US Congresswoman Caroline Bordeaux and Maria Elvira Salazar introduced the H-4 Work Authorization Act in the House of Representatives to replace existing law and allow spouses of immigrants who hold H-1B visas to obtain H-4 visas. The same provides automatic right to work in the US.
WASHINGTON: Two female members of the US Congress on Thursday introduced a bill in the House of Representatives that aims to provide automatic right to work for H-4 visa holders. H-4 visa holders are dependent spouses and children coming to the United States with H-1B, H-2A, H-2B and H-3 visa holders. Under the current rule, only certain categories of H-4 visa holders can apply for an employment authorization document.
US Congresswoman Caroline Bordeaux and Maria Elvira Salazar introduced the H-4 Work Authorization Act in the House of Representatives to replace existing law and allow spouses of immigrants who hold H-1B visas to obtain H-4 visas. It gives automatic right to work in America. This act will eliminate the need for H-4 visa holders to apply under Employment Authorization Document Form I-765.
This bill removes unnecessary barriers to working in America
Women lawmakers who introduced the bill said that many employers in America are facing labor shortage. The new bill will fill the labor shortage, help provide employment and make life easier for migrant families.Member of parliament”Right now, the wives of highly skilled immigrants face years of bureaucratic red tape to obtain permission to work in the United States,” Caroline Bordeaux said in a statement. This bill removes these unnecessary barriers to ensure that immigrant families can contribute to America’s progress together and prosper themselves.
H-4 visa holders have to apply separately for work permit
Carolyn Bordeaux said, ‘If we want to remain competitive and attract the greatest minds and talents from around the world to the United States, we must ensure that family members of high-value immigrants are more than everyone else. Like be able to build a life and career in the US. Currently, H-4 visa holders have to apply for a work permit in the United States separately and wait for approval.
Up to 1 year waiting time for employment authorization documents in the US
Looking at the backlog in the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), applications for EAD (Employment Authorization Document) take up to 6 to 8 months, with some applications taking more than a year to be approved. The Work Authorization Act will also reduce waiting times at USCIS, as H-4 visa holders will not need to apply for an EAD separately.
