An RFE, or Request for Evidence, is a request made by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for additional information or documentation regarding an application for immigration benefits. An RFE is issued when the USCIS needs more information to determine whether an applicant is eligible for the immigration benefit being sought.
An RFE, or Request for Evidence, can be issued in response to a variety of different immigration petitions, including petitions for:
- Nonimmigrant visas, such as H-1B visas for specialty occupations, L-1 visas for intracompany transfers, and F-1 visas for students.
- Immigrant visas, such as family-based visas and employment-based visas.
- Adjustment of status, which is the process of applying for a green card while in the United States.
- Naturalization, which is the process of applying for U.S. citizenship.
- Asylum, which is a form of protection for individuals who have been persecuted or fear persecution in their home countries.
- Other immigration benefits, such as DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and TPS (Temporary Protected Status).
In general, an RFE may be issued if the USCIS needs additional information or documentation to determine whether an applicant is eligible for the immigration benefit being sought.
If you receive an RFE, it is important to carefully review the request and gather any additional information or documentation that is requested. You should respond to the RFE as soon as possible, as the USCIS will not make a decision on your application until it has received all of the required information.
Here are some general steps to follow if you receive an RFE:
- Read the RFE carefully to understand what information or documentation the USCIS is requesting.
- Gather any additional information or documentation that is requested. If you are unable to provide the requested information, you should explain why.
- Respond to the RFE within the time frame specified in the request. It is important to respond to the RFE on time, as failing to do so may result in the denial of your application.
- Make copies of all documents that you submit in response to the RFE and keep the copies for your records.
- Submit your response to the address specified in the RFE. If you are responding by mail, it is recommended that you use a method of delivery that provides tracking, such as certified mail.
It is also recommended that you seek the advice of a knowledgeable immigration specialist to help you understand the RFE and ensure that you provide the necessary information to the USCIS.
At USA Immigration Company, we can assist you with explaining what your RFE means, what steps to take to respond and even in drafting a powerful response. You can request our RFE services here.
