I-824

[kevinlunsong]

My I-140 got approved in May 2004 without declaring my intentions for Consular Processing. Now I want to do Consular Processing but I heard I need to file for I-824 first. If so, how soon should I file for it? How long will it take, assuming it's going through NSC? What are the steps if I go this route? Thanks.

 

[vm1214]

I-824 can be applied only if you have opted for AOS during the I-140 and now you have changed your mind to CP processing.

You can file anytime with the I-140 approval notice and you should be getting the receipt in two weeks time after the submission.

You need to check your city US consulate if they accept the receipt of I-824 for your AC-140 case else you need to wait till your I-824 gets cleared. The processing time for I-824 always varies so it is hard to predict but if you haven't filed your I-485 then the chances of getting it cleared sooner is much more.

 

[alren]

It would be only advisable to switch to CP if your consulate processes AC140 cases. Otherwise the 824 approval and further might not save a lot of time over 485.