Sm1smom
Super Moderator
Hi. This may sound very naive, but I really don't know the answer.
It is optional to file I-765 alongside the adjustment of status application. I am currently on F-1 and am adjusting status since I was selected in DV lottery 2015. So, do I need to file I-765? I always thought that once you get a green card, you are eligible to work for any employer in any field within the US. Is this assumption wrong?
Thanks
Your question is not naive and your assumption isn't wrong. Once the GC petition is approved, one is eligible to work for anyone employer any where. The reason people include the I-765 is to enable them work (if they currently do not have a work permit or if that permit is about to expire) while their AOS application is pending. Once the AOS petition is approved, the DV based EAD becomes useless and irrelevant.
A person on F1 visa may apply for an AOS based EAD card, and upon issue/approval can use the EAD card to work for any employer anywhere - it has no restrictions like a F1 visa based EAD/OPT card. However, this might not be a wise step for someone on F1 visa to take because once you use the EAD card to take up employment, you're automatically no longer in F1 status, and if for whatever reason the AOS petition is denied, or your CN does not become current before the end of the FY, or your petition is not approved by the end of the FY, then you will no longer be able to revert back to your F1 status