What does an “ad hoc” RFE mean in the EB-2 NIW process?

In the EB-2 NIW process, an RFE (Request for Evidence) is the notice in which USCIS requests additional evidence before making a decision on the petition. When it is described as “ad hoc”, it means the request is not a standardized template: the officer crafted a tailored request focused on the specific questions that arose while reviewing your case.

In practice, an “ad hoc” RFE signals that the review was individualized. Rather than asking for a generic document checklist, the officer points to concrete gaps that must be addressed for the petition to move forward. These typically touch on points such as:

• Clarifying or providing stronger evidence of a particular qualification.
• Providing context for a specific professional experience.
• More directly demonstrating the impact of your work on the national interest.

The key takeaway is that an “ad hoc” RFE is not a denial: it is an opportunity to close exactly the gaps the officer identified. Respond to each item raised with specific, coherent evidence, within the deadline stated in the notice. Because each request reflects your individual case, it is worth consulting the USCIS guidelines and considering the support of a specialist to prepare a precise response.

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.