Request for Initial Evidence (RFE): How to Reply and What It Entails

Sometimes when the immigration benefits are received through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), applicants who wish to avail such immigration benefits encounter an extra process called the Request for Initial Evidence (RFE). The USCIS typically initiates this request when it deems the documents attached to an application or petition insufficient for decision-making purposes. As one of many people who have received an RFE, you must know how to respond to it to avoid complicating your case.

In this kind of blog post that we are about to write, we will discuss the following issues: <<what is a request for initial evidence>>, <<why is it issued?>>, and <<how to respond to the same>>. We will also show you how document evaluation is useful to guide you through this stage, particularly for H1B visa RFEs, I-485 applications, etc.

What is a Request for Initial Evidence (RFE)?

A Request for Initial Evidence, or simply RFE, is a communication by the USCIS in the social context of an immigration application or a petition that requests additional evidence to support an application or an immigration petition. This does not mean that your application is turned down; rather, it translates to the fact that the assessing authority wants more details.

This shows that RFEs are usually given for various forms, such as the H1B visa, I-485 green card applications, and many more immigration benefits. The request can cover areas such as the absence or inadequacy of records and aspects of inconsistency of the information given.

Common Reasons for Receiving an RFE

The key to better understanding the reasons for receiving an RFE is knowing how to prepare a better response to that letter. Some common reasons for RFEs include:

Incomplete Documentation: In some cases, CO may need additional materials to establish eligibility while the other forms or supporting documents are missing.

Discrepancies in Submitted Information: If the data written on the application form does not tally with that written on the other documents that you attach to your application, then USCIS may need clarification.

Insufficient Evidence of Qualifications: In H1B visa petitions, USCIS more often initiates a request for additional evidence questioning the beneficiary's qualifications in terms of education or work experience.

Employment-Based Visa RFEs: In any employment visa category, RFEs may request additional information about the employer's financial capacity or the proposed job description.

Every RFE is different: however, it is possible to outline some of the most common types of documents and actions that might be expected from an applicant to convince USCIS.

What is a Request for Initial Evidence (I-485)?

The I-485 application, or the application to adjust the status to permanent resident immigrant, or green card, is the most common form that is associated with RFE. A Request for Initial Evidence I-485 is a request for supplementary documents that might be issued when USCIS identifies problems concerning the applicant’s admissibility, medical examination, or financial sponsor.

For instance, USCIS may request new medical records or additional documentation from your sponsor regarding his or her financial capability. These requests need to be processed in a very careful and proper manner so as to get approvals on time.

How Long After RFE Response Green Card Applications Are Processed?

After the RFE response is submitted, the candidate just has to wait for the employer’s decision. In the context of green card, the time taken by the USCIS to go through the respondent’s response depends on a number of factors that include the kind of green card petition and the evidentiary depth of the case.

Generally, USCIS schedules it to take approximately 60 days to respond to an RFE, but this time depends on the workload and the nature of the RFE. If you have concerns about the time being taken, it is best advised that you get in touch with the USCIS online portal for your cases’ status or even with an immigration attorney.

Steps to Responding to a Request for Initial Evidence

Handling an RFE can seem daunting, but following these steps will help ensure that your response is strong and complete:

1. Carefully read the RFE notice: The first procedure to follow is to ensure that the applicant gains total clarity with the requirement that USCIS is demanding from him or her. Hence, each RFE will point out what documents or evidence may be required.

2. Gather the Required Evidence: After reading the RFE notice, one should collect all documents that might be necessary for the processing of his or her application. This may comprise educational or work experience assessment, health records, financial data, or an expert’s opinion.

3. Organize Your Evidence: Historically, when you have all the evidence that is needed, you arrange it in the way that USCIS is LA, making heads or tails of the matter as you have collected the evidence in the order prescribed by USCIS. Remember to use appropriate headings, and you should also indicate on the letter that the response contains the following:

4. Seek Professional Help: If you are doubtful of any of the response processes, then it is advisable to consult professionals. For example, Document Evaluations offers you credential evaluations, the expert’s opinion letter and other documentation that might enhance your response.

5. Submit Your Response Before the Deadline: When preparing responses to an RFE, time is important. Make sure to submit all required documents by the stated date in the RFE notice.

6. Track Your Submission: Express mail and request the tracking number in order to ensure that USCIS received your response on time.

7. Prepare for Follow-up: After completing your response, check the status of your case on the USCIS portal. Man yourself for extra work to be done or further information required out of the blue.

What Happens After RFE Response?

After reviewing this evidence again and submitting your RFE response, USCIS will make a decision. There are several possible outcomes:

Approval: If your answer meets the requirements of USCIS, then your petition or your application will be approved.

Denial: USCIS may reject the petition if there is little or no evidence or if proven problems persist.

Another RFE: Occasionally, after the applicant sends a reply to the RFE, USCIS may request additional materials if it is not sufficiently satisfactory on its part.

As you await a case decision, it's important to stay informed about its progress and any follow-up.

How Document Evaluations Can Help You Respond to RFEs

At Document Evaluations, we are fully aware of the need to provide correct and timely responses to any RFEs asked. At no point are our services geared towards helping applicants prepare enough to prove their case in the USCIS' preferred format to avoid delays or application denial.

Credential Evaluation Services: Many people in the United States are now required to present their educational credentials for H1B visas or any other immigration applications, and our credential evaluations make sure foreign degrees are properly recognized by USCIS.

Work Experience Evaluation: In the event that your RFE requires work experience, we provide assessments certifying your employment and professional competencies.

Expert Opinion Letters: As with complicated situations where further professional opinion is needed, we have prepared the immigration services expert opinion letters meeting your immigration needs.

Translation Services: We offer certified translations of documents in foreign languages, thereby making sure all your evidence is crystal clear to USCIS.

Conclusion

The consideration of a request for initial evidence is one that can be problematic, but with proper preparation and assistance from the professionals, the probability of success can be enhanced. Document Evaluations will assist you, no matter if it is an RFE to H1B visa, Request for Initial Evidence I-485, or any other immigration petition.

Our specialized officers are committed to providing credential evaluations, expert opinions, and many other elements that form the foundation of a strong and coherent RFE response. Do not be discouraged by an RFE; all you have to do is call the Best Credential Evaluation Agency today, and we will help you in every way to ensure that your immigration process is successful.