Ok so here is the first thing i believe you are the primary applicant in your application for political Asylum. If you are then that was the mistake right there usually i suggest everybody not to apply if you are in OPT. There is no certain reason why officer gets confused but there have been case where even most strong and definite case was sent to court due to misunderstanding on current status of applicant. that could be another reason why your decision was delayed (told ur decision will be mailed) its just my assumption which could  be right or wrong. 

Your other concern about whether to drop the case or not, its completely up to you. after it goes to pending you will have option to whether to drop the case or keep fighting as long as you are in status but if you go out of status you can't drop the case and if you did they will start deportation process because of lack of valid status. REGARDING work permit applying after they decide your case they will send you a letter and you will have to proceed from there. So i think it would be better to talk to your wife first and make a combine decision  so think well before you pick your way and keep praying. 

I wish you all the BEST.

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Last edited: 04-Jun-10 12:48 AM