Receiving a Request for Evidence (RFE) from USCIS can be stressful, especially when you are counting on timely approval for a visa, green card, or work authorization. While an RFE does not mean your case will be denied, it does indicate that USCIS needs more information before making a decision. Understanding why RFEs happen—and how to prevent them—can save applicants months of delay and unnecessary anxiety.

1. Missing or Incomplete Supporting Documents

One of the most frequent causes of an RFE is incomplete documentation. USCIS expects applicants to provide all required evidence listed in the form instructions.

Examples include:

  • Missing birth certificates or marriage certificates

  • Incomplete financial documents

  • Absent civil documents required for the country of origin

How to avoid it:
Double-check all required documents before filing. Submitting a complete, organized packet reduces scrutiny and helps USCIS process the case faster.

2. Insufficient Proof of a Bona Fide Relationship

Family-based petitions (such as marriage visas) often receive RFEs if USCIS believes the evidence of your relationship is weak.

Common issues:

  • Limited shared financial records

  • Few photos or communication records

  • Lack of proof of joint residence

How to avoid it:
Provide a strong combination of documents: joint bank accounts, leases, insurance policies, travel itineraries, photos with friends and family, and written statements when appropriate.

3. Inadequate Financial Evidence (Form I-864)

The Affidavit of Support must clearly show that the petitioner meets the income requirements. If the numbers are unclear or below the poverty guideline, USCIS will ask for more proof.

Triggers for RFEs:

  • Not submitting recent tax transcripts

  • Missing W-2s, 1099s, or employment letters

  • Income that does not meet the minimum threshold

How to avoid it:
Use updated tax transcripts, include consistent employment evidence, and add a joint sponsor if needed.

4. Gaps or Inconsistencies in the Applicant’s History

Any discrepancy—no matter how small—may cause USCIS to request clarification.

Common inconsistencies:

  • Different dates across forms

  • Previous immigration history not fully disclosed

  • Name variations not explained

How to avoid it:
Review all forms carefully. Ensure dates, names, and addresses match across every document.

5. Questions About Eligibility

If USCIS doubts that an applicant qualifies for the benefit, they will issue an RFE.

Examples:

  • Work experience not clearly documented for H-1B or employment-based cases

  • Evidence missing for specialized knowledge roles

  • Insufficient proof of status for adjustment of status applicants

How to avoid it:
Submit detailed job descriptions, employer letters, experience certificates, and any documentation proving eligibility from the start.

6. Medical Exam Issues (Form I-693)

Medical forms must be complete, sealed, and signed by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon.

RFEs may occur if:

  • The exam was done by a non-approved doctor

  • The form is outdated or missing pages

  • It was submitted too early or too late

How to avoid it:
Only use approved doctors and submit the most recent version of the form.

7. Poorly Organized or Hard-to-Read Filings

USCIS officers review thousands of applications. If a packet is disorganized or missing clear labels, it increases the chance of an RFE.

How to avoid it:
Organize evidence neatly. Add headings, cover letters, and supporting explanations when necessary. Clear formatting helps the officer understand your case quickly.

Conclusion

USCIS issues RFEs primarily when information is missing, unclear, or insufficient. While receiving one is common, it can significantly delay your immigration journey. The good news is that most RFEs are avoidable with thorough preparation, consistent documentation, and careful filing.

Working with an experienced immigration team helps minimize errors and ensures that your case is presented clearly and professionally from the start. If you need assistance responding to an RFE—or preventing one—we are here to help guide you through every step of the process.

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