I am doing various freelance jobs based on an H-4 EAD, which is valid through 2023. My H1B registration was selected in the lottery, and that H1B change-of-status request is pending. If the case is approved, do I have to stop using the H-4 EAD immediately?

Answer

For an H1B case that was selected in this year’s lottery, the petition should have requested a start date of October 1, 2022 or later. If the petition and change-of-status request are approved prior to the requested start date, you should be able to continue using the H-4 EAD until the H1B start date. If the change of status is approved on or after the start date listed on the petition, once it is approved, you generally would have to immediately stop using the H-4 EAD. (06.Jul.2022)

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