How long is an H4 EAD usually valid for?

H-1B
1

Hi everyone,

I’m trying to get some clarity on the H4 EAD (Employment Authorization Document). Once it’s approved, how long is it typically valid for in the U.S.?

I know it’s tied to the H-1B principal’s status, but does it always match the exact expiration date of the H4 visa or I-94? Or is there a standard validity period?

Would really appreciate any insights from folks who’ve gone through the process recently. Thanks in advance!

2

Hey! Great question — I went through this recently so hopefully I can help.

You’re absolutely right that the H4 EAD is tied to the H-1B principal’s status. But to be more specific:

:backhand_index_pointing_right: The EAD validity period usually matches the shortest of the following :

• The H4 I-94 expiration date

• The H-1B’s I-797 approval end date

• The validity of your current H4 status (which is usually tied to your I-94 anyway)

There’s no “standard” EAD validity period — it completely depends on your current immigration documents. For example, if your spouse’s H1B is valid until Dec 2026 but your H4 I-94 ends in Aug 2025, your EAD will most likely only be valid until Aug 2025.

3

If an H1B holder submits an I-140, the H4 spouse can apply for an EAD card. As long as the H1B holder has submitted the I-140, they can continue to extend their H1B status, and the H4 spouse can continue to work using the EAD card.

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4

Yes, that’s why the H4 is such a practical status, and doesn’t even limit the type of work.

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5

Basically, the H4 EAD is valid as long as your H4 status is valid — it’s directly tied to your H4 I-94, which is usually based on your spouse’s H-1B approval.
So if your H4 is valid until, say, June 2026, your EAD should expire around the same time. There’s no fixed “one year” or “two year” rule — it just matches whatever your current H4 status is.

One thing to watch out for: if your spouse’s H-1B extension is coming up soon, you’ll need to renew both the H4 and the EAD together to avoid a gap. (The timing can get a little stressful :sweat_smile:.)

6

Ahh got it, that makes so much more sense now — thank you for breaking it down so clearly! I didn’t realize the EAD end date is tied directly to the H4 I-94. Definitely going to let my friend keep an eye on the H-1B extension timing then… sounds like something I’ll want to plan for early :sweat_smile: Appreciate the heads-up!

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