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Call Us Today

630-392-8101 | 630-392-8101
info@kasturilaw.com

Receiving a Request for Evidence (RFE) from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can be an unsettling experience. For many immigrants in Illinois pursuing green cards, naturalization, or other immigration benefits, an RFE raises critical questions: Does receiving an RFE mean my case will be denied? How seriously should I take this notice?

At Kasturi Law, LLC, our experienced Illinois immigration and naturalization lawyer emphasizes that while an RFE does not guarantee denial, it certainly indicates that your case needs immediate and careful attention.

What is a Request for Evidence (RFE)?

A Request for Evidence occurs when USCIS reviews your application and determines it needs additional documentation or information to proceed. RFEs can relate to any immigration filing, including green cards, naturalization petitions, family-based immigration applications, and more. Typically, the RFE outlines precisely what additional evidence is required, giving you a set deadline—usually between 30 to 90 days—to respond.

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Does an RFE Automatically Mean Denial?

An RFE does not automatically mean your case will be denied. It’s essentially USCIS’s way of asking for more clarity or additional proof before making a final decision. The request may be minor—such as needing more explicit copies of documents—or significant, like requiring more substantial evidence of eligibility. How you respond to the RFE plays an essential role in the eventual outcome of your case.

Why Might an RFE Lead to Denial?

An RFE can lead to denial primarily if you fail to respond adequately or on time. Failing to provide the requested documents or information to USCIS can lead to an automatic denial due to insufficient evidence. Additionally, submitting incomplete, inaccurate, or contradictory information may negatively affect your credibility and the overall strength of your case.

Some common reasons an RFE can escalate to denial include:

  • Ignoring or Missing Deadlines: USCIS takes deadlines seriously. A missed or late response is typically viewed negatively and can lead to immediate denial.
  • Inadequate Responses: If your response does not fully address USCIS’s concerns or requests, it can result in denial.
  • Misrepresentation or Errors: Providing incorrect, inconsistent, or misleading information, even unintentionally, can cause USCIS to deny your application.

How to Properly Respond to an RFE

The best approach is to respond promptly, thoroughly, and clearly. Begin by carefully reviewing the RFE to understand precisely what USCIS requests. Gather all necessary documents or additional evidence promptly. Your response should be well-organized, easy to follow, and directly address each request from USCIS.

Working with an experienced Illinois immigration attorney can significantly enhance your chances of successfully addressing the RFE. We understand precisely how to craft compelling, thorough responses tailored to USCIS requirements.

Get Legal Help with Your RFE

If you’ve received an RFE, immediate action is essential. At Kasturi Law, LLC, our Illinois immigration and naturalization attorneys have extensive experience handling complex RFEs. We will guide you step-by-step in preparing an organized and persuasive response to secure a favorable decision from USCIS.

Don’t risk your immigration status or future opportunities by navigating an RFE alone. Contact our immigration law firm in Illinois today to schedule a consultation during an in-person meeting, a phone call, or a Zoom session. You can even schedule a consultation directly using our online calendar, choosing between 30-minute or 60-minute timeframes to ensure your case receives the comprehensive attention it deserves.

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