Rep. Chu Lauds DHS’ Proposed Rule Extending Employment Authorization to H1-B Spouses

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Department of Homeland Security proposed a new rule that would allow spouses of high-skilled workers with H1-B visas to seek employment in the United States as long as the H1-B worker is in the process of becoming a permanent resident. If implemented, this rule would significantly increase the ability of high-skilled immigrant workers to keep their families united as they start new lives in the US. Congresswoman Judy Chu (D-CA), a leading advocate for protecting the family unit in our immigration system, released the following statement:

“This proposed rule is more than good policy – it’s common sense,” said Rep. Chu. “If we want to attract the brightest minds from around the world to come and work here, we have to make sure they can bring their loved ones with them.

The announcement comes less than a week after Chu, who Chairs the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), met with Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson to propose ways for DHS to change their policies to help keep families together.

“Denying spouses the right to work is an ill-conceived policy that has gone on for too long,” Chu continued. “I commend DHS for recognizing the need to protect families, and I urge them to build on this first step.

Today’s proposal will greatly benefit immigrant women. Currently, only a quarter of all employment visas are given to women as principal holders. Two-thirds of immigrant women in the employment visa category enter as dependents on their spouse’s visa, with no ability to work themselves.

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