“Request for Additional Evidence Was Sent”: what it means
USCIS needs more documents before it can decide. The letter has a firm deadline.
What this status means
An officer reviewed your case and found something missing or unclear. USCIS has mailed a Request for Evidence (RFE) that lists exactly what it wants.
An RFE is common and is not a denial. It is a chance to fill the gap.
What usually happens next
- The letter arrives by mail. The case stays paused until USCIS receives your response or the deadline passes.
What to do now
- Read the whole letter and note the response deadline printed on it. Missing it can lead to a denial.
- Answer every item on the list, and send everything in one response, together with the RFE cover page USCIS asks you to include.
- If the request is complicated or you’re unsure what it’s asking for, talk to an immigration attorney or accredited representative before responding.
Read more
General information about how USCIS status messages are used, not legal advice. The notices USCIS mails you are the official record for your case.
