How to respond to an RFE questioning the relevance of your awards and recognition?

An RFE (Request for Evidence) that questions the relevance of your awards asks you to clearly demonstrate the connection between those recognitions and the merit of your case. In the EB-2 NIW, awards are not a formal requirement: they serve as supporting evidence, which carries more weight when properly contextualized.

Start by carefully reading the RFE to understand exactly what the officer is questioning. Then organize your response so that each award is tied to your work:

• Describe the context of each award: who grants it, the selection process, and its significance in your field.
• Attach evidence of impact, such as letters, publications, press coverage, or expert statements.
• Explain how the recognition reinforces the relevance of your work and the national interest argument.

A well-organized response, with clearly identified sections and a narrative that connects each achievement to your contribution, makes the review easier for USCIS. Avoid overstating the reach of an award; demonstrating its concrete relevance is more persuasive than simply asserting it.

Since each case is evaluated individually, it is worth confirming current guidance from the official source (USCIS) and, if possible, having the response reviewed by a trusted professional before filing.

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Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

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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.