Form I-824, also known as the Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition, is a U.S. immigration form used to request specific actions related to an immigration application or petition that has already been approved by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services USCIS. Unlike other forms that are used to apply for immigration benefits, Form I-824 is used when you need updates or further actions regarding an already approved application.
In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about Form I-824, including its purpose, when and why you should file it, the cost to file, how long it takes to process, and much more.
Why Should You File Form I-824
Form I-824 is primarily used when you need to take action on an already approved application or petition. Below are some common reasons why you might need to file Form I-824:
- Request a Copy of an Approved Application or Petition
If you have lost or damaged your approval notice or petition, you can use Form I-824 to request a duplicate of your Notice of Action (Form I-797) or other related documents. - Request Information from U.S. Customs and Border Protection CBP
If you have been approved to enter the U.S. but lost or damaged your approval notice, you can file Form I-824 to request information from CBP about petitions such as the Form I-192 (Application for Advance Permission to Enter as a Nonimmigrant), Form I-212 (Application for Readmission After Deportation), and others. - Notify a U.S. Embassy or Consulate
If you have received approval for entry to the U.S. or obtained permanent resident status, Form I-824 can help you notify the U.S. Embassy or consulate about your USCIS decision. This can also inform them that your dependents may now be eligible to apply for immigrant visas. - Notify the National Visa Center NVC
If your USCIS decision affects your immigration status, you may need to use Form I-824 to inform the National Visa Center NVC. - Notify the U.S. Department of State About Your Naturalization Status
If you recently became a U.S. citizen through naturalization, Form I-824 allows you to request that USCIS notify the State Department about your new citizenship status.
When Should You NOT File Form I-824?
While Form I-824 can be helpful in certain situations, it is not meant for all immigration requests. Here are cases when you should not file this form:
- To apply for an immigration benefit for the first time: Form I-824 is not an initial application for a visa, green card, or any other immigration benefit.
- To request information on a denied or invalid application: If your application has been denied or is no longer valid, Form I-824 cannot be used.
- For pending applications: If your application is still under review and you want an update on its status, Form I-824 is not the right form.
- For a request concerning a pending or rejected application: Form I-824 is only for approved applications.
How Much Does Form I-824 Cost?
The current filing fee for Form I-824 is $590. You need to pay this fee directly to USCIS when you submit the form.
Important Tip for Afghan Applicants: Afghan applicants applying for a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) are not required to pay the filing fee if they check Part 2, Item 1.c on the form, which requests USCIS to notify a U.S. consulate through the National Visa Center (NVC) about their adjustment to permanent residency.
How Long Does It Take to Process Form I-824?
The processing time for Form I-824 can vary based on several factors, such as the type of application or petition you are seeking an update on and where it is filed. This form is typically processed at one of the USCIS Service Centers or the National Benefits Center.
To get an accurate estimate of how long it will take to process your Form I-824, you can visit the USCIS processing times page. This page provides updated processing times for different USCIS centers, so you can see how long it will take to receive a response.
Key Takeaways
- Form I-824 is used for requesting actions on approved petitions or applications.
- It is not for initial immigration applications, pending applications, or denied applications.
- It can be used to request a copy of approved forms, notify U.S. embassies, consulates, or other agencies about a USCIS decision, and more.
- The filing fee for Form I-824 is $590, and Afghan SIV applicants may be exempt from the fee.
- Processing times vary, so it’s important to check USCIS’ official site for updates.
How Can Law and Visas Help?
Navigating the immigration process can be complicated, especially when you need to take action on an approved application or petition. Whether you are filing Form I-824 to request a duplicate notice, notify the National Visa Center, or inform a U.S. Embassy of a USCIS decision, Law and Visas can guide you through the process.
We make it easier for you to understand immigration forms, file them correctly, and keep track of important updates. If you need assistance with your Form I-824 or any other immigration needs, contact Law and Visas today.
Whether you need a copy of an approved petition, an update on your application, or to inform another agency about your immigration status, Form I-824 is an essential tool for managing approved applications. By understanding the purpose of the form, when to use it, and the costs and processing times involved, you can ensure that your immigration process stays on track. For expert help with your immigration needs, reach out to Law and Visas, your trusted partner for all your immigration services.
