Working in gap between F1/OPT EAD and I-485 EAD

[ahvo78]

Hi. I am currently on an F1/OPT based EAD that expires mid-June 2008.

I filed a I-485 (Adjust status) and I-765 (EAD) in April 2008. I was fingerprinted in early May for the I-765 i.e. my application is pending.

Can any one please tell me if I can legally work in the gap between when my OPT based EAD expires and when it is formally granted? And if so, how do I go about this?

I have called the USCIS helpline and was told by them that I could, but no authorizing law, regulation or business practice was quoted.

Many thanks!

[txh1b]

No valid EAD in your hand = No authorization to Work. Period. No exceptions. USCIS callcenter representatives are not qualified to give you the right answers.

In reality, the validity of the F1 EAD is also questionable after you applied for I485. This is still a gray area.