wouldliketoknow said:
What I meant to ask was basically this: when I get my EAD, can I start using it right away? Employer is being a pain in the neck and it seems that EAD gives more freedom. Is it possible to do this while I-140 is still pending? I understand, that by not extending my H1-B and starign to use EAD I lose my H1-B status. People seem to be greedy and my employer is being an excellent examlpe.
Using EAD can be in different situations.
1) Using EAD working for sponsoring employer,
2) using EAD and working part time while continue working for sponsoring employer
3) using EAD and working for new employer full time etc...
from what I understand case 1 can be done anytime, case 2-> I dont
have clear answer,case 3-> can be done but u can be in trouble
if sponsoring employer revokes ur approved 140[485< 180 days]. I advise against case 3 if 140 is pending[no matter what stage 485 is].
By NOT extending H1-B and using EAD u'll lose my H1-B status
and this can be HUGE problem if your 485 is denied. Its safe to be
on H1B unless until 485 > 180 days and 140 approved in which case u
can switch jobs using AC-21.
Hope above helps.