After EB-1A approval, can I keep my F-1 visa and work off-campus?

No. The approval of the EB-1A does not, on its own, change what the F-1 allows. As long as you maintain student status, F-1 rules continue to apply, and off-campus work remains restricted to situations that require specific authorization, such as OPT or CPT. An approved EB-1A petition does not automatically unlock that type of work.

There is also a sensitive issue of intent. The F-1 is a nonimmigrant visa, which assumes temporary stay, while the EB-1A demonstrates immigrant intent. This combination can raise questions about your intent to maintain student status and must be handled carefully.

• Off-campus work on F-1 requires authorization (OPT, CPT, or equivalent).
• Having the EB-1A approved does not by itself expand F-1 work permissions.
• Immigrant intent may conflict with the temporary nature of the F-1.

Working without proper authorization puts your status at risk. It is worth reviewing the conditions of each status and checking updated guidance from the official source (USCIS) or with a specialist before taking action.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.