Understanding RFE’s and Tips for Responding to Them

What Is an RFE?

When you apply for an immigration benefit—such as a green card, work permit, or visa—USCIS reviews your application to decide whether it meets all requirements. Sometimes USCIS cannot make a decision because something is missing, unclear, or needs more documentation. When that happens, they may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE).

An RFE is not a denial. It means USCIS is giving you an opportunity to fix issues or provide additional proof so they can continue reviewing your case.

It’s important to remember that it is the responsibility of the applicant to prove to USCIS that they meet the requirements. Based on the information provided, it is then USCIS’ job to determine if the requirements have been met. 

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed immigration attorney.

What’s Inside an RFE Notice?

Most RFE notices follow a structured format designed to tell you exactly what USCIS needs. You’ll typically see sections that explain:

• The rule or requirement USCIS is applying.
• What evidence you already submitted.
• What is missing, incomplete, or unclear (this is the most important section).
• How and when to respond, including the deadline and submission method.

A strong response directly addresses each request, in the same order USCIS lists them.

Why RFEs Matter

RFEs are common, but how you handle them matters a lot. Responding on your own can be risky if:

• You misunderstand what USCIS is asking for.
• You leave out required documents or explanations.
• You send a "piecemeal" response: USCIS generally only allows one response. If you send documents separately, they may ignore the second mailing and deny your case based on the first incomplete package.
• You miss the deadline (Note: Pandemic-era extensions have ended; deadlines are now firm).
• You send disorganized or incomplete materials.

Any of these issues can lead to a denial—even if the underlying case might otherwise be approvable. For people who are unsure how to respond, getting structured support can help reduce mistakes and stress. SimpleCitizen offers optional RFE support for existing customers who want guidance through this step.

Quick Reference: RFE Dos and Don’ts

How to Respond to an RFE (Best-Practice Overview)

This section explains general best practices and is meant to help you understand how RFEs are commonly handled. As a reminder, this is not legal advice. If you have questions or concerns for how to respond to your own RFE, please consult a licensed immigration attorney. 

1) Read the RFE Carefully

Read the notice more than once. Pay close attention to exactly what USCIS is requesting and whether they want documents, explanations, or both. Look for specific formatting or submission instructions. Remember, small details matter!

2) Create a Clear Checklist

Break the RFE into a checklist of individual requests. This helps ensure nothing is overlooked and makes it easier to organize your response in a way USCIS can quickly review.

3) Prepare a Written Response Letter

In addition to gathering documents, you should include a written response letter (cover letter). 

This letter typically:

• Identifies your case (names and receipt number).
• Lists each RFE request in order.
• Briefly explains what you are submitting for each item.

4) Include Only Relevant, Certified Evidence

Submit the specific evidence USCIS asked for. If a document is in a language other than English, you must include a certified translation. This includes a statement signed by the translator verifying that the translation is accurate and they are competent to translate.

5) Organize the Packet Clearly

A common organization approach includes:

• The original RFE notice on top (USCIS uses the barcode on this sheet to route your file).
• Your response cover letter.
• Evidence grouped and labeled to match each request.

6) Meet the Deadline Exactly

If USCIS does not receive your response by the deadline, they may deny the case. Build in time for mailing delays and always keep your tracking number and proof of delivery. Remember that USCIS will typically act based off of the day the shipment arrived, not the date the shipment was sent. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Sending an incomplete response: Forgetting one item can lead to an immediate denial. 
• Skipping a request: If a request is confusing, provide a written explanation rather than ignoring it.
• Standard translations: Failing to include the "Certification by Translator" statement for non-English documents.
• Waiting until the last day: Mail delays are common; aim to have your packet arrive at least one week before the deadline.
• Sending a response to the wrong place: The RFE letter includes strict instructions on how, when, and where to send the RFE response. This can be a physical USCIS location or an online location. Pay closer attention and make sure you submit your response the correct way. 

Final Thoughts

An RFE is USCIS saying: “We can’t finish reviewing your case yet—please show us exactly what we asked for.” Handled well, an RFE is often just a detour. Handled poorly, it can lead to a denial that creates delays, added costs, or long-term immigration complications.

If you’re an existing SimpleCitizen customer and feel unsure about how to respond, SimpleCitizen offers optional RFE support you can purchase to help you organize, understand, and respond to the notice correctly and on time.

If you’ve received an RFE and want extra guidance, explore SimpleCitizen’s RFE support options to get help preparing a clear, complete response—before the deadline. We’re happy you’re here!

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