from USCIS
I am an F-1 nonimmigrant who possesses Optional Practical Training (OPT)
employment authorization. Would there be continuous employment if I file a
petition requesting H-4 nonimmigrant status concurrently with an EAD?
As an F-1 nonimmigrant who has employment authorization under OPT, you
are allowed to work only as long as the OPT authorization remains valid.
Filing an application to change status from F-1 to H-4 nonimmigrant status
and/or an application for employment authorization based on H-4 status does
not extend your employment authorization under OPT or any previously granted
employment authorization. If you file a Form I-539 requesting to change
your nonimmigrant status to H-4 and you include a Form I-765, we will
adjudicate your Form I-765 only after we adjudicate your Form I-539 and
grant you H-4 status.