Spouses and unmarried minor children (under 21 years of age) of an H-1B principal are eligible for H-4 status.
Generally, individuals holding H-4 status may remain in the U.S. for the same period as the H-1B principal, provided the proper extensions requests are filed with USCIS if the H-1B principal extends H-1B status.
Individuals in H-4 status may study full or part time. Some individuals in H-4 status may apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) based on a pending green card application.