Many of our clients are already very nervous while awaiting decisions related to their immigration status. The last thing they want to receive in the mail is a Request for Evidence from USCIS, but sometimes this happens. The best advice we can give you is to stay calm, don’t panic, and contact our Orlando immigration attorney for help right away.
What Is A Request For Evidence?
A Request for Evidence (RFE) is simply a formal way for U.S. immigration services to ask for additional proof or documentation in order to make a decision about your case. They are usually in list form and request specific pieces of information. RFEs are generally simple and straightforward. Most often, a piece of information was missing or was unclear and USCIS sends and RFE to ask for clarification or additional details.
5 Tips For Handling An RFE
1. Read the RFE carefully. If you receive an RFE take the time to read through it carefully so you know and understand the request and can provide accurate missing information.
2. Meet deadlines. Always answer RFEs on time. Simply missing a deadline can be cause for denial. USCIS rarely approves requests for additional time, so don’t wait until the last minute and count on an extension coming through.
3. File when completed, not piecemeal. Answer all RFE requests as accurately and completely as possible. USCIS does not generally request additional information after receiving a response to an RFE so if something is inaccurate, missing, or incomplete, you run the risk of the application being denied due to lack of sufficient date or response to the RFE. Many RFEs can be avoided by providing a complete and detailed application package from the very start.
4. Keep it organized. For best results, answer all questions in order and as presented. A table of contents can be helpful. Concise, but thorough, answers will suffice. There’s no need to go overboard and write an essay. Include documentation and exhibits if it will help your case. The easier it is for a person to read through your documentation, the better your chances of approval.
5. Hire an immigration attorney. Having an immigration attorney on your side can make a big difference. Some RFEs contain very technical, legal details that may be lost on you. Others are simply confusing. Sometimes, you may not have the time that is needed to respond to the request appropriately. In any of these situations, an experienced immigration attorney can be invaluable. An immigration attorney can assess the situation and advise you on what kind of documentation you need to provide and how to respond to the Request for Evidence.
Don’t Risk Your Immigration Status By Neglecting An RFE
If at any time you are unsure or confused by a request from USCIS or about any step in your immigration process, contact our Orlando immigration law office for advice and service. We are happy to help walk you through the application process, explain any correspondence you may have received or represent you to USCIS.
If you have received an RFE, contact The Law Offices of Gail Seeram at 1-877-GAIL-LAW or 407-292-7730 to schedule a free consultation.
