Last updated: November 9, 2025.
By Asel Williams, Esq. · Columbia Law School · Licensed immigration attorney
What is Form I-824?
Form I-824, Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition, is used to request specific actions on an immigration petition or application that has already been approved.
If you need USCIS to perform certain actions related to your previously approved petition—such as:
- Issuing a duplicate approval notice
- Changing the processing location (for example, from Adjustment of Status to Consular Processing), or
- Any other request related to your case
Who Can File Form I-824?
Form I-824 can be filed by individuals who have an approved petition or application and require further USCIS action.
Eligible filers include:
- Petitioners or Applicants: The person who initially submitted the petition or application can file Form I-824 to request additional actions.
- Authorized Representatives: Attorneys or accredited representatives can submit Form I-824 on behalf of their clients, provided they have proper authorization.
- Beneficiaries: Those who benefit from an approved petition, otherwise known as visa or green card applicants, can also use Form I-824 if they need further actions to be taken.
Who Cannot File Form I-824?
There are specific situations where Form I-824 cannot be used:
- Pending Applications: Form I-824 cannot be filed if your petition or application is still under review and has not been approved yet.
- Ineligible Requests: Certain types of immigration processes cannot be addressed using Form I-824. For example, it is not suitable for adjusting status or consular processing if these matters are unrelated to a previously approved petition.
- Non-Compliant Filings: Always refer to the most recent USCIS guidelines to ensure that Form I-824 is appropriate for your request, as there are specific instructions on what this form can and cannot address.
Form I-824 PDF
To file Form I-824, you need to use the most current version of the form. Here’s how to obtain and complete it:
- Download the Form: Go to the USCIS Form I-824 page. Download the latest PDF version of the form. Using an outdated edition of Form I-824 will lead to rejection of your application.
- Complete the Form: Fill out all required fields accurately and completely. Providing accurate and up-to-date information will help avoid delays or issues with your application. Sign and date the form.
- Submit the Form: Follow the submission instructions provided with the form. The exact location for submission may vary depending on the nature of your request.
Form I-824 filing fee
Form I-824 filing fee depends on your category:
| I-824 Filing Category | Paper Filing Fee |
| General Filing | $590 |
If you are filing as a person seeking or granted special immigrant visa or status as:
|
$0 |
| If you are filing as a person seeking or granted immigrant classification as a Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitioner (including derivatives). | $0 |
| If you are filing as a person seeking or granted Special Immigrant Juvenile classification. | $0 |
| If you are filing as a person seeking or granted T nonimmigrant status. | $0 |
| If you are filing as a person seeking or granted adjustment of status as an abused spouse or child under the Cuban Adjustment Act (CAA). | $0 |
| If you are filing as a person seeking or granted adjustment of status as an abused spouse or child under the Haitian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act (HRIFA). | $0 |
| If you are filing as a person seeking or granted U nonimmigrant status. | $0 |
| If you are an abused spouse or child applying for benefits under the Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act (NACARA). | $0 |
| If you are a battered spouse or child of a lawful permanent resident or U.S. citizen applying for cancellation of removal or adjustment of status under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) section 240A(b)(2). | $0 |
You may pay the fee with a money order, personal check, cashier’s check or pay by credit card using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions.
Form I-824 checklist of required documents
The checklist of required documents for Form I-824, “Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition,” must include the following items:
- Form I-824: Make sure the form is completed accurately, signed and dated in ink. Use the most recent edition of the form available on the USCIS website. USCIS will reject outdated editions of the form.
- Filing Fee: Include the required filing fee. Check the USCIS website for the current fee amount.
- Copy of the Approval Notice: Include a copy of the approval notice (front and back) for the original petition or application for which you are requesting action.
- Copy of the U.S. naturalization certificate (front and back) – only if you are requesting to notify the U.S. Department of State of your naturalization status.
- Cover Letter: Provide a cover letter that clearly states the reason for filing Form I-824 and the specific action you are requesting.
- G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance (optional): If you want to receive electronic notification (email or text) when USCIS accepts your form, you can include Form G-1145.
Where to send Form I-824
The address to which you should send Form I-824, “Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition,” depends on whether you want to submit this form with USCIS or CBP and your location:
Form I-824 filing address:
| If you are filing with: | Mail your application to: |
|---|---|
| USCIS | USCIS Phoenix Lockbox
U.S. Postal Service (USPS): USCIS FedEx, UPS, and DHL deliveries: USCIS |
| CBP | CBP Admissibility Review Office 22685 Holiday Park Drive, Suite 10 Sterling, VA 20598-1234 |
Check the correct mailing address on USCIS Direct Filing Addresses for Form I-824 page.
The address may vary based on whether you are using the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), FedEx, UPS, or another courier service.
Form I-824 processing time
The average Form I-824 processing time is published on the USCIS Processing Times page:
- California Service Center – 3.5 months
- National Benefits Center – 9.5 months
- Nebraska Service Center – 21 months
- Texas Service Center – 12 months
- Vermont Service Center – 15.5. months
Processing times can vary based on factors such as the type of request and the workload at the specific USCIS service center handling the case.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information on Form I-824 processing times, you visit the USCIS Processing Times page, choose “Form I-824” and select your service center. The service center handling your application can be found in the bottom left corner of Form I-824 receipt notice.
Form I-824 Approved: What Happens Next?
If Form I-824 is approved, the subsequent steps depend on the action you requested:
- Duplicate Approval Notice: If you requested a duplicate approval notice, USCIS will issue and send a new copy to you or your representative.
- Change of Processing Location: If you asked for a change in the processing location of your petition, USCIS will transfer your case to the new location. You will receive guidance or updates regarding the new processing center.
- Other Actions: For other types of requests, follow any instructions provided by USCIS to continue with the next steps in your immigration process.
Form I-824 Denied
If Form I-824 is denied, USCIS will send a notice explaining the reasons for the denial. Common denial reasons include:
- Ineligibility: The request may not meet the criteria for Form I-824.
- Incomplete Information: Missing or incorrect details on the form can lead to a denial.
- Non-Compliance: Not adhering to USCIS instructions or requirements can result in a denial.
If your form is denied, review the notice carefully for instructions on how to proceed. You may have options for appeal or re-filing, depending on the specific situation.
Form I-824 FAQs
What is Form I-824 used for?
Form I-824 is used to request specific actions on an already approved immigration petition or application. This includes requests for duplicate approval notices, changes in the processing location, and other related actions.
How long does it take to get Form I-824 approved?
Processing times for Form I-824 can vary depending on the service center. According to the latest information from USCIS, 80% of cases are completed in:
-
- Nebraska Service Center: About 9.5 months.
- Texas Service Center: About 14 months.
- California Service Center: About 5.5 months.
- Vermont Service Center: About 16 months.
- National Benefits Center: About 7.5 months.
- Potomac Service Center: About 12.5 months
For the most current processing times, use the USCIS processing times tool or call USCIS at (800) 375-5283.
How much is the filing fee for Form I-824?
The filing fee for Form I-824 is $590, according to the latest USCIS fee schedule. This fee must be paid at the time of filing the form to cover the processing costs.
Need help?
Consulting with our experienced and knowledgeable immigration attorney can provide valuable insights into the current processing timelines.