Form I-824, also called the Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition, allows you to request specific actions related to an immigration application or petition already approved by USCIS. It requests updates or additional actions for an existing approval, unlike forms used to apply for new immigration benefits.
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 it:
- Request a Copy of an Approved Application or Petition: If you have lost or damaged your approval notice or petition, you can use it 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 USCIS has approved your entry into the U.S. but you lost or damaged your approval notice, you can file Form I-824 to request information from CBP about petitions like 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 it 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, you cannot use Form I-824 if your application has been denied or is no longer valid.
- 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 it 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) can avoid paying the filing fee by checking Part 2, Item 1.c on the form. This option directs 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 it depends on various factors, including the type of application or petition you are updating and its filing location. USCIS typically processes this form at one of its 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.
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