The IRS estimates that most refunds are issued within 21 days. However, just like last year, refunds with EIC will typically take longer than 21 days, especially at the beginning of the filing season. The IRS doesn't expect to release any refunds with EIC until the end of February.
From the IRS: The IRS reminds taxpayers that, by law, the IRS cannot issue refunds claiming the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) before mid-February. While the IRS will process those returns when received, it cannot issue related refunds before mid-February. The IRS expects the earliest EITC/ACTC related refunds to be available in taxpayer bank accounts or on debit cards starting on Feb. 27, 2018, if they chose direct deposit and there are no other issues with the tax return.
and that delay is permanent for all years going forward.