How to respond to an RFE that questions the relevance of investments to the national interest?

In the EB-2 NIW, an RFE (Request for Evidence) that challenges the relevance of your investments is a request for stronger proof: the adjudicator wants to better understand how your work benefits the U.S. economy and society. It is not a denial, but an opportunity to reinforce your case with clearer evidence.

An effective response typically relies on two moves. The first is gathering concrete proof of impact:

• Evidence of job creation and economic development in specific sectors.
• Partnerships with institutions, technological improvements, and innovation linked to your work.
• Studies, market reports, and expert statements that attest to the relevance of the projects.

The second is building an explicit connection between those investments and the national interest, with a clear narrative showing how your project addresses strategic demands of the country. Keep everything well-documented and grounded in verifiable sources. Since each RFE has its own deadline and scope, it is worth checking the updated guidance from USCIS and reviewing your response with a specialist before submitting.

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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.