H4 visa holders: What can you legally do in the United States without an EAD?

You’ve finally received your H4 dependent visa and you’re in the United States! The biggest disappointment that most people on H4 visas express to me is their inability to work legally in the United States. Most of you have at least a bachelor’s degree, if not more, and are eager to put that to use by getting a job and contributing financially to your family. However, under the current immigration laws in the United States, someone who is here on an H4 dependent visa cannot legally work or earn any income without first obtaining their Employment Authorization Document (“EAD”).

While you’re waiting for an EAD, there are various things that you can do today to grow your skills and start building your life here in the United States.

First, you can enroll as a student in any educational institution, either part-time or full-time. Be sure to speak with the admissions office about your visa status and ask about the tuition. Since you already live here in the U.S., you might qualify for in-state fees, which are much cheaper, than out-of-state or foreign admission fees. One thing to keep in mind is that unlike other students who come to the U.S. on an F1 visa, you will not be able to take on a paid internship during your studies or work right after you finish your studies (unless you get your EAD by then, of course).

Now you might be thinking, why on earth would you pay to enroll in courses and study if you cannot even get a job. Think of it as investing into yourself and into your future. While you’re waiting for your EAD to be approved, you can keep yourself educated on the latest developments in your area of specialization. Perhaps you were working in your home country, but you had to leave that job and now you have a gap in your employment. Enrolling in some courses could be a good addition to your resume.

Second, you can apply for a driver’s license and start driving! You will need your unexpired, foreign passport, or your birth certificate, evidence of your residency in your current state (ex. Utility bills, lease, banks statements with your name on it), and proof of your legal status.

Third, you can open your own bank account and apply for a debit or credit card and start building up your credit. Again, you might be wondering why you would need to open up a bank account when you have no income right now, but in the U.S., building up your credit is wise if you want to stay here long term and buy a house down the road. Some major banks that allow you to open an account with them without an SSN are Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, Marcus by Goldman Sachs.

Fourth, you can buy and own property. Now, I want you to be careful with this. Buying property for your own personal use is allowed while on an H4 visa, however, buying investment property and renting it out to make passive income is not allowed until you have your EAD. Be careful that you are not buying and flipping houses or making income from your investment into real estate before getting your EAD.

Fifth, you can volunteer your time at any organization of your choice. Volunteering can have so many benefits beyond simply making you feel good about yourself. It’s a great way to meet new people and immerse yourself in American society. It can be lonely being at home while your spouse is at work and your children are in school. It can be hard to meet people and make new friends in this new country. Volunteering in an area where you have studied or worked will also help you use your knowledge and skills while you are waiting for your EAD. Once you get your EAD, you can add your volunteer experiences to your resume and potentially use that to explain your gap in employment.

Moving to a new country is hard enough, but living in uncertainty as you wait for your work authorization can feel frustrating and lonely. I hope this article helps empower you to continue doing things you love and start building your new dream life here in the United States.

June 1, 2024

Written by: Saimithra Reddy