How to prepare an effective response to an RFE in your EB-2 NIW case?

An RFE (Request for Evidence) in an EB-2 NIW case is not a challenge to your processing costs. It typically asks you to strengthen the evidence that your work has merit and national importance — the points that truly support the petition. Treat the request as an opportunity to close gaps, not as a denial.

Read the notice carefully and respond to exactly what it flags, in an organized, point-by-point manner. For each item questioned, provide documents that support the claim and clearly explain their relevance.

• Address each RFE point specifically, with no generic responses.
• Gather new or stronger evidence of results, recognition, and impact.
• Number and label each document to facilitate review.
• Observe the deadline stated in the notice itself.

If a cost is genuinely mentioned, address it transparently, but keep in mind that the core of the evaluation is the merit of your work, not the expense. Because every case is unique, it is worth confirming updated guidance from the official source (USCIS) and, when possible, having your response reviewed by a specialist before submission.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.