Visto n' Visa
Blog
Notícias e artigos
Destinations
Careers
Immigrants

What are the main reasons for issuing an RFE in the EB-2 NIW?

An RFE in EB-2 NIW generally occurs due to lack of clear evidence, inconsistencies in the petition, or documentary issues, allowing the reinforcement of the candidate's national contribution value.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on March 9, 2026
3 min read
Share

The EB-2 NIW visa, aimed at professionals with advanced skills or advanced degrees, offers a valuable opportunity for those who can demonstrate that their activities have a significant benefit for the United States. However, as in any immigration process, the immigration service may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) when there are doubts or a need for further clarification about the documentation presented.

One of the main reasons for issuing an RFE in the context of EB-2 NIW is the insufficiency of evidence to prove that the applicant truly meets the requirements for the National Interest Waiver benefit. For example, there may be doubts regarding the argument that the proposed work has substantial merit and national importance. If the documents proving the professional’s relevant achievements, publications, citations, awards, or impactful projects are not sufficiently robust or conclusive, the responsible officer may request additional documentation to validate these points.

Another common reason concerns clarity and consistency in the presentation of the applicant’s arguments. If the petition fails to clearly demonstrate how the work will contribute to the United States’ strategic interests – whether in the economy, health, technology, or another key sector – the officer may ask for more evidence or a more detailed explanation. This includes the need for additional evidence, such as reference letters, independent evaluations, or records that support the claim that the applicant’s work has an impact beyond the local or sectoral scope.

Moreover, formal errors, discrepancies in documents, or omissions of important information can also trigger an RFE. Keep all forms and arguments aligned with the required criteria, ensuring that every critical point is well-founded and documented. This reinforces the petition’s credibility and facilitates the officer’s evaluation of the case.

It is always essential to strictly follow United States immigration laws and seek information from reliable sources. If you choose to get assistance, be sure to use professionals or specialized companies, avoiding scams or false promises of guaranteed results. In any situation, the integrity and clarity of the documentation are essential for the success of the immigration process.

In summary, an RFE in EB-2 NIW usually occurs when there are doubts about the proof of the national benefits of the applicant’s activity, the quality and consistency of the arguments presented, or the integrity of the documents submitted. These additional requests are an opportunity to strengthen the petition with complementary information and clearly demonstrate the value that the applicant can add to the United States.

Learn more about EB-2 NIW

Category
EB-2 NIW Green Card
Self-petition
Allowed (no sponsor needed)
PERM
Waived
Processing
12-36 months
All about EB-2 NIW
Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.

Victoria's tips

What are the main reasons for issuing an RFE in the EB-2 NIW?

An RFE in EB-2 NIW generally occurs due to lack of clear evidence, inconsistencies in the petition, or documentary issues, allowing the reinforcement of the candidate's national contribution value.

Recommended reading about EB-2 NIW

More content about EB-2 NIW