (USCIS Case Status) appeared first on AM22Tech.

This will give you the opportunity to look for another employment or apply for a visa change of status.

You can stay in the US for 60 days if you lose your H1-B job. 

USCIS allows a grace period of up to 60 days for non-immigrant workers in E-1, E-2, E-3, H1B, H1B1, L-1, O-1, and TN status.

Grace Period Calculator

H1B Grace Period Start Date with Severance Pay can be assumed to start after the severance period is over.

In some states like California, the state law makes it mandatory to give 60 day’s notice period to the employee along with the severance package. An employee is paid a salary but is not expected to work during this period.

Start counting the calendar days from your last day of work. You can use this calculator to find the 60th-day mark.

Using the app to find your H1B options during the 60-day grace is easy. Just enter:

• Your last working date
• Most recent i94 expiry date
• Severance Paydays (if any). The default value is zero.

Click ‘Calculate’ or ‘Find my Options’ and the app will immediately evaluate your situation and help you with all possible options to maintain legal H1B status in the USA.

Attorney Opinion

As per RN law group attorney Emily Neumann, they have been able to count the severance pay period as a valid legal H1B time. This means that your H1B 60-day period starts after your severance pay period has ended.

Hear what immigration attorney Emily Neumann says starting at time 49:57 in this video chat:

In this case of a layoff, you will actually get 120 days (60 by state + 60 by USCIS).

On the other hand, Immigration Attorney Cyrus D. Mehta says that the severance pay period or the garden leave (when the person is on the bench without a project but is paid the salary) may or may not push the 60-day grace period start date. He has cited several USCIS rules which point to the USCIS officer’s discretion on the start date.

60-Day Grace Period vs i94 Expiry

You get up to 60 days or until the expiration date of the current I-94, whichever period is shorter.

Example:

Most common action that people take is to file H1B to H4 change of status application if spouse is currently on H1B visa of their own.

The fastest option to get on H4 status is to visit Mexico or Canada and get an H4 visa stamping. You can then re-enter the US using H4 and then immediately apply for H4 EAD.

Other practical options during the grace period are summed up here.

Prepare to leave the USA

If you are not able to switch to any other visa type, then you can leave the USA to avoid any unlawful stay.

No need to worry as you can come back anytime you are able to find a new H1B sponsor.

Your 6-year H1B max-out time clock stops as soon as you leave the US. Also, if you have i140 approved, you need not worry about the 6-year clock.

Carry Over Un-Used Grace Period days?

The 60-day grace period must be used in one chance. Your unused days cannot be carried over to another grace period.

60 Grace period single block is only available once per the H1B petition’s validity period.

If an H1B extension had been filed and approved with employer A i.e. a new H1B approval validity period has started, then you are eligible for a new 60 days grace period.

H1B Transfer

You can start working with the new H1B Transfer employer as soon as you file a change of employer petition.

The ideal situation would mean that you should have received the USCIS receipt number.

Usually, if you send your H1B application by FedEx and USCIS has received it on or before the 60th day, you are allowed to start work. Check with your employer if they are okay for you to start working.

Transfer after 60 days

You can start working with a new H1B employer even if your H1B transfer was filed on the 60th day and you received the receipt number on the last day.

• If the petition is going to be filed on the 61st day or you will receive the receipt number on the 61st day or after, you should ideally go out of the USA by your 60th day and plan to re-enter the USA.
• After the 60th day, you are automatically considered ‘OUT OF STATUS‘ if you have not yet applied for H1B.

Multiple Transfer Filing

You can file multiple H1B transfers during the grace period.

You can also file a transfer with employer A and start working for them to get back into H1B status.

After the 60-day period, you can file another transfer to employer B and join them even when employer A’s transfer is still pending. It is legally possible but the best option would be to first get employer A’s approval.

Old Employer H1B Visa Stamp

You can use the OLD employer’s visa stamp to re-enter the USA if the visa stamp is still valid at any time.

But, you should carry the new H1B transfer approval notice (i797 notice of approval) to be shown at the USA port of entry.

On the other hand, we strongly advise getting the new visa stamped in your passport with a newly approved H1B to avoid issues at the immigration counter.

H4 Extension/Transfer

H4 is dependent on the H1B status.

If the H4’s i94 is expiring in the next 12 months, we suggest filing an H4 transfer along with an H1B transfer too. Otherwise, the H4 transfer can be delayed until the H4 i94 is about to expire (within 6 months of expiry).

FAQ

The post H1B 60-day Grace USCIS Rule – Lay off, H4 EAD work (Severance Time)? appeared first on AM22Tech.

USCIS forwards your H4 EAD application internally to other centers from Dallas or Phoenix themselves. You do not need to worry about it.

How to find out the H4 EAD filing address:

1. Filing H4 i765 EAD alone:
   • You should use H1B’s most recent approval notice written on form i797.
   • Keep reading this article to find the address.
2. Filing H4 i765 EAD with i539 (H4 extension or H4 change of status):
   • You should send the i765 along with i539 to the USCIS address where you are sending form i539.
   • Form i539 filing address can be found below. At this time, they are the same as the H4 EAD alone filing address.
3. Filing H4 i765 EAD with i539 (H4 extension or H4 change of status) and/or H1B i129:
   • Send all of them to the USCIS filing address for form i129.

You can use this app to fill out the EAD form, validate all, and make sure the form is not rejected or an RFE is sent by USCIS.

H1B Receipt Number Starts with IOE?

USCIS has recently started generating H1B receipt numbers using their e-filing with receipt numbers that start with IOE or MCT.

In this case, the actual service center name is written at the bottom of the receipt.

H4 EAD applications are sent to other USCIS service centers after sorting through the lockbox addresses. You will get an H4 EAD receipt number separately from the final service center.

Dallas USCIS Lockbox – EAC, LIN, MCT

EAC is an eastern service center and is located in Vermont. LIN is Nebraska.

#1 Sending by USPS postal mail

#2 FedEx or UPS or private mail company

USCIS Phoenix Lockbox – WAC, SRC, IOE

Your primary H1 B receipt number should start with WAC or SRC to send the H4 EAD application to the USCIS Phoenix Lockbox office.

WAC refers to the California Service Center.

SRC is a Texas service center.

#1 Sending by USPS postal mail

#2 FedEx or UPS or private mail company

FAQ

Source: USCIS

The post H4 EAD USCIS Mail Address – Filing alone or with H4 extension appeared first on AM22Tech.

The immigration system here is so complex that unless you are half attorney, you will make mistakes on the way.

It is not a mistake but a design.

1. Your physical entry into the US is governed by a visa stamp in your Passport or Advance Parole document.
2. Your stay length in the US is governed by i94.
3. The i94 validity is governed by your passport expiry.
4. Your passport expiry is governed by your country’s passport validity rules!

Coming to the topic and giving you options if you forgot to file an H4 extension with USCIS before the H4 i94 expired.

There are a couple of them.

Option 1: File H4 Extension with NPT with USCIS

The quickest option without leaving the USA physically is to file a Nunc Pro Tunc (NPT) application with USCIS.

This is nothing but filing the regular H4 extension using form i539 and requesting the extension from the past date. This past date is the date of the i94 expiry.

In most cases of H4, if the primary H1B has maintained the H1B status and the H4 extension was missed unintentionally, USCIS regularly approves the H4 extension with NPT.

Once approved, they issue an I94 from the past date to make the gap period legal.

How to make an NPT filing decision?

We are sharing this as a suggestion based on real-life instances that our users on the forum have shared and had success with NPT.

In all cases, we suggest to leave the US and apply H4 visa stamp in your passport if your stay has exceeded 180 days.

This is a successful case of H4 visa stamping at Hyderabad, India after spending 180+ days in the US, filing NPT, and then leaving to be on the safe side.

The 180-day mark is important as there can be a 3-year entry ban that can be imposed on you if you have stayed in the US without status for 180+ days.

USA Entry ban criteria

• 3 years: If the person spent more than 180 continuous days (approximately six months) in the U.S. unlawfully and then left voluntarily before removal proceedings begin
• 10 years: If the person spent more than 365 days (one continuous year) in the U.S. unlawfully and then left for whatever reason, or was ordered removed from the U.S

This means that it is better to leave even if the NPT application is pending result and was filed before 180 days were completed. This helps to stay on the safe side as the USCIS result is unknown and you do not know how much more time USCIS will take to process your NPT application.

Option 2: Leave the US, File H4 Visa with US Embassy

The other option is to leave the US and file an H4 visa stamp application using your spouse’s H1B i797 petition with the US embassy.

You can visit your home country, Mexico, Canada, or any other country to get this H4 visa stamp.

You will need an explanation of your situation as to why you did not file an extension time along with the regular documents for the H4 visa stamp.

On the DS-160 form, you will have to say yes to the question and then explain your situation.

How to explain?

The most common answer to H4 not being filed timely is “We did not know that an H4 extension is required“. This is the WRONG answer as negligence of US immigration laws is not allowed.

We suggest writing any one of the following based on your situation:

• The employer usually files the H4 extension along with H1B and this time, they did not sponsor the H4 extension. We filed an NPT extension as soon as we got to know about it.
• We traveled out of the US and the H4 i94 was shortened due to the passport expiry on re-entry. We forgot to track the i94 expiry but applied for an H4 extension as soon as we realized our mistake

Unlawful presence starts on I94 expiry

Even a single day stay after your H4 i94 has expired is counted as an “Unlawful presence”.

No issue if you mention the Truth in DS 160

It is okay to mention this Unlawful presence time as it is a genuine time. It should not affect your application.

How to File a Nunc Pro Tunc Request?

NPT does not have any official form or a template to file with USCIS. It is simply a request on plain paper that you can write to explain your situation and request approval from the past date.

1. Supporting documents: We suggest including the supporting documents that help prove your argument of why you missed filing the extension before the i94 expiry.
   • Expired Passport copy – If i94 expired due to passport expiry
   • Medical condition – If you had any medical condition that prevented or made you forget to file an extension on time, then include your medical bills and a letter from the Doctor about your condition.
2. Cover letter: Write a letter explaining your situation. If you need help with writing an NPT cover letter, you can contact us and one of our experts will write one for you.
3. USCIS Form: In the case of H4, you will need to fill out form i539.

You will need to send your NPT cover letter, supporting documents, and the USCIS form in the same package to USCIS.

FAQ

The post Missed to file H4 extension, Spent 180+ days in US after i94 expiry [What to do?] appeared first on AM22Tech.

Visa renewal within the USA might be announced sometime in 2025. The final date is not available. The US government ran a pilot program in 2024 and allowed only specific H1B applicants to apply.

The US embassy in India had mentioned in their recent statement that this pilot program was successful.

The US Department of State (which governs US embassies) intends to make it a permanent program soon preferably sometime in 2025.

Pilot Program 2024

H1B visa renewal without traveling outside the USA was available between 29 Jan 2024 to 1 April 2024 within the USA.

The visa renewal, form 221g, or denial within the USA should have the same rules as they have when you travel outside the US.

The major benefit that I foresee is the ability to keep staying in the USA even if the visa renewal is denied, which is not possible if you apply at the US embassy outside the US.

How to Apply

The application can be submitted for H1B visa renewal within the USA at this DOS website. You will be required to fill out the DS-160 form separately.

1. Fill DS160: Fill DS–160 form online by selecting “U.S.-DOMESTIC” as your location.
2. Fee payment:
   • Fee payment has to be done on the US Travel Docs website (for Indians, this is the website).
   • Create a log-in on the US Travel Docs website if do not have one already.
   • Pay the fee as per the visa.
3. Schedule appointment:
   • Even though visa stamping in the USA does not need any physical interview, the process requires you to schedule an appointment.
   • Select ‘Washington DC‘ as your visa ‘post’ on the US Travel Docs website and then print the appointment letter.
4. Prepaid Courier Label:
   • Three days before the appointment date, you will receive an email containing instructions for the document submission process.
   • The email will include a prepaid courier airway bill that should be carried along with the documents to the FedEx courier office for submission.
   • Once submitted to FedEx, your application will be sent to Washington DC.
5. Passport return: Passports will be returned via FedEx mail in both cases: Visa issued or not issued.

It’s a good start keeping in mind the trouble people face in booking appointments with the USA Travel Docs website, especially the Indian version which is riddled with software bugs.

Visa Renewal Rules (Pilot program)

These were the rules defined for the pilot program in 2024. We will update once the full-fledged program rules are announced in 2025.

1. Should be an H1B visa renewal
2. Previous H1B visa stamp (expired or unexpired) should have been issued by
   • US Embassy in Canada between 1 Jan 2020 to 1 Apr 2023 OR
   • US Embassy in India between 1 Feb 2021 to 30 Sep 2021
3. Eligible for dropbox
4. Must be residing in the US at the time of application
   • Your visa can be denied if you leave the US before the application reaches a result
   • No proof of residence is required
5. Have an approved and valid H1B petition from USCIS (form i797)
   • This can be an H1B transfer, change of status, amendment, or an extension approval.
6. Most recent valid i94 shows status as “H1B”
   • If you changed your status to non-H1B, or your most recent i94 shows any other status, then you are not eligible.

The eligibility criteria to apply for H1B visa renewal within the USA are quite restricted for the pilot phase.

You can use our app to see if you are eligible for visa renewal in the USA.

It is expected that the previous visa issuance country and the date range will be removed later.

Documents required

1. One Photo (2×2) size
2. DS-160
3. Original valid passport (Valid for at least the next 6 months from the date of application)
4. H1B valid unexpired i797 (original or color copy)
5. H1B valid unexpired i94

The document mail address will be shared by DOS online in their portal once you have submitted your application.

You can mail by USPS, UPS, or FedEx as per your choice.

All your documents will be returned to you with your original passport as usual.

Fee

The non-refundable fee is $205 and can be paid by debit or credit card online on the DOS portal.

If you do not qualify for the Dropbox separately, and you still apply for the visa, DOS will reject your application and the fee will not be refunded.

Processing Time

The estimated processing time is 6-8 weeks. There is no premium processing available.

DOS plans to finish processing all applications received during the pilot phase by 1 May 2024.

You will be able to check the application status on the CEAC website, as you do when you apply with the US embassy outside the USA.

FAQ

More Questions?

Add them in the comments or send them on Twitter @am22tech and we will try to answer to the best of our knowledge. Note that this is not a legal advice.

The post H1B Visa Renewal In USA – $205 fee – Rules, Form 221g, Denial? appeared first on AM22Tech.

We do not recommend traveling unless you have a real emergency to go out of the USA especially when the Amendment is pending.

We recommend upgrading your H1B application to premium and getting approval within 15 days before traveling to be on the absolute safe side.

You can learn quickly by watching this short story about traveling while H1b is pending.

H1B Change of Status is Pending Risks

You can travel outside the US while an H1B change of status is pending. 

The risk of travel is that USCIS will automatically abandon your Change of status request.

H1B Change of Status application status at the time of re-entry to the USA:

#1 H1B COS APPROVED

You will have to get a hard copy of your approved H1B’s i797 and apply for an H1B visa at the US embassy before you can enter the USA with an H1B visa.

This is because your Change of Status was automatically abandoned by USCIS when you stepped out of the USA.

#2 Change of Status DENIED

If the H1B COS is denied while you are traveling, you can enter the USA only with any other visa you have.

#3 COS to H1B PENDING

You cannot enter using H1B status as the application is still pending. You need some other valid visa to enter the USA.

The underlying H1B application will be approved (if approved) with consular processing meaning that you will have to go to the US embassy to get an H1B stamped in your passport and then re-enter the USA.

H1B Extension is Pending USCIS Decision

You can travel outside the USA during the pending H1B extension. Make sure you have an existing H1B visa that is valid on the date of your re-entry to avoid trouble.

If your current H1B visa has already expired and you travel, you will NOT be able to enter the USA until your pending H1B extension is approved.

Example:

You can travel to India while the H1B extension is in progress and the visa is still valid for re-entry.

H1B extension status when you re-enter the USA:

#1 H1B Extension APPROVED

You will have to get the hard copy of your approved H1B’s i797 and apply for an H1B visa at the US embassy before you can enter the USA with a NEWLY approved H1B extended petition.

You can still enter using your OLD valid H1B (if any) but, your i94 will be restricted to the old H1B’s expiry date.

This will be a problem as you will have to either file another H1B extension to get a new i94 or travel outside the USA again and get an extended H1B stamped in your passport.

#2 Extension is DENIED

If the H1B extension is denied while you are traveling, you can only re-enter the USA if your existing H1B visa is still valid at the time of re-entry.

#3 PENDING Extension

You can still enter using your OLD valid H1B (if any) but, your i94 will be restricted to the old H1B’s expiry date once it is approved.

You may not get a new i94 with approval.

H1B Amendment is Pending Result

You can travel internationally while your H1B amendment is still under process at USCIS but we recommend to NOT travel as re-entry risk is very high.

If your amendment status is approved, denied, or pending while you are outside the USA:

#1 APPROVED Amendment

You will need to get the new physical i797 approval shipped to you to re-enter the USA.

#2 H1B Amendment DENIED

You can re-enter the USA using existing H1B approval and stamp but will have to only work using the non-amended H1B.

#3 Amendment is PENDING

You can re-enter the USA using existing H1B approval and stamp but the immigration officer will ask tough questions.

• You may be denied entry if you have already started working based on the H1B amendment receipt. This is a very high-risk situation.
• USCIS may not issue a new i94 once the amendment is approved as you exited the US.

If you want to enter the US to work with an old approved H1B and an old work location (not a new location), then you are fine.

You should be able to enter the US without any issues.

H1B Transfer is Pending Approval

Can I travel while my H1B transfer is pending: Yes, you can.

But, our suggestion is to avoid travel while the H1B transfer is pending if you have already joined (started working) for a new employer based on the H1B receipt.

If you are still working with the current H1B employer and waiting for the H1B transfer result, you can travel.

Make sure your H1B stays valid at the time of your return to the USA.

H1B transfer status when you re-enter the USA:

#1 H1B Transfer is APPROVED

If you had already joined the new employer before leaving the USA, you are lucky. Get the H1B i797 hard copy mailed to you outside the USA and then get an H1B stamp using DS-160 in the US Embassy.

• If you do not want to get an H1B stamp, you can still enter the USA using your old employer’s H1B stamp is still valid. 
• Show the approved H1B transfer i797 at the immigration counter at the port of entry to get the i94 with the H1B transfer expiry date. 
• If the immigration officer entertains your request, you are good. 
• If not, your i94 will be restricted to the old H1B’s expiry date.

This will be a problem as you will have to either file another H1B transfer to get a new i94 or travel outside the USA again and get transferred H1B stamped in your passport.

#2 Change of Employer Transfer DENIED

If the H1B application is denied while you are traveling, you can only re-enter the USA if your existing H1B visa is still valid at the time of re-entry.

If you have moved on to a new employer, based on receipt, your old employer would have already withdrawn your H1B approval.

You will NOT be able to enter the USA if it’s already revoked.

#3 H1B Transfer PENDING

There is a high risk if you have already started working with a new employer on receipt.

The immigration officer may deny your entry as you do not have the approved H1B for your current new employer.

The post Travel while H1B Pending is allowed (Extension, Transfer, Amendment, COS) appeared first on AM22Tech.

Concurrent H1B is different than two separate H1B approvals which you normally have in case you get the H1B transfer approved along with the extension.

What is Concurrent H1B?

Concurrent H1B means that one or more employers employ an H-1B worker at the same time.

USCIS allows you to work on multiple jobs if you have approved ‘CONCURRENT‘ H1Bs.

This can be understood as:

1. Primary H1B (This H1B is not required to know about secondary employer)
2. Secondary H1B (This H1B i-129 application form should have explicit mention of primary H1B employer)

Example:

A Software Engineer working with Employer A’s H1B full-time can also work as a system consultant for Employer B.

FAQ

The post Multiple H1B Jobs at Same Time In Different Fields (Concurrent H1B) appeared first on AM22Tech.

This acts as a cover letter to send with your medical RFE. Since it has your receipt barcode, USCIS can easily scan it and find your application file quickly.

You can use our app to generate this medical RFE interfiling cover letter and keep it on top of the i693 package that a USCIS-approved Civil doctor would have given you.

You can also use this letter if you send medical records in response to USCIS RFE (Request for Evidence).

Sample Green Card Medical Letter

You can use this sample medical interfile cover letter to attach to your sealed medical envelope.

Make sure that you change the values as per your case.

Note that the current status of your i485 application should be ‘Pending’. You can check the current status on the USCIS case status website here by using your receipt number.

Receipt Barcode Required?

Printing a receipt and A number barcode is optional.

• Adding a Barcode helps USCIS scan and locate your Green card file easily.
• Attorneys recommend it to make it easier for USCIS.

Sample Barcode printed on medical interfile letter:

USCIS Processing Time After Medical Interfile

The processing time varies a lot with the service center and the officer who is working on your case.

However, it has been seen that once your medical reaches the USCIS service center, the processing time can be anytime between 10-60 days for green card approval.

Many people wait for the medical RFE to be issued by USCIS.

We recommend sending it without waiting for RFE to increase your chances of getting ahead in the i485 queue.

It saves time by cutting down all the time consumed by medical RFE.

Does the USCIS case status update after interfile is accepted by USCIS?

It is not guaranteed that you will see a case status update. Sometimes, it does update though.

It can take anywhere from 1-30 days for them to process your mail.

You might see a USCIS case status update like this once your medical interfile letter has been delivered by mail service to USCIS:

Can USCIS send an RFE even after receiving my Medical Interfile?

Yes, they can send an RFE for medical even after receiving your medical interfile.

To mitigate this situation, we recommend getting two copies of your medical from the doctor.

Send one as interfile and keep the other as a backup in case USCIS sends an RFE.

Medical Validity

Doctor signature 60-day rule

On Mar 31, 2023, USCIS removed the 60-day rule of doctor signature. This means that i693 will be accepted even if the doctor signed it more than 60 days ago.

Earlier, the i693 form was considered valid only if the doctor had signed it within 60 days of submitting it to USCIS. There is no such requirement now after 31 Mar 2023.

Medical Expiry Date

The medical form does not expire. In 2024, USCIS announced that once a medical is submitted, it remains valid for its life if submitted in 2024 or later.

Earlier, this term was 2 years (before 2024) and USCIS used to ask for new medicals every two years if i-485 remained pending.

Medical Cover Letter App

You can write this letter yourself or use our app to create one for you.

The app creates a PDF file that can be printed on a plain A4 size white or colored paper sheet.

It is okay even if you use plain white standard paper.

Interfiling Risks vs Benefits

Please note that there is no official medical interfiling process designed or published by USCIS.

The interfiling simply means that you send the documents as per your wish and then request USCIS to add them to your file. All this is done without USCIS requesting these documents through the official process of RFE (request for evidence).

Since it is an unsolicited request, USCIS may or may not add these documents to your file.

Many people have seen success with sending the i485 medicals without RFE but there is no guarantee.

Also, your attorney may or may not agree to send it without RFE. So, it is entirely your choice. You can send the medical interfile letter directly yourself without asking your attorney to do it.

Benefits of interfiling

There is a 50% chance that your interfiled medical application will end up in your green card file at the USCIS service center.

Now, a 50% chance is a very good chance given that there are thousands of applications waiting to receive medical RFE.

If your interfile request is successful, then your file has a better chance of

• Getting ahead in the queue even though your PD date or the i485 receipt maybe after someone who has an earlier PD date.
• The USCIS officer working on your case may not issue medical RFE at all if they see your interfiled medical in your file. This will easily save about 30 days of processing time on your case.

Risks of interfiling

There is virtually no risk in sending the i693 form without an RFE except that you may lose the doctor’s fee if USCIS does not add it to your file.

The Doctor usually charges about $350 per application and you stand to lose it. We know that most Indians will happily take this risk even if it gives them a slight chance to get ahead in line.

• Your pending i485 application will not see any adverse effect simply because you tried to interfile.
• USCIS will issue the medical RFE. In this case, you will have to redo the medical and send it with an RFE letter.

Our Suggestion

Send the sealed medical letter along with the cover letter and the i485 receipt bar code.

There is nothing to lose here. Just try every possible option to help move your application ahead in the queue and get a green card faster. You may have waited for a decade for your Green card. Do not leave any stone unturned to push your application forward.

We understand that this effort may go to waste but think of the situation where it may get accepted. Your application will certainly save time and may get approved earlier than others.

USCIS Interfiling Address

You should ideally send the medical interfile package to the address printed on your i485 receipt notice. The service center address will be mentioned in the bottom left corner of the i-485 receipt notice.

Sending to USCIS Field Office?

You can also send it to the USCIS field office if your green card file has been transferred. You should confirm this by first checking with USCIS Emma chat.

How to Get Your File’s Field Office Location?

To ask for the current location of your Green card file from Emma’s agent, follow these steps:

• Visit uscis.gov and click the “Ask Emma” button to start chatting with Emma’s agent.
• Once the chat box is open, type “representative“.
• When you see the list of options, click “case status“.
• Click “connect to live chat” and enter your i-485 receipt number.
• When prompted for your request, type “location of file“.
• At this time, you should be connected to a live agent.
• Ask them “I would like to know where my I-485 file is right now“? The agent should provide the service center’s name or local field office.
• Once you know the field office, ask them if they have the office’s address. If they give it, use it to send your medical interfile letter. If they can’t give the address, you can search it on the USCIS website by field office name or search on Google.

FAQ

The post USCIS Medical Interfile with Barcode for Pending i485 (Send without RFE) appeared first on AM22Tech.