Received an RFE: How to Read Between USCIS’s Line
Getting a Request for Evidence (RFE) from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can feel alarming. The envelope arrives, the letter looks long and technical, and it is easy to worry that your case is in trouble.
An RFE does not mean your case will be denied. It means USCIS needs more information before finishing the decision. Understanding what the letter requests, why it was issued, and how to respond correctly can make the difference between approval and denial.
What is USCIS Really Saying When They Issue an RFE?
USCIS issues an RFE when an item in the application is missing, unclear, or insufficiently supported by the evidence submitted.
An RFE may signal that USCIS wants to:
Confirm your eligibility.
Clarify information that appears inconsistent.
See stronger documentation to support your claims.
It is not a punishment. It is your opportunity to complete the picture.
Why Did You Receive an RFE?
RFEs are common across many case types.
Some of the most frequent reasons include:
Missing initial documents.
Evidence that does not match what USCIS records show.
Forms completed incorrectly or not signed.
Lack of proof regarding income, marriage, or qualifying relationships.
Weak documentation of work history, education, or humanitarian claims.
Sometimes, USCIS uses template language, which can make the letter appear more formal than it is. The real issue is usually specific and can often be addressed with the correct response.
How Do You Figure Out What USCIS Really Wants?
The key is to slow down and read carefully. RFEs are organized in parts. Understanding each part helps you interpret the request.
Focus on:
The section that explains the law USCIS is applying.
The specific list of documents they ask for.
Any examples they provide of acceptable evidence.
Highlight or underline what matters. Do not guess. USCIS tells you precisely what they believe is missing, even if the language feels technical.
What Should You Never Do After Receiving an RFE?
A few common mistakes create unnecessary risk.
Avoid:
Ignoring the deadline.
Sending random documents hoping something helps.
Rewriting the entire application without a strategy.
Mailing originals, you may never get back.
Rushing or overreacting can confuse the officer and weaken your case rather than strengthen it.
How Do You Build a Strong RFE Response?
A well-prepared RFE response should connect the dots clearly.
A solid approach usually includes:
A concise cover letter explaining each document.
Evidence that directly answers each point raised.
Organized exhibits labeled clearly.
Explanations for anything that might appear inconsistent.
Think about it from the officer’s perspective. Make it easy for them to see how the new information satisfies the concern.
What if You Disagree With USCIS?
Sometimes USCIS misinterprets the facts or misapplies the law. Simply arguing back is rarely effective.
The stronger strategy is to:
Provide legal citations when appropriate.
Offer additional evidence that resolves confusion.
Explain calmly why your original submission was correct.
Tone matters. Professional, factual responses carry more credibility than defensive ones.
When Should You Ask for Legal Help?
Not every RFE requires an attorney, but many do. Complex cases, marriage-based filings, waivers, and employment matters benefit from experienced review.
Our immigration attorney can help:
Interpret the legal language.
Identify what USCIS is honestly questioning.
Prevent over-disclosure or harmful mistakes.
Draft a response that clearly addresses every concern.
Your goal is not just to respond. Your goal is to move the case toward approval.
If you received an RFE and are unsure how to proceed, the New York immigration attorneys at Sharma Law Associates can review your notice, assess what USCIS is asking, and help you prepare a strategic response.
Call 646-921-6630, contact us online, or schedule a consultation to get guidance before your deadline.
