Can one work while on H-4?

[happyneige]

I just have a quick question. Can an alien physician work under H-4 while his/her spous is under J-1 waiver/H-1b? Technically I don't think it is legal but I have seen it done on several occasions in my area. Just wanted to ask the experts' opinions on this. Thanks.

 

[hadron]

No.

 

[hospitalistMD]

Well if the spouse that is doing the J1 waiver on H1B does a NIW then they can file for EAD for the spouse physician to work right? That is my understanding.

 

[hadron]

But then they are in 'adjustee' status with EAD, not in H4.

H4 is a non-working visa. If you work, you violate your status turning yourself into an 'illegal immigrant' at risk for:
- deportation
- being blocked for many years from receiving a greencard.

Don't even think about it.