What strategies can strengthen the argument in an RFE response about costs?

When an RFE (Request for Evidence) for an EB-2 NIW asks for clarification on costs, the best strategy is to respond with transparency and organization, clearly showing what each expense covered and why it was necessary within your project or activity.

First and foremost, keep in mind that the amount spent is not a visa criterion. The EB-2 NIW is evaluated based on the merit and national importance of your work, not the size of the investment. The goal of the response is to justify expenses that already appeared in the case, not to demonstrate a minimum spending volume.

Some strategies that strengthen the argument:

• Document each cost with supporting evidence, such as contracts, invoices, and receipts.
• Explain, in a clear cover letter, the purpose of each expense and its connection to the activities in the case.
• When helpful, show that the amounts are consistent with market rates for similar services.

Since each RFE is specific, it is important to follow exactly what was requested, review the updated USCIS guidelines, and, when possible, seek support from a specialist.

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.