Can apply for both EAD and H1B visa while i am on L2 visa?

[nareshvavilala]

Hi,

I have an L2 dependent visa and am planning to apply for EAD to be able to work in US. But since it takes a longer time for EAD approval, I want to process H1B visa if I get a sponsor. I want to know if I can apply for both EAD and H1 B visa at the same time and what happens to EAD processing if my H1 B application gets approved soon.

Best Regards,

Naresh

[kabkaba]

You can certainly apply for EAD and in the meanwhile if you find a job, the employer can file H1 petition.
If H1 petition is approved with change of status, your L2 status will end and EAD will be invalid. You will then have to work to maintain H1 status and you can work for the H1 sponsor only.
If you remain on L2 status (no H1 filed or filed without change of status), you can use the EAD to work for any employer or not work at all (no need to work to maintain L2 status). But you cannot work until you receive the EAD.