What are the consequences of an RFE on the L-1?

A RFE (Request for Evidence) on an L-1 petition is a common step in the process and does not mean the petition has been denied. It is the USCIS requesting additional information or documents to confirm that the requirements have been met.

In practice, an RFE has two main consequences. The first is a delay: while you prepare and submit your response, the adjudication is paused. The second is increased scrutiny, as the questions tend to be detailed, covering corporate structure, the relationship between the companies, and evidence of the executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge role.

The most critical point is the deadline. If the response is not complete or does not arrive within the timeframe indicated in the RFE itself, the petition may be denied. For this reason, it is important to carefully gather everything that was requested and respond in a thorough, well-supported manner with consistent documentation.

Viewed from another angle, an RFE is also an opportunity to strengthen the case with more precise evidence. When facing doubts or unclear documentation, the best course of action is to seek guidance from a specialist and follow the official USCIS instructions, without being swayed by promises of quick solutions.

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.