How does the RFE work for inconsistent diplomas?

An RFE – Request for Evidence – is a formal request from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for the applicant to provide additional documentation or clarifications regarding information previously submitted in their H-1B visa petition. When the USCIS identifies a diploma with information that appears inconsistent or does not exactly match what is required for the specialty occupation, it may issue this request to confirm that the candidate truly possesses the necessary qualifications.

In the case of an inconsistent diploma, the USCIS may request that the interested party submit supplementary documents, such as a credential evaluation issued by a specialized entity, academic transcripts, or detailed explanations about the academic background, indicating how this education relates to the professional area intended for the H-1B.

The objective is to demonstrate that, despite any apparent differences or inconsistencies, the candidate’s education actually meets the criteria of a “specialty course” required to perform the job.

It is common that, when dealing with diplomas obtained outside the United States, the USCIS recommends an equivalency evaluation to clarify the validity and relevance of the diploma in relation to American standards.

Responding carefully to an RFE is crucial: the applicant usually receives a deadline to submit all the required additional documentation, and fully complying with this request is essential for the continuation of the process.

It is important to gather and organize the documents attentively, as presenting clear and consistent evidence can make a difference in the case analysis.

It is worth emphasizing that following immigration laws and using reliable sources for diploma evaluations is always essential. Seek professionals or companies specialized in academic document analysis and avoid offers that promise guaranteed results or miraculous solutions, as such campaigns can lead to losses or risks for your case.

Maintaining transparency and organizing the documentation thoroughly are the first steps to properly respond to an RFE related to an inconsistent diploma. Doing so based on recognized standards and, if necessary, counting on specialized guidance increases the chances of demonstrating that the candidate truly has the qualification required for the H-1B visa.

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.