How can I work with an F-1 visa with a pending EB-5 approval?

Yes, you would be advised to maintain your F-1 status up until at least the filing and receipt of the adjustment of status. A few months after filing you will get a 5-year work authorization and can use that to undertake your internship.

You need to maintain some nonimmigrant status until you are able to file the adjustment.

If your EB-5 visa is current, you may apply for an I-485 and a work permit (EAD). This will allow you to work freely for any employer or independently. However, if you are currently under an F-1 visa and do not possess an EAD, your work authorizations are more limited as described below:

*Employment Options and Limitations for F-1 Visa Students in the U.S.*
International students holding an F-1 visa must adhere to specific employment regulations in the United States. Below is a detailed overview of these employment options:

*On-Campus Employment:*
- During the first academic year, F-1 visa students are only allowed to work on campus at their educational institution.
- Students are limited to 20 hours per week during the academic term, but they may work full-time during academic breaks.

*Optional Practical Training (OPT):*
- *Pre-Completion OPT:* Students can work in their field of study before graduation, but these hours count against the 12-month total allowed for OPT.
- *Post-Completion OPT:* After completing their studies, students may work for 12 months in their field of expertise.
- *STEM OPT Extension:* Students with degrees in certain science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) fields can apply for an additional 24-month extension, allowing up to 36 months of employment.

*Curricular Practical Training (CPT):*
- CPT allows students to work in roles related to their curriculum, such as internships or co-ops.
- It’s important to note that engaging in full-time CPT for 12 months or more disqualifies students from participating in post-completion OPT.

*Off-Campus Employment Due to Severe Economic Hardship:*
- In exceptional situations, students may apply for off-campus employment authorization due to severe economic hardship. Such requests are reviewed and approved on a case-by-case basis by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).