Last updated on November 21, 2025
A Request for Initial Evidence (RFE) is not a denial but simply a request for more proof and clarity. You just need to understand the process, collect the necessary documents, and be proactive. By following this approach, you can maximize your success after you get an RFE. For so many individuals, support from professional credential evaluation services is the best way to submit a response. So, don’t let an RFE be an obstacle; in fact, use it as an opportunity to make your case even stronger.
If you’re wondering how to respond to an RFE, this blog post will guide you through each step. We will also share expert tips on how you can submit a strong response.
What is a Request for Initial Evidence (RFE)?
A request for Initial Evidence (RFE) is a formal letter sent by USCIS when the evidence you submit is not enough, missing, incomplete, or unclear. It’s simple; USCIS wants you to give them more information to help your case move forward. This happens pretty often, but it does not mean your case is denied. Instead, it indicated that USCIS needs additional evidence to continue processing your application.
RFEs are usually issues for immigration petitions like H1B visas, I-485 green card applications, and other employment-based categories. It allows USCIS officers to confirm your eligibility based on evidence from you. Therefore, educating yourself about the RFE meaning in a visa petition helps you stay alert and calm and respond the right way.
While every initial evidence request for a visa application has its facts, the goal is always the same: to fulfill any requirements in the application that might otherwise prevent an officer from making a decision.
Common Reasons for Receiving an RFE
Knowing why people get an RFE can help you avoid problems and save time. Here are some of the most common triggers:
- Understanding why you received a Request for Initial Evidence can help you craft a better response. USCIS usually asks for more proof when the papers (passport number, work history, or even a spelling mistake) you submit do not match your application details.
- Requests for an H1B visa might question your job’s specialty or ask for proof of your skills and qualifications.
- Green card applicants usually get an RFE for missing medical exams or issues with sponsor finances.
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In case you miss sending a document like a diploma or a medical report, you’re most likely to get an RFE.
- RFEs are common in employment-based cases. USCIS might request payroll records, proof of a job offer, or company financials to confirm eligibility.
Each initial evidence request for a visa application is unique, but knowing common triggers will help you prepare a complete and accurate response.
How Long After an RFE Response are Green Card Applications Processed?
Now you must be wondering, “What happens after I receive an RFE”? Worry not. You just need to respond in a timely manner. USCIS usually processes RFE responses within 60 days. However, their decision time depends on how complicated your case is and how many applications they are working on.
After submitting your RFE response, USCIS reviews your documents before proceeding further. The timeline can vary depending on various factors. It could be anything from the type of petition, the complexity of the case, or the USCIS workload.
If your case involves more than one issue or detailed verification, expect additional waiting time. To stay updated, check your case status regularly on the official USCIS online portal.You can also consider consulting an immigration professional for more guidance.
Steps to Responding to a Request for Initial Evidence
- Stay Updated: Applicants can use the case tracking tool online to stay updated. If it is taking longer than expected, you can either talk to an immigration lawyer or USCIS for help.
- Read the Notice Completely: Take time to read the entire letter. USCIS lets you know in detail what the issue is and the evidence they want. Make a checklist using that list.
- Collect All Required Evidence: Collect every document USCIS asks for. Use recent versions and make sure details match your application. Include papers like employment letters, pay stubs, updated medical exams, and degree evaluations, etc.
- Organize Your Submission: Keep your documents in the requested order. Add labels to help the officers find what they are looking for. And a well-written cover letter explaining what you are sending would be really appreciated.
- Professional Help Can Make a Difference: If you are unsure about anything, seek help from credential evaluation services. Use expert opinion letters or certified translations to strengthen your response to make your case clearer for USCIS.
- Submit Everything Before the Deadline: You must submit your full response on time. Do not miss the deadline; otherwise, USCIS may deny your case by default.
- Send with Tracking: Use a reliable shipping method to keep track of your documents. Always ask for a tracking number or link for your own peace of mind and proof of delivery. Follow up regularly.
By following this USCIS Request for Evidence guide, you can improve your chances of Approval for your application. Our best RFE response tip would be to include that your submission is complete, professional, and aligned with USCIS expectations.
What Happens After an RFE Response?
Once USCIS receives your response, they now review the new evidence and make a decision based on that proof.
- Approval: If you have submitted all the required documents and they meet USCIS requirements, your petition moves forward.
- Denial: If the evidence fails to prove your eligibility or is incomplete, USCIS can deny the petition.
- Another RFE: Sometimes, if you’re lucky, a second RFE is issued instead of a denial. If your first response does not fully address the USCIS question, you need to resubmit your documents.
Always include credential evaluations or expert opinion letters if your case involves educational or employment-related verification.
How Document Evaluation Can Help You Respond to RFEs
At Document Evaluation LLC, we have helped hundreds of applicants over the years. Therefore, we are completely aware of how important a strong and timely RFE response can be. Our expert credential evaluation services can help you present clear and credible documentation that meets USCIS standards.
Our Services Include:
- Credential Evaluation Services: We help you verify that your foreign degrees are equivalent to U.S. academic standards.
- Work Experience Evaluations: Our team helps you demonstrate how your professional background supports your visa eligibility.
- Expert Opinion Letters: We can get you an authoritative statement from an industry expert to strengthen your case.
- Translation Services: We deliver certified translations for all non-English documents to ensure accuracy.
Partner up with Document Evaluation LLC to gain reliable support that can improve your RFE outcome.
Conclusion
A Request for Initial Evidence (RFE) may seem like a big hurdle, and honestly, it is, but it can be solved. By understanding what USCIS expects from you and responding with a proper strategy, you can move your application forward without any worries.
Whether you are facing an RFE for a green card, an H1B visa, or any other petition, Document Evaluation can guide you through each step. Our team helps applicants like you provide precise and compliant documentation on time. Choose us to present your case in such a way that meets USCIS requirements and reduces the risks of denial.
Do not let an RFE slow down your immigration journey or career adventure. With us, using it is an opportunity to make your case even stronger.
Contact Document Evaluation LLC, your go-to partner for credential evaluation services, Expert Opinion Letters, and RFE support.