H-4 dependant visa of Kids of H-1B Workers Face US Visa Expiry at 21: What Next? (April 2025 Update)

As of April 2025, thousands of families in the U.S. are grappling with a critical immigration challenge: their children on H-4 dependent visas are aging out upon turning 21, losing their legal status and facing potential deportation. These young adults, often referred as “Documented Dreamers,” have grown up in the U.S. legally but now confront an uncertain future.

This situation is particularly challenging for Indian nationals due to the extensive backlog in employment based green card processing. Many families have been waiting for years, and their children risk losing their place in the green card queue upon aging out.

At Admire Immigration we can help such people to move to Canada in the past but it is not automatic. They must qualify under Canada’s regular immigration program. There is no special “direct transfer” from U.S. H-4/F-1/H-1B status to Canadian PR. Few steps they can consider are listed below:

They can apply for Student Visa, after studying they can apply for Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) and with 1 Year of Canadian work experience they can apply for Express Entry – Canadian Experience Class.

The Express Entry Skilled Worker Program is good for those who have College/university degree, work experience (part/full time) and good English test score. It is to be noted that CRS cutoff score is often high. Points depends on age, language skills a work experience.

Then comes Provincial Nominee Program for which they need a job offer or meet specific requirements.

Important Tip: Canada values North American Education and Work Experience very highly. So if you studied in the U.S. or worked part-time during studies can get extra points when applying for PR. We at Admire Immigration is always there to plan your transition smoothly and guide till you get your Permanent Residency. Book up an appointment in person or Zoom to discuss your case with the team of immigration professionals. To book an appointment call or message at: info@admireimmigration.com

We have recently helped one of our clients who took a smart step and planned moving to Canada before this announcement was made. Today she is in Canada.