H4/EAD Processing Delays Persist Into 2026 After Premium Filing

A Reddit user reports that an H4 EAD application filed in June 2025 under premium processing remains pending as of March 5, 2026 — over eight months after filing. The applicant, who exhausted their 6-year H1-B cap and transitioned to H4 status, is now waiting on USCIS to complete security and background checks, as confirmed through a Congressional inquiry via their Senator's office. The case was transferred between USCIS offices twice — first in July 2025 and again in March 2026 — adding to processing uncertainty. Despite premium processing being selected for the H1 transfer (which was approved within two weeks), the associated H4 and H4 EAD petitions did not benefit from expedited adjudication. The applicant is weighing whether to file a new H4/EAD under their husband's upcoming H1 extension, due before June 2026. Their attorney has cautioned that having two concurrent pending H4 EAD applications could create confusion at USCIS, potentially complicating both cases. This situation is relevant to EB-3 applicants and their dependents who rely on H4 EAD for work authorization while waiting for immigrant visa availability. Prolonged EAD delays can create significant employment gaps, particularly when H1-B status is no longer available.