Office of International Services

H-4 Dependents

H4 dependents

Only legal spouses (as recognized by U.S. Immigration law) and children under the age of 21 are eligible for H-4 Dependent status.

H-4 Dependents may NOT:

  • Work

  • Apply for employment authorization unless their H1B spouse has begun the Permanent Residency process. More explanation is available here.

  • Receive stipend or assistantship funds from LSUHSC-New Orleans

  • "Volunteer" in positions normally occupied by paid workers

H-4 Dependents may:

  • Attend school (K-12)

  • Study full or part time in pursuit of a degree (College/University)

  • Volunteer with community organizations and non-profits in traditional volunteer positions

H-4 Dependent status is contingent upon the H-1B principal properly maintaining their H-1B status. If the H-1B falls out of status, all H-4 dependents associated with the principal will also be considered out of status.

For information about immigration options for unmarried partners & other family members who do not qualify as a spouse or child for H-4 purposes, click here.

Children Aging Out means the dependent child (J-2, F-2, H-4, etc.) is turning 21 years old while they are still in the United States/ is a dependent child within six months of their 21st birthday.

If so, the dependent must either travel & re-enter in OR apply for a change of status to a new category before their 21st birthday. It is recommended that the application for change of status be submitted (or entry documents obtained) at least 90 days before the dependent's 21st birthday.

Additional information about requesting a change of status can be found here.  Form I-539 can be found here.

Please contact the Office of International Services for assistance if a change of a status will also require sponsorship by LSU HSC-NO (typically J-1, F-1 or H1B).

Pursuant to LSU System Policy, PM-31, H-1B/H-4 status holders may be eligible to establish Louisiana residency in order to receive in-state tuition at LSUHSC-New Orleans.

Disclaimer: The content on these pages is designed for use by LSUHSC-New Orleans sponsored students, exchange visitors and employees. It is not intended to constitute legal advice and is not a substitute for legal counsel.