[jdcryans]

I don't think it's ridiculous, and the current 97k H4s that will now be able to work are probably pretty happy about it [1].

Regarding the L2s being able to get their EADs but not the H4s, keep in mind that the latter are not the only ones in this situation, it's the same thing with TN/TD. And then you have the E-3 spouses (Australia) who _can_ get their EADs[2] :)

I think that the problem is that each visa/work status was created separately, so it's more than just a case of "since it works for this one, why doesn't it work for this other one". I agree with you that this current situation is ridiculous but I'm happy that they start addressing those issues, even if piece by piece.

1. http://recode.net/2014/05/06/congrats-h-1b-spouses-you-can-g... 2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/E-3_visa

[datacog]

I'm happy too that they have atleast started addressing this. But atleast no immediate benefit for someone who are just into their H1.

[jdcryans]

Ah I see where you were coming from, so you're saying that it's ridiculous since most spouses probably gave up/found something else to do, and those who would really benefit from a relaxed rule are those who just got their H1.

The way I see it, in the best case scenario a spouse can now get an EAD in 2 years (1 year before starting the GC process, 1 year to get the PERM and the I-140). Still far from being able to work right away, but progress nevertheless.

[datacog]

Yes. Thanks. Thats what I meant. To add to it: "Just got their H1.. and have a spouse on H4".

An efficient marriage strategy considering this proposal would be to get married after you are ~4-5 years into your H1B, and marry somewith with a STEM background. Now those would be very stringent marriage norms :)