Permanent residency through marriage while on F1 OPT

[ryan_thomas 0]

Hello!

I am a British citizen in the US on an F1 visa. I completed my doctoral degree this month and my OPT begins in July. My I-765 was approved and I recently received my EAD. I have signed a contract with an employer to begin employment (after my OPT start date, of course).

This month, I married an American citizen. My intention is to apply for permanent residency on the basis of marriage. My understanding of the process is that I need to submit an I-130, I-485, and the accompanying forms (I-693, for example).

I have a few questions which I would be extremely grateful to receive advice about:

1) Am I still eligible for employment through my current EAD, gained through F1 OPT status?

2) Do I need to file for a new I-765?

3) Does my job contract count as evidence of financial support for the I-864?

4) What is the difference between the G-325A and the G-325A? Which applies in my case?

Though my OPT is valid until July 2013, I am keen to begin the process sooner rather than later as our plans are to travel to the UK for Christmas. Basically, my concern is about being on two different "tracks" and receiving benefits from two different immigrant categories.

Thank you for your help - this is a confusing process!!

Ryan

[Harpa Timsah 13,258]

1. Yes.

2. You can; it's free. It will take 3 months to be approved. Your choice if you want it or not.

3. Yes, if your work will continue from the same source after you get your GC.

4. You need G-325A.

There is a good guide up top in the "Guides" section. Congrats on your marriage!