info@kasturilaw.com

Call Us Today

630-392-8101 | 630-392-8101
29 South Webster Street, Suite 370 Naperville, IL 60540

Call Us Today

630-392-8101 | 630-392-8101
info@kasturilaw.com

A Request for Evidence (RFE) from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) might seem like a second chance, but in reality, it’s a test. USCIS is signaling that something important is missing or unclear in your application. How you respond can determine whether your case is approved or denied. Unfortunately, many applicants fall into a common trap, submitting a generic or incomplete response that fails to address USCIS concerns fully.

Avoiding this mistake is key to protecting your immigration future. Our Chicago immigration attorney, Shobhana Kasturi, can help. Here’s how.

This Image shows that the Generic Responses Often Lead to Denials

What Is an RFE and Why Is It Issued?

An RFE is not a denial, but a formal notice that your immigration petition lacks required information, documentation, or clarity. USCIS will outline what is missing or needs further explanation and give you a strict deadline to submit the requested materials.

RFEs are commonly issued in adjustment of status, family-based green card, VAWA, U visa, and naturalization cases. Missing forms may trigger them, insufficient evidence of eligibility, inconsistencies, or a lack of proof supporting the relationship or hardship claim.

The Danger of Submitting a Generic Response

Responding to an RFE with vague or template language may seem like a time-saving shortcut, but it can have serious consequences.

A generic response often includes:

  • Repeating previously submitted documents without adding new context.
  • Failing to explain why a document was missing or unclear.
  • Submitting affidavits that are too broad or lack specific details.
  • Using online templates that do not directly address the case’s weaknesses.

When USCIS receives a weak or irrelevant response, the officer reviewing your file may conclude that you do not qualify or that you are not taking the process seriously. That often leads to a swift denial.

What a Strong RFE Response Looks Like

A successful RFE response is tailored, organized, and persuasive.

It should include:

  • A cover letter that outlines precisely what USCIS requested and how you are addressing it.
  • A detailed explanation of why the initial issue occurred.
  • Clearly labeled new documents that directly respond to each item in the RFE.
  • Updated affidavits or supporting evidence with names, dates, and personal knowledge.
  • A brief legal analysis, when applicable, showing how your response meets the eligibility requirements.

Whether your case involves proving a good-faith marriage, a qualifying family relationship, financial support, or hardship, your evidence must be specific and thorough.

Why Legal Guidance Makes a Difference

Responding to an RFE on your own can be stressful and confusing. An experienced immigration attorney can analyze the language of the RFE, identify the exact concerns, and build a customized response that strengthens your case. In many instances, legal support during the RFE stage is what saves a petition from being denied.

Contact Our Illinois Immigration RFE Attorney Today for Help

An RFE is your chance to clarify and strengthen your case — but only if you treat it seriously. Don’t fall into the trap of submitting a generic or recycled response. Your future in the United States deserves more than a template.

At Kasturi Law, our immigration attorney helps clients across Illinois, including in Arlington Heights, Aurora, Champaign, Chicago, Naperville, Schaumburg, and the surrounding cities, prepare persuasive, strategic responses to RFEs that give them the best chance at success. Whether you need to meet in person or schedule a virtual consultation, our flexible 30-minute or 60-minute appointments can be booked directly on our website.

Let us help you respond with clarity, confidence, and care.