A group of H-4 visa holders—spouses of H-1B visa holders in the United States—have filed a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), challenging the recent decision to end the extension of H-4 Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). The move has sparked significant concern among immigrant communities, as it directly affects the ability of thousands of spouses to work legally in the U.S..
The plaintiffs argue that the DHS policy change jeopardizes the livelihoods and career prospects of H-4 visa holders, many of whom have built professional careers in the united states while supporting their H-1B spouses. By ending the automatic EAD extension, the new regulation could result in employment gaps, loss of income, and potential career disruptions.
Legal experts say the lawsuit may focus on procedural fairness and administrative overreach, questioning whether DHS followed proper guidelines before implementing the policy. Advocates for H-4 visa holders also highlight that these spouses contribute significantly to the U.S. economy and that restricting their work authorization could have negative economic and social impacts.
The DHS has not yet publicly responded to the lawsuit, but the case is expected to attract widespread attention, as it raises critical questions about immigration policy, family stability, and employment rights for visa-dependent spouses.
With the lawsuit now underway, stakeholders will closely watch the court proceedings, which could potentially reinstate or modify the EAD extension policy, impacting thousands of families across the country.
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