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How to Manage a Request for Evidence (RFE) in Your Immigration Application

How to Manage a Request for Evidence (RFE) in Your Immigration Application

Navigating the U.S. immigration process can be complex and demanding, particularly when you receive a Request for Evidence (RFE) from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). An RFE is not the end of the road but a call for further proof to support your case. How you respond can significantly impact the outcome of your application, that is why we always recommend securing legal counsel from a qualified immigration attorney.

In a nutshell, here are key steps and considerations to effectively manage an RFE:

Start Early

Time is of the essence when dealing with an RFE. You only get one chance to submit your response, so starting as soon as you receive the request ensures you have ample time to prepare a thorough and accurate submission. Gathering documents, preparing explanations, and mailing your response to USCIS before the deadline requires diligent planning and action.

Understand the Request

Work with your immigration attorney to carefully analyze the entire RFE to understand precisely what USCIS is asking for. This understanding is crucial because the response needs to address every query or concern raised by USCIS comprehensively.

Review The Original Submission

It's not uncommon for USCIS to ask for information you've already provided. Don't overlook this. Your immigration attorney will address any request directly by including a photocopy of the relevant document, even if it was part of your initial application.

Prepare Your Response With Your Immigration Attorney

Here's what an RFE response typically includes:

  • The original RFE document (not a photocopy).
  • All relevant documents in one package—subsequent submissions are not allowed.
  • If including photocopies of documents previously submitted, your immigration attorney will clearly indicate this in the response.
  • Provide necessary explanations to give context to the evidence being submitted
  • If the requested information can not be provided, your immigration attorney will explain why and, if possible, offer alternative evidence.

Send The Response

Your immigration attorney will mail the documents well before the deadline. They will use a shipping method that allows the law office to track the package and confirm its delivery. Keep a copy of the RFE and your response for your records.

Seek Professional Help

Addressing an RFE effectively requires a blend of business acumen and a deep understanding of USCIS's ever-evolving rules and preferences. At Visa Business Plans, we collaborate closely with immigration attorneys to prepare responses that can turn the tide in your favor. Whether it's fine-tuning business plans or crafting customized documents that include detailed job duties, feasibility studies, market analysis, or industry benchmarks, our expertise can be pivotal.

Our tailored responses are designed to address USCIS's concerns about your business or its operations professionally and meticulously. The quality of your RFE response can often mean the difference between visa approval and rejection.

In conclusion, receiving an RFE can be a pivotal moment in your immigration pathway. How you respond to it can significantly influence the outcome of your application. Starting early, understanding the request, reviewing your original submission, preparing a comprehensive response, and sending it in a timely manner are critical steps. For those seeking professional assistance, Visa Business Plans stands ready to support you and your attorney with the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of RFE responses through business plans or other business deliverables. Contact us today at (305) 777.0228 for expert guidance and support in making your immigration goals a reality.


The information provided in this blog is intended solely for informational purposes. While we strive to offer accurate and up-to-date content, it should not be considered legal advice. Immigration laws and regulations are subject to change, and individual circumstances can vary widely. For personalized guidance and legal advice regarding your specific immigration situation, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified immigration attorney who can provide you with tailored assistance and ensure compliance with current laws and regulations.


Visa Business Plans is led by Marco Scanu, a certified coach from the University of Miami with a globally-based practice coaching Fortune 1000 company executives, entrepreneurs, as well as professionals in four different continents. Mr. Scanu advises clients on turnaround strategies and crisis management.

Mr. Scanu received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Cum Laude) from the University of Florida and an MBA in Management from Bocconi University in Milan, Italy. Mr. Scanu was also a Visiting Scholar at Michigan State University under the prestigious H. Humphrey Fellowship (Fulbright program) with a focus on Entrepreneurship, Venture Capital, and high-growth enterprises.

At present, Mr. Scanu is the managing partner and CEO at Visa Business Plans, a Miami-based boutique consulting firm providing attorneys and investors with business planning services in the areas of U.S. and Canadian immigration, SBA loans, and others.


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