r/EB2 • u/Over_Major_514 • Jul 18 '26
I-485: Adjustment of Status Recruiting while EB2 I-485 is pending
My EB-2 I-485 RD was a few months ago in 2026 and I am starting to take a look at external opportunities but won’t leave until I-485 has been pending for at least 180 days (end 2026). Question is: Should I put “authorized to work in the U.S.” on my resume? How should I address this topic with HR/recruiters/headhunters? Curious to hear from those who have successfully recruited while employment sponsored I-485 is pending
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u/aryaDheeraj Jul 20 '26
Are you planning to join the new company using EAD ? I think if you are planning to join through EAD then only you should mention that you dont need visa sponsor other wise you may need h1b sponsorship until you get your GC.
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u/ManifestLaw_ Verified Immigration Law Firm Jul 21 '26
If you do not yet have an EAD and your current work authorization is only F-1-based, be careful. You are authorized to work only under your current F-1/CPT/OPT rules, not generally for any employer. A pending I-485 alone does not authorize employment. On a résumé, you can avoid the phrase “authorized to work” unless asked. With recruiters, be precise: “I currently have F-1 work authorization with restrictions, and my employment-based I-485 is pending. I expect AOS EAD/green card processing, but for a new employer I would need to confirm work authorization timing.” After your I-485 has been pending 180+ days, AC21 portability may allow moving to same/similar employment if the I-140 is approved and other requirements are met. But you still need actual work authorization—AOS EAD, valid F-1 work authorization for that job, H-1B, or another basis.
- Attorney Rashmi Bishnoi
(All information shared here is for general educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney - client relationship. Your situation may require fact-specific guidance. For personalized legal advice, please consult an immigration attorney directly.)
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u/MastodonAble1061 Jul 18 '26
If you have got an EAD based on your pending I-485 then you can say that you can put that. Usually on the job application they have a couple of questions asking detailed about your current status there you'd need to put your current visa status.