New US Immigration Policy Allows Spouses and Kids of H-1B Visa Holders to Work

In a significant development, a bipartisan agreement endorsed by the White House has been unveiled, bringing much-needed relief to H-1B visa holders and their families.

This agreement aims to bring much-needed relief to H-1B visa holders and their families, addressing various immigration obstacles they face and presenting long-awaited solutions. One notable aspect of this groundbreaking agreement is the implementation of automatic work authorization for approximately 100,000 H-4 visa holders. These individuals, who are spouses and children of certain categories of H-1B visa holders, have been granted the opportunity to contribute to the workforce. This provision brings comfort to numerous families who have been struggling with visa limitations and it further ensures stability for their children.

Furthermore, the agreement recognizes the challenges faced by around 250,000 aged-out children of H-1B visa holders. It offers them protection and a clear path forward, aiming to alleviate the uncertainty experienced by these individuals and their families. This provision safeguards their residency status in the United States. Additionally, this initiative addresses the prolonged waiting times for Green Cards, which has particularly affected Kenyan professionals and their families. The current per-country caps on Green Card issuance have made the path to permanent residency difficult. However, this agreement strives to simplify the process and provide relief to those caught in the backlog.

The immigration system is being reformed to emphasize fairness, security, and adherence to national principles. This agreement represents a collective effort to address long-standing immigration issues and promote inclusivity and efficiency.
Additionally, the agreement expands opportunities for employment-based immigration by increasing the number of annual green cards by 18,000 over the next five years. This initiative not only benefits skilled workers but also helps U.S. businesses access talent from diverse backgrounds.

In recognition of humanitarian concerns, the agreement offers expedited work authorization to asylum seekers and prioritizes reuniting families. By reducing waiting periods and providing legal pathways, it aims to foster stability and support for those seeking refuge in the United States. The White House is urging Congress to promptly approve the bill, emphasizing its significance in addressing pressing immigration issues and geopolitical considerations. The proposed measures aim to uphold principles of fairness, security, and opportunity while advancing U.S. interests globally.