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Call Us Today

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

A Request for Evidence, or RFE, is one of the most common hurdles in the immigration process. While an RFE is not a denial, it signals that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) needs additional proof before it can approve the case. In 2026, RFEs are expected to become even more detailed as USCIS focuses on fraud prevention, document accuracy, and applicant credibility.

The challenge for many applicants is not receiving an RFE; it is responding to it correctly. Small mistakes can lead to delays, new RFEs, or even denials. Understanding where applicants often go wrong allows you to avoid preventable issues and submit a stronger, more complete response.

At Kasturi Law, our Chicago immigration attorney helps individuals and families across Illinois prepare effective RFE responses that clearly address the officer’s concerns.

Denials, and How to Prevent Them in 2026

1. Submitting Only Some of the Requested Evidence

One of the most frequent RFE mistakes is providing partial evidence. USCIS expects the applicant to respond to every item listed. If even one requirement is overlooked, the officer may conclude that eligibility has not been proven.

Applicants often make this mistake because:

  • They misunderstand what USCIS is asking for.
  • They believe previous evidence was “good enough.”
  • They assume similar documents are interchangeable.

We review the RFE line by line, explain what each request truly requires, and ensure no item is missed.

2. Re-submitting the Same Evidence USCIS Already Rejected

When USCIS asks for clarification, simply sending the same documents again — without additional explanation — rarely works. Officers expect new, stronger, or clearer evidence that directly addresses the problem.

This mistake often happens when:

  • Applicants assume the officer overlooked the original documents.
  • The initial submission was incomplete or unclear.
  • Context was missing and needs to be explained.

We help clients gather improved evidence and prepare explanations that clarify why the new submission resolves the concern.

3. Ignoring Inconsistencies the Officer Pointed Out

Many RFEs highlight contradictions in dates, addresses, employment history, prior petitions, or statements. If the applicant does not address these discrepancies directly, USCIS may view the case as unreliable.

Common examples include:

  • Different marriage dates across forms.
  • Conflicting travel history.
  • Previous filings that do not match current statements.

We help applicants prepare clear, honest explanations that resolve inconsistencies and restore credibility.

4. Using Uncertified Translations or Poor-Quality Scans

Officers will not accept documents they cannot read or verify.

RFEs frequently arise because the original submission included:

  • Blurry or cropped scans.
  • Missing pages.
  • Translations without proper certification.
  • Documents that appear altered or incomplete.

We ensure applicants submit clean, complete, correctly translated documents that meet strict USCIS standards.

5. Submitting Evidence Without Organizing or Labeling It

When USCIS officers receive a disorganized response, critical information can be missed. Poor structure makes it harder for the officer to see how the applicant has met the required elements.

Common issues include:

  • No cover letter or summary.
  • Evidence sent in random order.
  • No explanation of how documents support eligibility.

We prepare structured, indexed responses that guide the officer through each requirement, making it easier for them to approve the case.

6. Missing the Deadline or Cutting It Too Close

USCIS RFE deadlines are strict. If evidence arrives late — even by one day — the case is automatically denied. Many applicants make timing mistakes because they underestimate how long it takes to gather documents or draft adequate explanations.

We track deadlines carefully, prioritize time-sensitive items, and ensure everything is submitted before the cutoff.

7. Failing to Provide a Legal Explanation When Facts Alone Are Not Enough

Some RFEs involve legal interpretation, not just missing documents. When USCIS misapplies a rule or overlooks an exception, the applicant must present a legal argument, not simply provide more papers.

Examples include:

  • Misunderstanding the “bona fide marriage” standard.
  • Incorrect assumptions about unlawful presence or admissibility.
  • Financial questions related to the Affidavit of Support.

We prepare legal arguments supported by statutes, regulations, and policy guidance to show clearly why the applicant qualifies.

How Our Illinois Immigration Attorney Helps Prevent RFE-Related Denials

Responding to an RFE is not just about gathering documents; it is about understanding precisely what USCIS is concerned about and resolving those issues with precision.

At Kasturi Law, we:

  • Interpret the RFE to identify the actual problem.
  • Gather complete, credible, and corrected evidence.
  • Prepare explanations that eliminate doubt.
  • Organize submissions so officers can review them efficiently.
  • Submit responses that meet all USCIS requirements and deadlines.

When handled correctly, RFEs are an opportunity to strengthen your case, not a step toward denial.

Speak With Kasturi Law About Your RFE Before It’s Too Late

If you received an RFE or want help preventing one, our Chicago immigration attorney is here to guide you. We help applicants across Illinois prepare strong filings, clear up USCIS concerns, and move their cases forward with confidence.

Call Kasturi Law at 630-626-8343, schedule a 30-minute or 60-minute consultation, or contact us online to meet in person, over the phone, or via Zoom. We proudly serve clients throughout Illinois, including Arlington Heights, Aurora, Champaign, Naperville, Schaumburg, and surrounding cities.