What is a Request for Evidence (RFE) and How Should You Respond?

November 25, 2025

Receiving a notice from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can understandably cause concern, particularly when it is a Request for Evidence (RFE). It is important to understand that an RFE does not signify a denial of your application; rather, it is an opportunity to furnish additional information that will strengthen your case and enable USCIS to make a favorable decision.

When preparing an RFE response, it is crucial to:

•   Address Each Point Meticulously: Respond to every request specified in the RFE with the exact information or documentation USCIS has requested.
•   Provide All Required Evidence: Ensure all requested documents, forms, and supplementary materials are included, organized clearly.
•   Submit Timely: Adhere strictly to the deadline provided by USCIS to avoid denial of your application.
•   Maintain Clarity and Organization: Present your response in a well-structured and easy-to-understand manner, often including a cover letter that outlines the contents.
•   Include Explanations: If any requested evidence cannot be provided, include a detailed explanation and alternative supporting documents.

At Zaveri Law Firm, we understand the anxiety an RFE can bring, and our team is here to assist you in preparing a thorough and precise response.

What Triggers an RFE?

An RFE is issued when a USCIS officer reviewing your application determines that there is not enough evidence to make a decision. The officer needs more information to verify the facts of your case and confirm your eligibility for the immigration benefit you are seeking. An RFE is specific to your application and will clearly state what information or documentation is missing.

Common reasons for receiving an RFE include:

• Insufficient Financial Documentation: You may not have provided enough evidence to prove you meet the income requirements, such as submitting incomplete tax returns or pay stubs.
• Missing Proof of a Relationship: In family-based cases, USCIS may require more evidence to confirm a bona fide relationship, like additional photos, joint financial records, or affidavits from friends and family.
• Unclear Personal Information: There may be discrepancies in names, dates of birth, or other vital information that need to be clarified.
• Lack of Required Documents: You may have simply forgotten to include a required document, like a birth certificate or a marriage certificate.

How Long Do You Have to Respond?

The RFE notice will specify a deadline for your response. Typically, you will have between 30 and 90 days to gather and submit the requested evidence. It is absolutely critical that you submit your response before this deadline. If you fail to respond on time, USCIS will make a decision based on the information they already have, which often leads to a denial. There are no extensions granted for RFE deadlines, so timely action is essential.

What Should Your Response Include?

Your response must be thorough, organized, and directly address every point raised in the RFE. Simply sending the missing documents is not enough; you should prepare a comprehensive package that makes it easy for the officer to approve your case.

A strong RFE response should include:

• The Original RFE Notice: You must include the original notice on top of your response package.
• A Detailed Cover Letter: This letter should clearly list each piece of evidence you are providing and explain how it satisfies the request.
• All Requested Evidence: Gather every document mentioned in the RFE. Ensure all copies are clear and legible.
• Organized and Labeled Documents: Arrange your evidence in the order it was requested in the RFE and use tabs to label each section. This helps the officer review your submission efficiently.

Responding to an RFE is a critical moment in your immigration case. A well-prepared response can lead to an approval, while a weak or incomplete one can result in a denial. You only get one chance to respond, so it is important to get it right.

Contact Us

If you have received an RFE and feel unsure about how to proceed, you do not have to handle it alone. Contact Zaveri Law Firm P.C. today. Our experienced team will help you understand the request, gather the necessary evidence, and craft a comprehensive response to give your case the best possible chance of success.