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What is an RFE (Request for Evidence)?

An RFE is USCIS's request for additional evidence during the review of your H-1B petition. Learn why it is not a denial and how to respond effectively within the stated deadline.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on July 13, 2026
1 min read
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An RFE (Request for Evidence) is a request for additional information or documents issued by USCIS during the review of a petition, something that frequently arises in processes such as the H-1B visa.

In practice, an RFE is issued when USCIS determines it needs more supporting material to confirm your qualifications or the employer’s eligibility. Read it carefully, because the document identifies exactly which gaps need to be addressed.

  • It is not a denial: it is an opportunity to strengthen your case.
  • It must be answered with complete and consistent documentation.
  • It must be addressed within the deadline stated in the notice itself.

Responding well to an RFE is often decisive for the outcome of the process. Because every case has its own specifics, it is worth seeking expert guidance and checking updated instructions from official sources, while being cautious of any promises of guaranteed results.

Learn more about H-1B

Initial validity
3 years
Extension
Up to 6 years total
Annual cap
85,000 visas
Processing
6-12 months
All about H-1B

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.

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What is an RFE (Request for Evidence)?

An RFE is USCIS's request for additional evidence during the review of your H-1B petition. Learn why it is not a denial and how to respond effectively within the stated deadline.

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