IUPUI

Dependents

If the applicant is already in the U.S. and accompanied by dependents who need to attain or extend H-4 dependent status, the following documents must also be provided :

1. I-539 and Supplement, if necessary. Please note this form should be completed and signed by the spouse (seeking H-4 status) or the oldest dependent. If the oldest dependent is under age 14, it can be signed by the employee. However, the answers should be given from the perspective of the dependent. The employee should sign both signature sections.
   
   
2. Check payable to DHS in the amount of $300.  Only one fee is required regardless of the number of dependents.  This fee may be paid by the department or employee.
   
   
3. Copy of I-94s (front and back) of all dependents.
   
   
4. Copy of passport showing biographical information and expiration date.
   
   
5. Copy of all forms verifying current visa status: I-20 if in F status; DS-2019’s if in J status;
   
   
6. Copy of any USCIS Approval Notices and/or employment authorizations for dependents.
   
   
7. Copy of documentation verifying family relationship: visa page showing principal's name, marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc. (one document is sufficient).
   
   
8. Copy of passport, I-94 and other documents supporting visa status of the principal applicant (H-1B).
   
   

Note regardless of the H-1B’s approval period, H-4 status will not be granted to dependent children beyond the dependent’s 21st birthday. If a dependent is a full-time university student, the dependent may be able to change to F-1 status.

If the dependents are not in the U.S., no paperwork is required for the dependents. Please contact OIA for additional information on how the dependents can acquire H-4 status.