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Dependent visas in the United States are nonimmigrant classifications that allow spouses and dependent children to accompany a primary visa holder. In practice, common categories for dependents are H-4 for spouses and children of H-1B workers and L-2 for spouses and children of L-1 intracompany transferees. Bloomfield Township residents pursue these visas under federal law, not township or state statutes.
In Bloomfield Township, as in all of Michigan and the United States, immigration matters are governed by federal regulations. Local authorities do not grant or deny dependent visas, but they may be involved in related issues such as school enrollment, healthcare access, or employment authorization through work authorization rules. A local immigration attorney can help coordinate forms, deadlines, and communications with federal agencies.
Key actions for dependents often include preparing for status extensions or changes, applying for employment authorization where eligible, and ensuring ongoing eligibility if the primary visa holder changes jobs or leaves employment. For official guidance, refer to U.S. government resources on dependent visas such as H-4 and L-2 categories.
Primary resources: H-4 Nonimmigrant, L-2 Nonimmigrant, and I-539 for status extensions. For visa issuance and consular processing, see Department of State visa information.
“Dependent visas allow spouses and children to stay in the United States while the primary visa holder works or studies.”
Recent regulatory updates have shaped how dependents may work and live in the United States. Familiarize yourself with the H-4 employment authorization rule and related I-765 processes to understand whether work is possible for a dependent in your situation.
Citations: - U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (H-4 Nonimmigrant): uscis.gov - U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (L-2 Nonimmigrant): uscis.gov - I-539 form overview: uscis.gov - Department of State visa information: travel.state.gov - Federal Register: Employment Authorization for H-4 Dependent Spouses: federalregister.gov
A Bloomfield Township immigration attorney can prevent common mistakes that slow or derail your case. Below are concrete situations where legal guidance is especially valuable.
In addition to filing forms correctly, a qualified lawyer can help you translate immigration jargon into actionable steps, represent you in communications with USCIS or consulates, and keep you informed about changes in policy that affect dependents in Bloomfield Township.
Immigration law is federal, not municipal. Bloomfield Township does not issue dependent visas or determine eligibility at the local level. However, residents must comply with local processes for school enrollment, healthcare, and other services while their immigration status is resolved.
The core legal framework for dependent visas includes federal statutes and regulatory provisions. The primary statute is the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). See 8 U.S.C. § 1101 et seq for definitions and nonimmigrant categories.
Key regulatory provisions include the nonimmigrant classifications in 8 C.F.R. Part 214, with specific sections for dependent categories. For H-4 dependents, see 8 C.F.R. § 214.2(h). For L-2 dependents, see 8 C.F.R. § 214.2(l).
For status extensions and employment authorization, Form I-539 and Form I-765 are the relevant processes. The I-539 is used to extend or change nonimmigrant status, and the I-765 administers employment authorization for eligible dependents.
Recent changes include the federal rule on employment authorization for H-4 dependents. The final rule, published in 2015, allowed certain H-4 spouses to apply for work authorization, subject to eligibility criteria.
Selected references you can consult for official, jurisdiction-specific details: - INA structure and definitions: uscode.house.gov - Title 8 (INA) - 8 CFR Part 214 (nonimmigrant classifications): ecfr.gov - H-4 EAD regulation: federalregister.gov - I-539 and I-765 forms and guidance: uscis.gov and uscis.gov - Department of State visa information: travel.state.gov
Note: This section reflects federal law and official regulatory updates that impact residents of Bloomfield Township, Michigan. For local implications, consult a licensed attorney in Oakland County or the Detroit metro area.
A dependent typically includes a spouse and unmarried children under 21. Dependents may seek H-4 or L-2 status when accompanying the primary visa holder. Eligibility depends on the primary visa category and documented family relationships. An attorney can confirm your exact eligibility based on your situation.
Submit the appropriate forms to USCIS or at a U.S. consulate, depending on whether you are inside or outside the United States. Key forms include I-539 for status extension and I-765 for work authorization when eligible. Prepare supporting documents such as marriage or birth certificates and proof of the primary’s status.
H-4 depends on an H-1B status, often with potential work eligibility if the EAD rule applies. L-2 depends on an L-1 status and typically includes eligibility for work authorization through I-765. The two categories differ in eligibility, visa class, and potential work rights.
While you can file without counsel, a lawyer helps prevent delays caused by incomplete filings or missing documents. An attorney can tailor your strategy to your family’s timing, especially if the primary visa holder is changing jobs or if an extension is likely to be contested.
Lawyer fees vary by complexity and region. Typical consultations may range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand for a full matter. Ask for a written fee agreement and an itemized case plan before hiring.
Processing times vary with USCIS workloads and consular scheduling. Extensions and EADs can take several weeks to months, while initial approvals may take longer if RFEs occur. A local attorney can provide a more precise timeline based on your category and case history.
No. You can hire an attorney in Michigan or remote counsel in other jurisdictions. However, in-person meetings can be helpful for document review and witness testimonies if needed. Choose a lawyer familiar with Oakland County immigration practices.
Biometrics collection is commonly required for I-539 and I-765 to verify identity and conduct background checks. The timing and location of biometrics depend on USCIS scheduling and your case specifics.
Work eligibility depends on the dependent category. H-4 dependents may be eligible for employment under the H-4 EAD rule; L-2 dependents may apply for work authorization via I-765. Always verify current rules before making employment plans.
Extensions usually take several weeks to a few months, depending on USCIS backlogs and whether additional documentation is requested. Plan ahead to preserve status and avoid gaps in residency.
Status for the dependent often depends on the terms of the primary classification. In many cases, the dependent’s status can be jeopardized, and an attorney can explore alternatives such as change of status or consular processing. Do not delay in seeking legal guidance.
Inside the United States you may file I-539 to extend or change status. Outside the U.S. you pursue consular processing through a U.S. embassy or consulate. The choice affects timing, required documents, and interview steps.
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