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Can I start working before my OPT EAD card physically arrives?

No. USCIS states that 'you may not begin your pre- or post-completion OPT until after we approve your Form I-765 and you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD).' You also cannot start before the employment start date printed on the card, even once it arrives. Working before then is unauthorized employment, which can jeopardize your status.

Watch out

Your OPT start date and unemployment clock both run from the start date on the EAD, so a late-arriving card shortens your usable OPT but does not let you start early.

Source: USCIS, 'Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 Students' (When to apply)

Informational, not legal advice. Immigration rules change and individual cases differ. Confirm anything that affects your status with your school’s DSO or an immigration attorney before acting.

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