A Request for Evidence (RFE) is a USCIS notice asking for additional evidence before USCIS decides a pending application or petition. It is not the same thing as an approval or denial.
Read the actual notice carefully
Do not rely only on an online status message. Preserve every page of the RFE and identify:
- the receipt number and form involved;
- the date of the notice;
- the response deadline shown on the notice;
- each item USCIS says is missing or insufficient;
- where and how USCIS instructs you to respond; and
- whether the notice contains a response cover sheet or other required instructions.
Deadlines and response procedures can be case-specific. Use the notice itself and current USCIS instructions.
Build an RFE response matrix
Create one row for each request: RFE item | What USCIS asks for | Evidence available | Evidence missing | Explanation needed | Translation needed | Attorney question.
This reduces the risk of responding thoroughly to one issue while overlooking another.
Preserve the response package
Keep the RFE, every document submitted in response, translations, declarations/explanations, the final response cover letter if used, and proof that USCIS received the response. Do not mail your only original unless the instructions specifically require an original.
If evidence is unavailable
Do not fabricate it. Document what is unavailable, why, what attempts were made to obtain it, and what alternative evidence exists. The legal sufficiency of an explanation or substitute evidence depends on the benefit and facts, so get qualified help when possible.
Do not miss the deadline while collecting a “perfect” file
If you are struggling to obtain evidence, contact your attorney or accredited representative promptly. Do not assume USCIS will automatically extend the deadline.
Official resources
This page is general educational information, not legal advice. Always follow the instructions and deadline on your specific USCIS notice.