Form I-824 Guide

USCIS evaluates the completeness of the application, the validity of the signature, and the relevance of the supporting documents. A common mismatch occurs when applicants fail to provide their Receipt Number or A-Number, which are essential for linking their request to the previous approval.

• Submit a copy of the approved application or petition.
• Provide your A-Number to link your records.
• Include your Receipt Number to reference the previous approval.
• Attach any relevant supporting documents as specified in the instructions.
• Ensure translations are certified and complete.

• Missing required fields in the application.
• Invalid or missing signature.
• Failure to provide supporting documents.
• Submitting original documents when not required.

• Complete Form I-824 accurately.
• Provide a valid signature.
• Include your A-Number if applicable.
• Attach copies of supporting documents.
• Submit translations for foreign language documents.
• Ensure the form is filed before the previous approval expires.

• General Instructions

  Follow the guidelines for completing the form and submitting required documents.

• Specific Instructions

  Detailed instructions on how to fill out each part of the application.

• National Visa Center

  Information on how to contact the National Visa Center for related inquiries.

• Processing Information

  Details on how your application will be processed and what to expect.

• Address Change

  Instructions for notifying USCIS of any address changes after filing.

• DHS Privacy Notice

  Information on how your personal data will be handled by DHS.

• Part 1. Information About You (Person filing this Application)
  • Item Number 1. Provide your full legal name.
  • Item Number 2. Provide your current or recent immigration status.
  • Item Number 3. Provide your Alien Registration Number (A-Number) if applicable.
• Part 2. Reason for Request
  • Item Number 1.a. Indicate the action you are requesting.
  • Item Number 1.b. Provide the Receipt Number of the previously approved petition.
• Part 4. Applicant’s Contact Information, Certification, and Signature
  • Item Number 1. Provide your mailing address.
  • Item Number 2. Provide your physical address.
  • Item Number 3. Sign and date your application.
  • Action on an Approved Application or Petition
  • What Is the Purpose of Form I-824?
  • When Must I Use Form I-824?
  • For applications previously approved by CBP
  • When Should I Not File Form I-824?
  • Application for Naturalization, for your personal records;
  • accompanying or following to join you;
  • nonimmigrant application or petition;
  • the original petitioner has ended;
  • Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Document;

• Evidence of identity (passport, government ID, or USCIS-issued document).
• Evidence of current immigration status or admission/parole.
• Evidence that supports the eligibility category selected.
• Evidence of any required family relationship or sponsorship.

• Missing or invalid signature on the application.
• Submitting original documents when not required.
• Failing to provide a complete English translation for foreign documents.
• Not including the Receipt Number of the previously approved petition.
• Leaving required fields blank.
• Using a stamped or typewritten name instead of a handwritten signature.

• Situation: An applicant is preparing I-824 and must include all required evidence. Task: They submit a complete packet within a 30-day preparation window. Action: They compile identity records, eligibility evidence, and the filing fee before submitting. Result: The petition is accepted without a request for missing items.
• Situation: A filer is close to a deadline for I-824. Task: They submit within the required 90-day timeline. Action: They finalize the packet and file within the stated window. Result: The case proceeds without a late-filing issue.
• Situation: A petitioner must reference a receipt number. Task: They match the receipt number to the underlying petition. Action: They include the exact receipt number on I-824 and attach the notice copy. Result: USCIS can verify the underlying filing quickly.

• Form I-824 can be used for pending applications, which is incorrect.
• A photocopy of a signature is not valid, which is false; a scanned copy is acceptable.
• You can submit original documents without risk, which is misleading; originals may be destroyed.
• You can file Form I-824 for any type of request, which is incorrect; it is only for specific actions on approved applications.

This guide is built from the official USCIS instructions for Form I-824, ensuring you have the most current and accurate information. It provides non-legal advice to help you navigate the application process effectively.

• Browse all forms
• Find My Visa