Are you coming on the H-4 visa ?

April 30th, 2007 | by Ridhima Suri |
  • Are you an Indian trying to come to the U.S. on an H4 (Dependent) Visa ?
  • Are you getting married to a person on an H 1 Visa and coming to the U.S. immediately, or few months after the marriage?

I have found myself counseling or consulting friends on the issue of marriage a lot more since my own wedding. I am online more often on Yahoo! Or Google Talk chatting with friends, trying to give them a picture of what lies ahead. Many of my friends are getting married soon and planning to come to the U.S. on a dependent visa. Many of my husband’s friends are getting married and traveling with their newly-wed partners to the U.S. as well.

All of them have the same questions, worries, and anxieties as I did before coming to the U.S. I still have them but I feel I can now guide others  who are in the same shoes as me now that I have spent an year here. I thought why not put it up here on the blog. So here I am!!

Here is a list of questions you may have:

Questions before reaching US

  1. What is an H4 Visa ?
  2. How to apply for an H4 visa ?
  3. What formalities to be completed after marriage ?
  4. How to prepare for the Visa Interview at the U.S. embassy ?
  5. Are you getting married to a person with an H1 ? Bridal confusions
  6. What to take to the US to wear ?
  7. What about jewellery ?
  8. Should I take utensils ?
  9. Are there personal grooming places there ?
  10. How is the weather?
  11. So on and so forth!

Issues after coming to the US

  1. 6. Finding an apartment.
  2. Furnishing your apartment.
  3. Making friends.
  4. Joblessness
  5. Yet, there are many things to do and learn
  6. Face the driving test.
  7. The money conversion I $ = ? Rs.
  8. So on and so forth!

I will try to address these questions in a random order. (much shall depend on my mood!!)

My husband proposed to give a HUM-TUM style to this project, by giving a GUYS’ opinion, whenever, and if at all he felt like quipping in!! Anyways, here is the GIRLS’ view…….In the following post I shall address some issues for newly married girls….:)

You can apply for the H4 visa. For more information please visit the following links:

U.S. Embassy in New Delhi: newdelhi.usembassy.gov
U.S. Consulate General in Chennai: chennai.usconsulate.gov
U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai: mumbai.usconsulate.gov
U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata: kolkata.usconsulate.gov

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  1. 80 Responses to “Are you coming on the H-4 visa ?”

  2. By name on Aug 31, 2008 | Reply

    Hello!,

  3. By RANI on Sep 2, 2008 | Reply

    Hi,
    I am rani,i came to US couple of days back on h4 visa .I am nurse by profession in INDIA. I didnt appear for NCLEX RN.I would like to work as LPN or CNA in hospitals . please let me know how to proceed to apply for job.
    Thank you,

  4. By RANI on Sep 2, 2008 | Reply

    HI, icame to india on h4 visa .let know how to apply for job in us . i am nurse by profession in INDIA . i didnt get by NCLX exam .I would like to work as LPN or CNA

  5. By Anonymous on Sep 2, 2008 | Reply

    Hi Rani,

    You will have to look for jobs locally and apply. You can tell them that you do not have a work permit and would like them to apply for your H1. See how it goes. Jobs are easy to come if you already have a work authorisation visa (not in the case of H4 visa) but there is no harm in trying.

    Good luck!

  6. By Ridhima Suri on Sep 2, 2008 | Reply

    I am sure there are a lot of opportunities. The challenge is to convert your visa..:) Look for local jobs in your area on Craigslist,Sulekha and Yahoo Jobs.

    Feel free to get back if you have any further questions.

    Wish you good luck!

  7. By Bharati on Oct 7, 2008 | Reply

    Hi,
    I will be getting married in a couple of months. My would-be is wrk’g in US and I plan to apply for H4 visa. Could you please tel me as to when do I need to go about the procedure for change in surname, address etc. I am currently in Hyderabad and my would-be is from Chennai. Do I need to change the address before I apply for visa? When shall I get my surname changed and how? Thank you!

  8. By Bharati on Oct 8, 2008 | Reply

    Is it possible to get a part-time job and then later apply for a full-time job in US provided the Co. takes up the procedure for gettin a H1-B visa done?

  9. By Ridhima Suri on Oct 24, 2008 | Reply

    Dear Bharti,

    Do you already have a passport with your maiden name? The visa process gets a little stretched if you wish to change your name in the passport as well. Maybe you can keep your maiden name so that none of the old documents need to be changed. Otherwise you can get your surname changed once you get married or get a marriage certificate.

    I wish you all the best.

  10. By Aroon Reddy on Nov 29, 2008 | Reply

    Hi All,

    My wife got H1b Visa in kolkata I am working in hyderabad, Planning to attend or H4 visa. Can you tell me what are the documents required and the questions , because as I am husband and not allowed to work in the US on H4 so there will be many questions…..please tell me the questions and answeres for thos tipical questions….

    Thank You

    Aroon

  11. By rachana on Jan 2, 2009 | Reply

    hi i am in usa since last 1 year on h4 visa can i apply to local stores for job is it possible any how to get a job here legally

  12. By Deja Vu on Jan 7, 2009 | Reply

    Hi,

    I am a Business Analyst by profession after pursuing my MBA and being a Software Engineer before that. I am getting married and moving to US by March first week on H4 visa, unfortunately as my company currently does not have any opportunity in same region where my husband works. There are certain questions I would like you to answer:
    1. While being in US, Can I work for Indian clients?
    2. What is the best way of finding jobs in US?
    3. What are the options available for doing something while on H4 – Do we have good voluntary work? Online Work?

    Thanks a lot

  13. By jagu on Jan 10, 2009 | Reply

    hi
    my husband has gone to US on h1b visa on july 2008. but due to some problems he has not got any projdct yet… is it possible for me to get h4 visa for me & my son who is 3 yrs old?

  14. By kunjan on Jan 25, 2009 | Reply

    i m a house wife .i had completed my graduation with economics and had did software programming course from india5-6years back. Afer marraige and due family life and careing for kid stuff i liked to enjoy my family life here in USA.
    we r here(USA) since 2 years with my husband he is on h1b visa .
    can i get job permit visa from india if my husband is alredy having h1b visa?
    i and my son on dependent visa (h4 visa)and shortly my and my sons visa r getting expired and i want to work from home so babysitting/child careing and so we r going to india to renew visa this time and i want a babysitting job permit in USA so what should i do?and which visa i should apply?

  15. By lavanya on Jan 28, 2009 | Reply

    hi, this blog is really help ful… its a real helping hand for people like me who aish to apply for h4..
    i would like to apply for h4,my wuld-be is presently on h1. i m going to get married in august, my husaband can stay only for 10 days in india. so, can i get the h4 in that period so i cn go along with him after marriage

  16. By Ridhima on Feb 13, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Rachna: A person on an H4 visa cannot work for a paid job. Of course many stores hire people on H4 visa but I would not label that as ‘LEGAL’.

    Hi Deja Vu: My answer to your question is same as above. Typically a person on an H4 does not have a US authorized work permit. However you may want to come here and apply to companies. Typically H1s are filed in March each year and are approved by August-October. You may also want to check job sites or consult local recruiters and job hunters. You can find great volunteering opportunities in an area of your choice. If you need help for volunteering websites please send me a message. I will post relevant links on this message board. By the way..Congratulations for your wedding!

    Hi Jagu: You will have to consult the lawyers in your husband’s company. If a person is working in the US on an H1B visa he/she can legally be accompanied by a dependent spouse/child on a H4 visa. Should be possible! Good Luck!

    Hi Kunjan: Thanks for the note. You must know that for a legal job in child care you need college credits. Please get your visas renewed and think about applying to college for a course in ‘CHILD DEVELOPMENT’, ‘PRIMARY EDUCATION’, ‘KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION’ etc.

    People do work at home for cash. But Day Care is not an easy task: it is better to ‘be careful than sorry’. People trust day care providers who are certified, CPR trained and can provide a congenial environment for their children. Try to test the market around and see how others are operating. I wish you good luck!

    Hello Lavanya: Thanks for the encouragement.

    1. Generally it is better to apply for the visa interview date before hand (time it for after the marriage).

    2. Get married….:-)

    3. Obtain the Marriage certificate and other proof of marriage.

    4. Then go for the visa interview. If you have all the documents in place you should get the H4 visa in time and fly back with your husband!

    Congratulations in advance! Let me know if you have any other queries. Would be happy to help you.

    Best Regards
    Ridhima

  17. By jagu on Feb 19, 2009 | Reply

    hello ridhima
    thank u for ur kind reply…iam praying gor for good luck

  18. By Ridhima on Feb 23, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Jagu,

    Please feel free to get in touch if you have any other concerns. I will be happy to send you some ‘local’ weblinks which can be helpful once you get here.

    If you have any questions about the H$ visa interview, let me know.

    Best Regards,
    Ridhima

  19. By Samit on Feb 26, 2009 | Reply

    Hi..
    Im samit..currently im having B1/B2 visa, also I was in USA from july08 and recently got back..
    I have few questions..can you please help me to get answers for that..
    1) Can I apply for H4 when I already hold B1/B2,which is valid till year 2016.
    2) Can I work if I go on H4.(as somesays that H4 holder can work after 6 mnths)
    3) Can you guide me anyother way to get back to USA as my wife is there past 3yrs and we want to be together.

    Please let me know ur feedback..

    Thanks,

    Samit

  20. By lakshmi on Feb 26, 2009 | Reply

    hi,

    am lakshmi.. i would like to apply for h4 now. am getting married soon… currently my hubby is holding h1b… is there any possibility to do part time jobs in US…

    and i want to know which type of stuff should i buy.. like jewellery,clothes,shoes etc…

    can u tell me clearly…

    thanks in advance…

  21. By Mathangi on Mar 3, 2009 | Reply

    Hi,
    I am getting married this July and will be coming to US with my hubby in July end. I am kinda worried about my carrer and feel that am gonna take a break in the wrong time. am jus 2.5 yrs expd in IT industry. If not work, will I be able to do any part time course, or pursue MBA? If so what is the various things i need to do and can u suggest some universities in and around NJ.

    Thanks.

  22. By Ridhima on Mar 5, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Samit,

    Thanks for your questions. I will try my best to give you a clear picture on the H1B/H4 visas.

    1) Can I apply for H4 when I already hold B1/B2,which is valid till year 2016.

    Yes you can but please remember you cannot work on an H4 visa. You may consider applying for an H1B instead. Talk to the lawyer in your company…an H1 is far better than an H4 visa.

    2) Can I work if I go on H4.(as somesays that H4 holder can work after 6 mnths)

    No an H4 visa is a ‘dependent visa’ and the visa holder cannot legally work on the same. You can however work on an H1 visa. Normally such visas are sponsored for 3 years. Much depends on your current work place.

    3) Can you guide me anyother way to get back to USA as my wife is there past 3yrs and we want to be together.

    You have three options. First I think it is best for you to travel on frequent trips on a B1. Second you may consider applying for an H1 visa. Last if your wife is on an H1 B visa in US you can come on a dependent visa or an H4.

    For all I know its best to avoid the H4 visa route as the visaholder is not allowed to hold a legal job. Try for the H1 visa. Let me know if you have any other questions. I wish you good luck!

  23. By Ridhima Suri on Mar 5, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Lakshmi,

    Congratulations! Well if you are coming on the H4 visa you cannot work in the U.S. ‘Possibility’..I would say yes. People do work on ‘for cash’ basis. You will understand the system when you actually come here. For now just enjoy your wedding.

    Where are you likely to be based in US? I would suggest not to go all out in buying expensive Indian clothing and jewellery. For more information please read my post titled ‘Bridal Confusions: H4 visa’

    Enjoy yourself!

    Mathangi:

    Good question. First of all many congratulations!

    There are many opportunities in your line of work. You may want to get into part time consultancy as well. Also you can apply to universities and study in the session starting next spring/fall. Please make sure you bring your transcripts and letters of recommendation.

    Yes the ‘not working; part is a bummer on an H4. At the same time you may find many interests to pursue. Let me know once you are here. I will suggest some local websites which may be of help.

    I hope my replies were helpful to everyone.
    Thank you,
    Ridhima

    thanks in advance…

  24. By aarti on Mar 17, 2009 | Reply

    hi
    i am getting married to a person living in US. He had H1B VISA.I wanted to know the procedure, requirements, criterias and everything which is needed, so that i can go with him after my marriage. i dont have any visa with me at this time , so kindly advice me which visa will be suitable .
    Thanks & regards
    aarti

  25. By aarti on Mar 17, 2009 | Reply

    HI
    I wanted to know about the procedures, requirements and criterias and everything which is required for getting a dependent visa.Since I am getting married to person in US with H1B visa.
    thanks & regards
    aarti

  26. By samit on Mar 18, 2009 | Reply

    Hi..My fionce is in usa and she is employed,but she cannot file HI this year, she will be filing next year.
    My Questions are;
    1)Can I go on her dependant visa (H4)?
    2)What do I need to keep things ready?
    3)Can I work or do any job which help us to gain me few dollors a month?
    4) Can I be able to travel to india as and when req?
    5)Currently I hold B1/B2 visa and I have travelled 3 thrice in last year, will that obstruct by anyway to get me H4 visa.
    6) She stays in florida,what can be my port of entry?

    Request you to guide me for the same.

    Thanks,

  27. By Ridhima Suri on Mar 27, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Samit,

    Typically a person on an H4 does not have a US authorized work permit. However you may want to come here and apply to companies. Typically H1s are filed in March each year and are approved by August-October. You may also want to check job sites or consult local recruiters and job hunters. You can find great volunteering opportunities in an area of your choice. If you need help for volunteering websites please send me a message. I will post relevant links on this message board.

    1. Yes you can go on a dependent visa (H4)

    2. Keep your passport and education related certificates, work ex, CV etc ready. Apply for an appointment in the U.S. embassy. You will have to make a draft with a specified fee. Please check the website for more details on this.

    3. As I mentioned before a person is not allowed to work on an H4 visa as there is no work permit on this visa.

    4.Yes you can travel to India for the duration of the visa (typically 1-3 years).

    5. Hopefully the B1/B2 visa should not pose a problem. Much will depend on how the interview for H4 visa goes.

    6. Your port of entry will depend on your flight. If you are taking a direct flight into Florida, that is your POE.

    You must consult a lawyer for more details. However for real experiences please feel free to leave a message here. Thank you.

  28. By Ridhima Suri on Mar 27, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Aarti,

    For more information please browse the comments on this blog post. For starters keep your papers in place, apply for the visa interview, and prepare for the interview itself. The H4 visa interview process is generally quick and easy if you follow all the procedures and meet the requirements (the most important being that you have no intention to work in the U.S.)
    Let me know if you have any specific queries.
    Thank you,
    Ridhima

  29. By Naty on Mar 31, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Ridhima,

    Really happy that your blog has given me a pretty good insite into what i can expect when i land in the US. Well for now, i plan on a court marriage with my fiance in may this year. After that i intend to get my passport changed with his name and details and apply to the consulate myself for the H4 visa. I understand the document requirements but I needed to know if there is a need to have “Ceremony Pictures” and Wedding Invitation (both sides) as i will not be having both. However, I will be taking pictures of our court marriage with the lawyer, family etc. Is that ok????? Or will there be any issue regarding not having the ritual pics or invite???

  30. By Ridhima Suri on Apr 1, 2009 | Reply

    Naty

    Many Congrats.

    For applying for the visa interview and a name change you do not need any of these. You must complete the paperwork involved in both the processes.

    However at the time of the visa interview ideally people do carry the ceremony pictures and invitation cards if possible. If these are not available court marriage pictures should be fine. Let me know if you have further questions or concerns.

    Good Luck!

  31. By Neeraja on Apr 2, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Ridhima,

    I am in NJ for the last 3 months on H4 visa. I could’nt file my H1B this year as no one was ready to sponsor my H1B.I am a Banker with 15 yrs exp and one year in IT as Business Analyst.

    What are the best options available for me to utlise my time properly.

    I would like to invest money in stocks listed in US market. How can I open a trading account? Which is the best one? pls suggest.

    Thanks and Best Regards,

    Neeraja

  32. By Ridhima Suri on Apr 2, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Neeraja,

    Thanks for the message.

    On your H4 visa you may choose to pursue further studies, open a bank/trading account, volunteer for causes of your interest, etc. You can also open a trading account in say Zecco, Scottrade, etc. Some trading companies charge for a fee for opening an account and others do not charge any fee.

    While applying for this account you may need to carry your passport, visa papers, state ID (if available) and ITIN documents. If you do not have the ITIN I suggest you apply quickly. An ITIN makes paperwork a lot easier and quicker.

    If you have any other question feel free to post here.

    Good Luck!
    Thanks,
    Ridhima

  33. By Neelam on May 18, 2009 | Reply

    Hi.
    I am getting married in Nov. My fiance’s H1B has got approved this year. i want to go wid him when he comes for visa stamping in Nov.
    so want to apply for H4 visa. Request you to let me knw, when i should start the process for application.

    Thanks

  34. By Ridhima Suri on May 22, 2009 | Reply

    Hello Neelam,

    Ideally you can apply for the H4 visa after getting married. However you may want to speed up the process by getting married in the Court. Once you have the Marriage Certificate and other documents you can apply to the US Consulate. This way you can be done with the interview process much much before November!

    For more details please read my post on ‘H4 Visa documents’.

    Good Luck and Congrats!

  35. By saranya on May 30, 2009 | Reply

    hi

    this is saranya .am gona get married on dec 2009 my better half is h1 visa holder.how can i apply for B4 SPOUSE Visa?can u please tell the processing time and procedure to get B4 VISA?

    REGARDS
    SARANYA

  36. By saranya on May 30, 2009 | Reply

    hi

    this is saranya .am gona get married on dec 2009 my better half is h1 visa holder.how can i apply for h4 SPOUSE Visa?can u please tell the processing time and procedure to get h4 VISA?

    REGARDS
    SARANYA

  37. By Ridhima Suri on May 30, 2009 | Reply

    Dear Saranya,

    Good question! There is a wealth of information on how to apply for the H4 visa on this blog. Once you go to the Home page, you will see a list of categories on the right side of the page. You will then find a tab titled ‘H4 Visa Related’. I have posted 9 articles to help a person looking for more information on the H4 Visa. I believe the posts titled ‘documents required for the H4 Visa’ and ‘H4 Interview process’ is most relevant for you at this time.

    If you have any further questions, please leave a message on this board.

    Thank you.
    Ridhima

  38. By meeta on Jun 5, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Ridhima,

    I came last to US last year on H4 visa.I know that there is no work permit for H4 visa holders.However, Can you help me finding more information regarding jobs sponsors for H1 or any voluntry work where I can start working to gain experience.

    regards,
    meeta

  39. By Ridhima Suri on Jun 5, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Meeta,

    I am not sure about your field of interest. Here are some quick tips.

    1. If you are in the IT field you may want to apply directly to companies or work with a consultant. Try Sulekha.com for listings by consultants.

    2. For voluntary work you may want to browse listings on http://www.craigslist.com. Explore the listings in the section ‘volunteers’. You may also want to enroll on Big Brothers Big Sisters. Here is the link
    http://www.bbbs.org/site/c.diJKKYPLJvH/b.1539751/k.BDB6/Home.htm

    Let me know if you have any other questions.

    Thank you.
    -Ridhima

  40. By Priyasha on Jun 29, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Ridhima,

    I want to know how safe it is to work on H4 visa..? As I plan to study further and also want to look for a parttime job for myself. I have seen few of my frds who are on H4 working for few grocery stores and one of even got a job in Indian Counsualte…so I dunt think it is very risky else why would a govt organisation hire H4 ppl..?! But still would appreciate if you could throw some light on this as I am quiet confused right now.

    Thanks

  41. By Ridhima Suri on Jun 29, 2009 | Reply

    IANAL

    Hi Priyansha,

    Thanks for the message.

    As discussed earlier on this board, on your H4 visa you may choose to pursue further studies, open a bank/trading account, volunteer for causes of your interest, etc. You can also open a trading account in say Zecco, Scottrade, etc.

    Honestly if you want to study further, get an F1 visa and then work part time on it. I am not sure how your acquaintance got a job with a govt agency on an H4 (seems impossible..there must have been a transfer of visa). I do know, for sure, that working on the dependent visa is risky, and not correct, as per the laws of this country. I know it is horrible but then it is part of what everyone calls ‘living the American dream’..:)

    Thank you.

  42. By Priyasha on Jun 30, 2009 | Reply

    Thanks for the reply Ridhima.

    I have started collecting info abt the universities, will start applying soon. My husbands company will be applying for his GC soon so will there be any problem later my GC if I get F1 visa for joining college?
    And regarding my friend, she is also on H4 visa and she moved US few months back only..as she is a fresh graduate from college so she was not working back in india. Infact few more people told me that Indian counsulate in SFO does hire h4 people on cash and sometimes they also try to sponsor visa for few ppl…sounds weird..but may be its true.
    Initially my frd wanted me to come and join counsulate as there was some vacany, but I did not want to take risk so declined, but at times I feel I should have joined as working somewhre is defineitly better then sitting at home.

    Thanks
    Priyasha

  43. By Ridhima Suri on Jun 30, 2009 | Reply

    IANAL

    Dear Priyasha,

    Thanks for the message. Why don’t you follow up with her on that job? It really looks like a promising opportunity to me given that they work out a visa transfer.

    As far as the F1 and GC is concerned there should not be any problem. I assume that by the time the GC will be approved you would have finished your studies, and hopefully, landed a job/internship. Please check with your company lawyer on this.

    I concur that the H4 visa has its vices. But there is a lot to do as well. Study. Do intensive research. Join a volunteer group. Work for a cause in that organization. Write a book. Travel. Explore new places. The world is the limit…:)

    Thank you.
    I wish you good luck!

  44. By Aakrati on Jul 16, 2009 | Reply

    Hi All,
    I am getting married in Oct and i have to fly to US with my husband(on H1 VISA) immediately after marriage therefore i want to fill forms and take interview date ASAP. Please let me know what should i mention in my forms for H4 VISA a. unmarried b. Married.

    Thanks

  45. By Ridhima Suri on Jul 16, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Aakrati,

    Good Luck and Congrats!
    You can apply to the US Consulate and write ‘married’ in your application if you will be married on the date of interview. The form applies to your status on the date of the visa interview.
    For more details please read my post on ‘H4 Visa documents’. Thank you.

  46. By Aakrati on Jul 16, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Ridhima,
    Thanks a lot for your guidance. :-)

  47. By kiruthiga on Jul 31, 2009 | Reply

    Hi,
    i am working in a software company in india. and my husband has H1 visa and going to travel in september of this year.can i get any job in IT company as part time or full time in US?

  48. By Ridhima Suri on Aug 1, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Kiruthiga,
    In your field there are a lot of opportunities. My only concern is the challenge is to convert your H4 visa into the H1 visa, especially as the economy is slow and hiring process at a backburner. Nevertheless, look for local jobs in your area on Craigslist,Sulekha and Yahoo Jobs and showcase your skill sets in your resume.

    The other route is to go through an IT consultant for a job.

    Feel free to get back if you have any further questions. You will also find many interesting answers on this forum.

    Wish you good luck!

  49. By kiruthiga on Aug 3, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Ridhima Suri,
    Thanks a lot for your immediate reply.
    is it easy to get student visa in US? because you have mentioned in this forum that one can work with student visa.

  50. By Ridhima Suri on Aug 3, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Kiruthiga,

    If you are considering a student visa, I assume you will get into M.S. which is a typical Masters program on another visa -F1 (Student Visa).

    For your reference, the following quote may be useful:

    Except for on-campus employment of 20 hours a week or less, F-1 students are generally not permitted to work in the US without prior authorization from Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). However, the USCIS may grant work authorization for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT). Students are permitted to work for a total of 40 months towards practical training (eg. internship), which can be distributed between Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT). An interim order was passed on April 8, 2008 allowing students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) to legally work under OPT for 29 months.[1] During the period of OPT, a F-1 student is not permitted to accrue more than 90 days of unemployment.[2] : Wikipedia

    Let me know if you have further questions.
    Good Luck!

  51. By kiruthiga on Aug 4, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Ridhima Suri,

    The problem is that I just completed my M.B.A in Systems (Part-time).So I don’t want to do one more post graduation and I think it is not possible for me to work in a software company with F1 (?).Whether it is possible to get contract job there? Is it legal if i work for a contract job with H4? Sorry for troubling you. And thanks for the link you have sent and most of jobs matches with my skill set.

  52. By Ridhima Suri on Aug 5, 2009 | Reply

    Thanks Ruchi & Naiya for sharing your opinion for Kiruthiga and others…I hope they would benefit!

    Hi Kiruthiga,

    I understand your concern, which is, indeed, rightfully justified. However, a) there is no scope of working on the H4 visa; b) you can do an internship while on the F1 visa in a software company, provided you do an M.S. Campus placements and direct recruitment are always going on, and c) I know a lot of friends who have got jobs through contractors. You will just have to come here and try on that. As the U.S. economy is a bit slow the contracting jobs are hard to come theses days. Perhaps the scenario will improve in the next three quarters. Good Luck!

    Kiruthiga, There is no trouble. I personally like to advice people who come to U.S. on the H4 visa. There are many things that we do not know before hand and I hope, by way of these blog postings and message boards, I am able to help someone!

    Let me know if you have any other concerns.

    Thanks,
    Ridhima

  53. By Ruchi on Aug 5, 2009 | Reply

    Hi,

    Ridhima : You rock and your awesome in helping so many people, man i adore you.

    Kiruthiga: I feel the only way you can work is find a consulting company who is willing to apply your H1 visa. and since the quota is not filled you might get lucky and get you H1 All the best for that.

    There is no other way you can work here. F1 or student visa is a very long route if you are not interested in studying further.

    There are thousands of consulting companies you can contact.

    If you need any more details, me or Ridhima would be ready to help you.

    Thanks
    Ruchita

  54. By Naiya on Aug 5, 2009 | Reply

    Kiruthiga,

    Getting a H1 visa through a consulting company has become difficult as USCIS has become really strict regarding H1 visa issued to people working with consulting company. Consultants get H1 visa extension only till the date their current contract project(job) end date. If your husband can come to US on L1 visa then you can work in USA without have to worry about visa issues

    Best of luck

  55. By kiruthiga on Aug 7, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Ridhima,Ruchi and Naiya ,

    Thanks a lot for your valuable information.
    one small request do you have any idea about consultacies in texas?

  56. By Ridhima on Aug 9, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Kiruthiga,
    Your best option is to browse on Sulekha.com and search for keywords like ‘software consultants in texas’, ‘consultants in texas’. Many consultants post their ads on Sulekha and Indian magazines as well.
    Good Luck!

    Naiya, Ruchi : Thank you for your comments. I really appreciate it!

  57. By andrea on Sep 16, 2009 | Reply

    hi ridhima, i came to usa 6 months back on H4 visa..first 2..3 months i enjoyed roaming around all the places.but now i am really getting bored of sitting at home all time.i did my BSC(Botany) and then MCA in india.can i do any phd program or any other fellowship program here? pl suggest…

  58. By Ridhima on Sep 16, 2009 | Reply

    Sure Andrea absolutely. If you want to pursue higher education, you must explore the courses and doctoral programs offered in different Universities around you. On the H4 visa you can enroll in colleges and universities for Bachelors/Masters/PhD etc. You can also take up online courses. There is no problem at all. If you need any advice for a specific school, just send me a message here and I will get back to you asap. Good Luck!

  59. By andrea on Sep 17, 2009 | Reply

    thanks a lot ridhima..i will now think for a good course and if i need any help i will definitely message you.

    this blog is really really helpful..thanks again..

  60. By Amit on Sep 24, 2009 | Reply

    Hi EveryBody,

    I got h1b visa at mumbai, now i want to apply for h4 visa for my wife.right now i am at india so when should i apply for H4 visa? after going to US or before going to US? Is there any problem If i am applying before going to US?

  61. By Ridhima Suri on Sep 24, 2009 | Reply

    Amit,

    Apply for the H4 visa now. You will need to schedule an interview date with the consulate. There is no problem in getting it done before coming to US.

    Thanks,
    Ridhima

  62. By amit on Sep 24, 2009 | Reply

    thanks a lot …ridhima.

  63. By Prerna Bhat on Oct 3, 2009 | Reply

    Hi,
    My husband is working in NY and I have applied for my H4 visa. The thing troubling me is that I am pregnant ritenow so will that be an hindrance in getting the visa done.

  64. By Ridhima on Oct 3, 2009 | Reply

    Prerna,

    I am not sure what stage of pregnancy you are in. It should not be a problem per se. However, for your own health and safety you may not want to travel during a certain period of time (third trimester).

    If you do go ahead with the H4 Visa Interview Process and your pregnancy comes up, be firm to tell the Visa Officer that you have no plans to settle/work in the U.S.

    Let me know if you have any other concerns.

    Thanks
    Ridhima

    p.s. If your child is born in India, you will have to apply for a separate H4 for him/her.

    IANAL

  65. By swati on Oct 26, 2009 | Reply

    hi ridhima,
    i wanna ask that ater coming to us by h4 visa, can i get student visa der and can i work and study parallely.

  66. By Ridhima on Oct 26, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Swasti,

    Yes. You can get a student visa (F1). You are allowed to do internship as part of the curriculum on the student visa.

    Good Luck!

  67. By Ruchita on Oct 28, 2009 | Reply

    Hi,

    I think if your pregnancy is in first three months then u can get the visa if they dont get to know abt it.. otherwise it is difficult if your stomach shows n they come to know abt ur pregnant.. My sister didnot get the visa to come to usa with the hubby since she was pregnant in her 5 month. In that case she waited till the kid was born, n then applied visa for both of them

    Ruchita

  68. By Ridhima on Oct 28, 2009 | Reply

    Yes Prerna. Ruchita is right. They will not give you the visa if you ‘appear’ pregnant. Also, like i said before, it is not even safe for you to travel in the second and third trimester. Good Luck folks!

    Thanks Ruchita!!

  69. By tanya on Nov 27, 2009 | Reply

    hi
    m getting married on 11thfeb 2009.my husband was studying in usa frm last 7 years now he got d job dere only n he got d papers for his working visa frm d company n at d time when he come for marriage he ll get his visa stamped.can i also apply for h4 visa at d same time when he apply or first we get his visa stamped?n how many days ll it take as he ll b here in india only for 20 days after mrrg.m really anxious if i ll b going wid him or not.ll b greatful if u reply soon

  70. By tanya on Nov 27, 2009 | Reply

    sorry it 11 feb 2010

  71. By Manu on Nov 27, 2009 | Reply

    Hi Ridhima,

    I will be travelling with my husband to US for a long term project that he has been assigned from his company. And obviously i will be travelling on H4 dependant visa, holding which i cannot earn any money is what i have learnt from your previous answers.
    To keep myself busy and not to get boared i am sure i can find a volunteer organization which will be lot of learning and fun.

    But my question to you is, is there any way that i can earn some money of any magnitude?? This will surely not be to support the family, it will just be to fulfill my basic needs, because it will be difficult for me to keep asking money for small basic needs.

    Regards,
    Manu.

  72. By Monalisa on Nov 28, 2009 | Reply

    I am on H4 visa.I have 3 year of experience in IT profession .how can i find a consulting company who is willing to apply for H1 visa.Thanks

  73. By Ridhima on Nov 29, 2009 | Reply

    Tanya,
    Congratulations! This is what you should do-
    1. Pay up the HDFC fee for the visa interview.
    2. Let your fiancee get his H1 visa stamped first. Then you should go for your visa interview.
    3. Take the VFS date for your H4 visa interview. The dates usually open a month in advance so you must keep an eye on interview dates. Remember that passport processing and getting the paperwork for H1 stamp will also take about 7-10 days. You will need the stamped passport and other documents at the time of your interview.
    4. You will need to time all of this with the marriage ceremony, getting proof of marriage and his visa interview. Yeah it sounds very stressful but that is how it is..:)
    5. Double check with the local US consulate where you plan to give the interview.

    Good Luck!

    Manu-There is no way you can legally work on the H4 visa. Other routes of conversion to another visa have been discussed on this board. If this is a big issue for you, you may want to reconsider moving to the US. The H4 scene is as painful as it gets for dependent spouses..sorry! :(

    Monalisa- Search on Sulekha.com for local consultants who will help you on this. Ask friends if you are new to the country. During the break, keep studying new technologies and programming platforms to update your skills. This will be helpful.

    Thanks..

  74. By Monalisa on Dec 2, 2009 | Reply

    thanks a lot ?ridhima

  75. By Puneet on Jan 3, 2010 | Reply

    Hi Ridhima, I just wanted to say Thanks!! I did have a lot of questions before coming to your blog but I now feel much better informed and comfortable on guiding my to-be wife on her H4 visa application. Thank you so much for providing this service to all of us.

  76. By Manu on Jan 18, 2010 | Reply

    Hi Ridhima, i had posted a couple of months back that i will be travelling to US with my husband on H4 dependant visa. You replied to me mentioning that on H4 i cannot work legally in US. One more piece of information i wanted… are there any activities that i can do there that can help me be occupied other than studying… some voulantary service which will include learning for me that can help me keep myself busy?

  77. By Ridhima Suri on Jan 23, 2010 | Reply

    Thank you Monalisa and Puneet for your kind remarks!

    Manu- Yes, you can volunteer for a number of cause. For voluntary work you may want to browse listings on http://www.craigslist.com. Explore the listings in the section ‘volunteers’. You may also want to enroll on Big Brothers Big Sisters. Here is the link
    http://www.bbbs.org/site/c.diJKKYPLJvH/b.1539751/k.BDB6/Home.htm
    If you do not find anything interesting in the links above, try to find volunteer opportunities in schools in the neighborhood. Good Luck!

    -Ridhima
    Let me know if you have any other questions.

  78. By Ridhima on Jan 24, 2010 | Reply

    Hello everyone,

    I’d like to reiterate that while preparing for the H4 visa interview you must have a simple goal: “The burden of proof is on YOU to show that
    1. you are not an intending immigrant (you do not want to stay in the U.S. permanently) and
    2. you do not have any intention of working in the U.S.

    The consular officer uses the H4 visa interview to determine your intentions and ensure that you meet the requirements of the H4/H1 visa. Good Luck!

    -Ridhima

  79. By Seema on Jan 27, 2010 | Reply

    HI ,

    I have come here on H4 visa with my husband.
    Iam a software tester have 1 and 8 months of experience from india.I love to work .AS i know i cant work on H4 visa.Can u suggest some online jobs

  80. By Caro on Jan 30, 2010 | Reply

    my husband and i apply for h1 (he did ) and I for H-4, atthe interview they told us we were approved and his visa came 2 days alter and mine is still havent arrived after 5 days, we apply in amsterdam he is dutch I am mexican at the moment of applying I was or I am pregnant, Do you yhink this has someting to do? what to do?

  81. By Ridhima on Jan 31, 2010 | Reply

    Hi Caro,

    Please follow up with the U.S. Embassy in Amsterdam. I do not think this is an issue as your visas were approved in the interview. You will simply have to wait. Good luck!

    -Ridhima

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