Receiving a Request for Evidence (RFE) from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can be stressful, but it doesn’t automatically mean your immigration case will be denied.

In many cases, an RFE simply means that USCIS needs additional information before making a decision. Whether you’re applying for a green card, U.S. citizenship, a family-based petition, or another immigration benefit, responding completely and on time is essential.

What Is a Request for Evidence?

A Request for Evidence is a formal notice issued by USCIS asking an applicant to provide additional documents or information that are needed to continue processing an immigration application.

USCIS sends an RFE when the evidence already submitted is not enough to determine eligibility.

An RFE is different from a denial. It gives you an opportunity to strengthen your application before a final decision is made.

Why Does USCIS Issue RFEs?

Every immigration case is unique, but some of the most common reasons include:

• Missing supporting documents.
• Unsigned forms.
• Incomplete applications.
• Insufficient financial evidence.
• Missing civil documents, such as birth or marriage certificates.
• Questions about eligibility.
• Requests for updated medical examinations.
• Additional proof of a bona fide marriage.
• Missing translations for foreign-language documents.

Many RFEs result from simple mistakes that can often be corrected if addressed promptly.

How Long Do You Have to Respond?

Your RFE notice will include a deadline by which USCIS must receive your response.

Missing the deadline can have serious consequences. If USCIS does not receive a complete response in time, your application may be decided based only on the evidence already in the file, which could result in a denial.

Always review the notice carefully and submit your response before the stated deadline.

Should You Send Only the Requested Documents?

Yes.

Read the RFE carefully and provide the specific evidence USCIS requested. At the same time, it’s often helpful to organize your response clearly and include any additional supporting documents that directly address the issues raised in the notice.

A complete and organized response can make it easier for USCIS to review your case.

Common Mistakes Applicants Make

Applicants sometimes make the process more difficult by:

• Ignoring the RFE.
• Missing the response deadline.
• Sending incomplete documents.
• Submitting documents that were not translated properly.
• Failing to explain unusual circumstances.
• Sending original documents when copies were requested.
• Providing information unrelated to the RFE.

Carefully following the instructions in the notice can help avoid unnecessary delays.

What Happens After You Respond?

After USCIS receives your response, the agency will continue reviewing your application.

Depending on the case, USCIS may:

• Approve the application.
• Deny the application.
• Request additional information in limited situations.
• Schedule an interview if one is required.

Processing times after an RFE vary based on the type of case and USCIS workload.

Why Legal Guidance Can Help

An RFE often highlights legal or factual issues that need to be addressed clearly.

An experienced immigration attorney can review the notice, identify exactly what USCIS is requesting, prepare a well-organized response, and help avoid mistakes that could delay or jeopardize your application.

Herrera Firm Can Help

If you’ve received a Request for Evidence, you don’t have to navigate the process alone.

At Herrera Firm, we help clients understand USCIS notices, prepare complete RFE responses, and move their immigration cases forward with confidence.

Contact Herrera Firm Today

If you’ve received an RFE from USCIS, contact Herrera Firm today to schedule a consultation. Our immigration team can review your notice, explain your options, and help you prepare a strong response.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is receiving an RFE a bad sign?

No. An RFE simply means USCIS needs more information before making a decision. Many applications are approved after a complete response is submitted.

Can USCIS deny my case after an RFE?

Yes. If the requested evidence is not provided or does not establish eligibility, USCIS may deny the application.

Can I upload my RFE response online?

Some applicants may respond through their USCIS online account, while others must mail their response. Follow the instructions provided in your RFE notice.

Should I hire an attorney after receiving an RFE?

While not required, many applicants choose to consult an immigration attorney to ensure the response fully addresses USCIS’s concerns.