business π H-1B Spouses Face Potential Work Permit Rollback
DHS has revived a regulatory proposal to remove certain H-4 dependent spouses of H-1B workers from employment authorization eligibility. This action would effectively roll back a 2015 rule that allowed qualifying H-4 spouses to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). The proposal is currently at an early stage and is listed on the federal regulatory agenda for 2026. Currently, H-4 spouses with valid EADs are not immediately affected by this plan. This policy fight would severely restrict the ability of these spouses to work while their partners pursue permanent residency. π