Not a Pro in this field but I believe once you apply for the greencard you are in a whole new catagory when it comes to your visa status. You will be considered a "pending I 485" for your visa status and can stay legally in the country without a visa until you hear a decision from the USCIS regarding your greencard application. You can also work during this time if you have the EAD card. Again, this is not from a person in this field.... but I am in a similar situation (expired H1 visa) but I am legally staying and working in the US with on a "pending I 485" status.  

nicknath · Mar 28, 2010 11:24 AM

OPT bata directly (without going to H1) GC apply garna milcha ra bhanyaa ??

bhakte dai · Mar 28, 2010 11:45 AM

Opt to green card milchha tara bachelors ko eb3 ma processing hunchha so wait time is more that 5 years.....it would be best to get h1 first and do the green card.

iNepal · Mar 29, 2010 12:48 AM

OPT bata directly greencard garyo bhane EAD card within 14 mths aaudaina hola..coz EB3 ko processing time is very long...even after u apply for greencard you have to have atleast H1 visa or EAD card to work legally..so it is better to get H1 first ani then apply for greencard...yo process ma EAD card chito naaye pani u will still have H1.. btw please do more research through official immigration websites for greencard process and requirements...also get hold of immigration lawyer at your company and ask him/her....rather than completly depending on sajha users..since each person ko case different huncha you will not be able to get complete information through sajha.. All the Best !!!!

anushka1 · Mar 29, 2010 9:27 AM

Hi coresoul, I have one question for you regarding 17 month OPT extension. I am on Extension with a consultancy and they are running payroll for about 15 hrs a week. People say that if u don't have payroll run, you become out of status. Any idea or information on this?

nouvelzelande · Mar 31, 2010 9:39 AM