Could the Trump administration be preparing a major setback for spouses of H-1B visa holders in the United States? The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is considering a proposal to eliminate work permits for certain H-4 visa holders.
Under a policy introduced during the Obama administration, eligible H-4 dependent spouses can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and legally work in the United States. If the latest proposal is implemented, some H-4 spouses could lose this opportunity.
However, the proposal is still in the early stages of the federal rulemaking process. DHS has not yet issued a formal proposed rule. It is also unclear whether current work permit holders would be affected or how many people could ultimately lose their work authorization.
Before any changes can take effect, DHS would have to publish the proposed rule, invite public comments, review the feedback and then decide whether to issue a final regulation.
The proposed change could also face legal challenges before it becomes effective.
