The H4 visa interview is one of the most important steps to follow for spouses and dependents of H1B visa holders who want to join their loved ones in, the US.
Although it may sound intimidating, it’s really just a way to learn about your relationship, background and intent. They are very interested in your personal background information and marriage history, knowing the common questions can go a long way in ensuring you walk into the interview room with confidence.
Here’s what to expect and how to prep to win.
Table of contents
What is an H4 Visa?
The H4 visa is a dependent visa given by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to the immediate family members (spouse and children under 21) of H1B visa holders. In a nutshell, it enables the dependents to remain together as dependents of the primary visa holder living and working in the U.S. on an H1B visa.
A H4 visa entitles the holder to reside, study, and occasionally also work in the US. But the path to this visa requires an important interview screening, as visa officers evaluate the authenticity of your relationship, your background, and your intentions.
If you have religious work in the US, you should read: How to Go from R1 Visa to Green Card? All You Need to Know!
Who is Eligible for the H4 Visa in the US?
The following are persons eligible for H-4 visa:
Spouses of H-1B, H-1B, H-1C, H-2A, H-2B, and H-3 visa holders:
If you are legally married to one of these specific types of work visa holders, you might qualify for an H-4 visa.
H4 Visa for H-1B, H-1B, H-1C, H-2A, H-2B, and H-3 Visa holders in unmarried categories:
This applies only when you are unmarried and your age is less than 21 years of age, you can apply for an H4 visa.
There might have some extra eligibility criteria for H-4 visa as well:
Valid primary work visa status
The primary work visa holder is in valid, lawful status, meaning they have not violated the terms of their visa and have not overstayed their authorized period of stay in the U.S.
Financial sponsorship required
The primary worker visa holder must show sufficient evidence demonstrating that they can financially support their H4 dependent, as H-4 visa holders are not authorized to work in the United States unless they have approved work authorization from USCIS.
No criminal record
The H-4 visa applicant must not have a criminal record that makes them inadmissible to the U.S.
Please note that eligibility requirements with respect to each H4 visa applicant can vary as per individual circumstances; also additional requirements may apply as per the country of origin and the U.S. Embassy or consulate where the processing would be taking place.
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H-4 Visa Cost
The current filing fee for an H-4 visa is $205 with the government. Please note that this fee is subject to change, and you should confirm the costs with the U.S. Embassy or consulate in your country as to what fees to expect for the H4 visa process.
H-4 Visa Processing Time
For international applicants:
Processing times for H-4 visa applications vary by U.S. Embassy or consulate. Visa appointment wait times for your U.S. Embassy or consulate can be checked on the State Department’s website here.
NOTE: You won’t get your H4 visa until the application of the primary work visa holder has been filed and approved. In addition to the ability to work in U.S., along with that, H-4 visa holders can also file Form I-765 for an EAD (Employment Authorization Document).
H-4 EAD Processing Time
A pending H-4 EAD filed with an H4 Form I-539 change of status currently takes 4 months on average while a standalone H-4 EAD currently takes 6 months on average.
Processing times for H-4 Employment
Authorization Document (EAD) vary based on the service center to which you are applying.
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H-4 Visa Process
The actual H-4 visa process can depend on a number of factors related to the applicant, but the application process generally includes the following steps:
Find out your eligibility
Make sure that you are eligible for an H-4 visa as the spouse or child of an H-1B visa holder.
Collect the necessary documents
Compile the necessary documents, including a valid passport, nonimmigrant visa application form, and additional documents required by the U.S. Embassy or consulate you plan to apply for the visa. This can include marriage and birth certificates, police certificates, and proof of financial support.
Submit your application
The online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form (Form DS-160), fees.
You will need to schedule an appointment for an interview at the U.S. Embassy or consulate where you will apply for the H4 visa.
Visa Interview
Attend the visa interview and provide any necessary documentation and information. The consular officer will evaluate your application and decide on your visa application.
Get your visa
If your visa application is approved, you will receive your H-4 visa affixed in your passport. In case your visa application is refused, the consular officer will give you a reason for denial.
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H4 Visa Interview Questions
#1. Personal Information H4 Visa Interview Questions
What is your full name?
Where were you born?
Has there been a time you traveled out from your country?
When is your date of birth?
Do you have any siblings?
What do you do now?
Have you ever been refused a U.S. visa previously?
What are you doing now?
Where do you live?
Best Way to Answer:
Don’t take yourself too seriously. Answers should be brief and honest.
Documents Required:
- Passport
- Birth Certificate
- Educational Certificates
Read also: What is the Difference Between a Certificate and a Certification?
#2. Marriage H4 Visa Interview Questions
Where and when did you get married?
Was the marriage one of love or an arranged marriage?
How many guests did you have at your wedding?
Could you please show me your wedding album?
Which destination did you choose for your honeymoon?
How did you meet your spouse?
How long have you known each other?
What gifts did you give each other for the wedding?
Do you currently live together?
Do you have any children?
Best Way to Answer:
Speak naturally. Share authentic stories using empathy but keep it short. Remember, to be honest.
Documents Required:
- Wedding Certificate
- Wedding Photos/Album
- Joint Financial Documents
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#3. Questions About Your Spouse (H1B Visa Holder)
What is your spouse’s full name?
Where does your spouse work?
What is their job title?
How long have they been at the job?
What is their salary?
What is their visa status?
How often do they visit you?
When did they immigrate to the U.S.?
Have they ever switched jobs in the U.S.?
Are there any legal issues in their past you are aware of?
Best Way to Answer:
Make sure you’re precise and consistent with your answer. This is an opportunity for them to know how well and close you are with your spouse.
Documents Required:
- Spouse H1B Approval Notice (I-797)
- Pay Stubs
- Letter of Employment Verification
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#4. Travel and Intentions Visa Interview Questions
Why do you want to come to the U.S.?
Have you booked flight tickets?
Where will you be staying while in the U.S.?
How long are you planning to be there?
Will you work in the U.S.?
Do you have previous visits to the U.S.?
Who will sponsor your trip?
What will you be doing in the U.S.?
Are you going back to your home country?
Are you going to apply for Green Card?
Best Way to Answer:
Answer in a way to show that your visit is temporary and authentic. The main reason should be family reunification.
Documents Required:
- Flight Itinerary
- Proof of Accommodation
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#5. Financial Status H4 Visa Interview Questions
Who is financially supporting you?
What is your spouse’s income?
Do you have any savings?
Do you own property in your home country?
Will you work in the U.S.?
How much money will you bring with you?
Can you live without your spouse’s paycheck if they lose their job?
What is your spouse’s account balance?
Do you and your spouse have joint bank accounts?
Do you have any dependents?
Best Way to Answer:
Emphasize financial stability. Include savings, assets and a stable income from your spouse.
Documents Required:
- Bank Statements
- Property Documents
- Spouse’s Pay Stubs
Read also: Must-Know B2 Visa Interview Questions for First-Time Applicants
#6. Lifestyle and Future Plans H4 Visa Interview Questions
What are your future plans?
Are you going to study in the U.S.?
Are you going to work if you get EAD approval?
What are some things you do in your spare time?
Have you done research about life in the U.S.?
What will your adjustment to life in the U.S. be like?
What are you going to miss about your home country?
Do you have friends or family members who live in the U.S.?
Is your home country a place you go often?
Do you have some long term goals?
Best Way to Answer:
Try to show that your goals are realistic. Also show that you have a very positive mindset towards adapting to life in the U.S.
Documents Required:
- Educational Certificates
- EAD Application if applicable
Read also: Family-Based Immigration in the U.S- Sponsorship & Visa
Mistakes to Avoid to Get Your H4 Visa Approved
- Lack of Preparation. Rehearse common questions so you don’t get thrown off.
- Inconsistent Information. Make sure your answers are consistent with the information in your documents.
- Overcomplicating Answers. Avoid long and detailed answers.
- Nervous Body Language. Look them in the eye and speak with confidence.
- Inadequate Documentation. Keep all essential documents well organized.
- Dishonesty. Always be truthful. An incorrect information could get you rejected for visa.
- Prepare well, walk confidently, and have your documents in place. You’ve got this!
If you are considering Autsralia, you can also read: Permanent Residency in Australia: A Complete Guide
FAQs On the H4 Visa
H-4 visa beneficiaries are barred from employment in the United States unless they obtain employment authorization from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). H4 Visa holders can File the Form I-765 to Apply for Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Once approved, H4 visa holders would be able to work for any employer in the U.S. because the EAD is an “open work permit” not tied to any specific employer or position, unlike the H-1B.
Yes, an H-4 can study in U. S. H4 visa holders are allowed to go for academic courses, such as at colleges, universities and vocational schools, part-time or full-time.
Since the H-4 visa eligibility is predicated on the primary H-1B visa holder’s status, losing status as an H-1B visa holder can also mean losing status as an H-4 visa holder. In this case, the primary work visa holder may be able to look for a new employer, and “port” their H-1B status to a new job.
Conclusion
The H4 visa interview isn’t designed to trip you up — it is just about verifying your relationship and genuine intent to live in the U.S. With some preparation and the right answers, you can pass it with ease. Confidence is simply knowing what to expect, so remember that. So practice well, stay calm and soon you will be packing your bags for your next adventure!
If you feel the U.S is not for you, you can try another country. Read this: Working in Australia: Complete Guide
References
- Bankbazzar- H4 Visa Interview Questions and Answers
- Atlys- Key H4 Visa Interview Questions with Tips on how to answer
- Digit Insurance- H4 Visa Interview Questions and Answers
