Question about H4

I am a bit confused about the H4 visa. I am a Canadian and just had an AoS approved; I started work as a TN, and now I have H1B status. I was unmarried at the time of application, so I did not apply for any dependents. However, I will probably be getting married this winter in Ontario, and I would like my wife-to-be (also Canadian) to subsequently get an H4 visa. Can she do this simply by coming with me to the border and applying on the spot, or do we have to go through a consulate? I am also concerned because Ontario seems to take months to issue marriage certificates. Can we apply just with the license at the border, or will we have to wait for a notarized certificate?

Yes, she could obtain H-4 Status and her I-94 right at the port of entry. She would not become eligible for H-4 Status until you are legally married and have the marriage certificate in hand.

The paper that is handed to you by the person officiating over the marriage will be sufficient for getting the H4 status at the border. The actual registrar's copy of the certificate is not typically required for newlyweds.


And just so you use the correct termm, you recently got a COS (change of status) to H1. AOS is strictly for green card.

Thanks for this! Just to clarify, is there any other documentation beyond passports, my H1B, and the wedding license needed?

No.

OK, I see completely contradictory responses given above by Agnelson and MC. I am in the same situation as DEATON333. So does anyone know which it is - can we simply use the marriage license given to us by the officiant to get the certificate, or do we have to wait for the province of Ontario to issue the certified marriage certificate? I appreciate the help.

The officers will accept marriage license (the one given to you after the ceremony) if it is recent. If you've been married for 10 years, they expect the official certificate.
You do not have to wait months to get cert to move.

Go already!