H-4 visa holders - protection under VAWA to get work permit
Under the law, there are VAWA protections for H-4 visa holders and other certain dependents to apply for work authorization based on domestic abuse. Although it does not give someone legal resident status, it could give someone an EAD (employment authorization document) that allows them to legally work. You can see more information about this on the USCIS.gov website here: https://www.uscis.gov/i-765v However, as with any immigration situation, we strongly suggest that you talk to a lawyer for help and to see if you would qualify before applying.