What documents should be included in a response to an RFE requesting evidence for EB-2 NIW?

In the EB-2 NIW, there is one key point to understand before building your response: the USCIS does not evaluate whether your costs were reasonable or consistent with market rates. The amount spent is not a criterion of the visa, so the focus of an RFE (Request for Evidence) is typically not to justify expenses, but rather to demonstrate the merit and national importance of your work.

The first step is to carefully read what the request is actually asking for and respond precisely to that point, without losing focus by trying to defend expenditures. Organize your documentation clearly and logically to make the officer’s review as straightforward as possible.

• Include only the documents that directly address what the RFE requested, presented in an organized manner.
• Add a clear explanation that connects each document to the specific point being questioned.
• When appropriate, include expert opinions or letters from specialists that reinforce the relevance of your work.

Documents in a language other than English must be accompanied by a translation. Since each case is evaluated individually, it is advisable to check the updated guidelines from USCIS and, when possible, seek professional support to structure your response, while avoiding any promises of guaranteed outcomes.

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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.