Family

Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age are eligible for H-4 status. Although the spouse and children of H-1B employees usually enter as H-4s, they are not required to do so. They may enter in other visa classifications for which they qualify, such as F-1, J-1, B-2 or H-1B. Domestic partners are ineligible for H-4 status but may apply for B-2 visas.

Employment is not permitted for family members who hold H-4 status. 

There is no restriction on study for persons in H-4 status.

Many childcare services are available on-campus and in the community.

To enroll your children in school, contact one of the Seattle Public Schools Enrollment Service Centers. Be prepared to produce your child's immunization records, verification of date of birth, and prior academic records.

After you arrive in the U.S., choose a medical clinic and physician according to your health insurance provisions. The University of Washington Hall Health Center, conveniently located on the UW campus, is a “preferred provider” for many health insurance plans. The Hall Health Center provides service to UW students, faculty, staff and the surrounding community. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Twenty-four hour care is available at several nearby hospitals, including the University of Washington Medical Center. For life-threatening emergencies, dial 911 on any telephone (9911 from a UW campus telephone).

The Foundation for International Understanding Through Students (FIUTS), a community organization located on the University of Washington campus, provides activities designed to enhance interactions between UW internationals and Americans. FIUTS offers programs of special interest to spouses of scholars from abroad, including conversation groups, cooking classes, and trips and tours.