question: OPT and 485

[Grace Chao]

How long does it take to get OPT approved? We applied on 5/8/2002, but still waiting.

When we filed 485, we didn\'t apply EAD card. Right now we are trying to get EAD card based on OPT so that we can still maintain F1 status. It seems only need one month to get EAD approved based on 485. But don\'t know why it takss so long for OPT.

Does anyone have the same situation?
Thanks.

 

[MTom]

Both take the same time

Both OPT and EAD through 485 take the same amount of time. In both cases you can get an interim EAD (from your local INS office) 3 months after you submit your application.

My spouse applied for his EAD (485) end of April and we\'re still waiting. We had applied for his OPT last year and it took 5 months to come through. Finally, we went to the local INS office and got an interim EAD after 3 months (from submission date)

 

[jaxen]

grace7

Your 485 application might have superceded your F1. Which means that you cannot get OPT, you have to apply EAD to start working. Please check with your lawyer.