1.Confirm your eligibility: Before applying for an H4 Employment Authorization Document (EAD), make sure you are eligible. To qualify, you must be the spouse of an H-1B visa holder who is on a path to obtaining a green card.

2.Obtain required forms: Download and fill out Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.

3.Gather supporting documents: Collect required documents to accompany your application, such as a copy of your H4 visa stamp, passport information page, I-94 arrival/departure record, and marriage certificate.

4.Obtain photographs: Provide two passport-size photographs in color, taken within the last 30 days.

5.Compile your spouse’s documentation: Include your spouse’s H-1B visa stamp (or USCIS approval notice if they have changed their status in the U.S.), Form I-797 Approval Notice for their most recent H-1B petition, and Form I-140 Approval Notice if available.

6.Check fees: USCIS requires a payment for processing Form I-765. Verify the current fee on their website and obtain an acceptable form of payment, such as a check or money order payable to the “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”

7.Review your application: Thoroughly review all forms and documents before submitting to ensure accuracy and completeness.

8.Create a cover letter: Draft a cover letter outlining the summary of your application package and list all enclosed documents.

9.Make copies: Keep photocopies of all submitted documents, including your completed Form I-765, for reference purposes.

10.Package your application: Neatly arrange all documents in order of importance and include the cover letter on top before placing them in a secure envelope for mailing.

11.Mail the application: Find the appropriate USCIS mailing address on the Form I-765 Instructions document and send your package via a traceable method, such as USPS Priority Mail or a courier service.

12.Monitor your application: After mailing, track the delivery status. USCIS will issue a receipt notice with a case number within 7 to 10 days after receiving your application. Keep note of your case number for future reference.

13.Biometrics appointment (if applicable): USCIS may require you to attend a biometrics appointment before processing your H4 EAD application. If needed, you will receive an appointment notice indicating the date, time, and location.

14.Monitor approval status: Regularly verify the status of your application using your case number on USCIS’s website or by signing up for electronic notifications.

15.Receive H4 EAD card: Upon approval, USCIS will mail your H4 EAD card to the address provided in your Form I-765. The validity period typically aligns with the expiration date of your spouse’s H-1B visa, but it is important to confirm on receiving the card.

Remember, having an H4 EAD allows you to work in the United States and is an important step toward building a career while living in the country. Following these steps will help ensure a successful application process.