How long as your I-140 been pending?

I believe you could possibly file the i485 even without having the i140 approved seeing that it is viable to file concurrently

You may only file Form I-485 when your EB-2 NIW priority date is current under the Visa Bulletin and you are physically eligible to adjust status in the U.S. Filing for OPT or receiving an OPT EAD is not a prerequisite for filing I-485, they are separate processes serving different purposes (F-1 temporary work authorization vs. immigrant intent adjustment). There is no requirement to wait for the physical OPT EAD card before filing I-485, but you must maintain valid F-1 status at the time of filing. However, once a properly filed I-485 is pending, you become eligible to apply for an I-485-based EAD and advance parole, which is usually the faster route to work authorization compared to OPT timing. The main risk is filing I-485 too early (before visa bulletin current) or before maintaining lawful status, which can result in denial or ineligibility to adjust. Practically, most applicants file I-485 immediately once the priority date becomes current, regardless of OPT EAD issuance, to activate faster employment authorization through the pending adjustment category. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask them in our next Lawfully office hours session! - Attorney MaryJoy Chuba (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.)