Getting that dreaded Request for Evidence (RFE) from USCIS can feel like your heart just dropped into your stomach. You’ve waited months for a response to your immigration petition, only to receive a notice asking for additional documentation. The good news is that an RFE isn’t a denial – it’s simply USCIS giving you another chance to strengthen your case.
The key to successfully responding to an RFE lies in crafting a compelling cover letter that clearly addresses each concern raised by the immigration officer. Your cover letter serves as the roadmap that guides the adjudicator through your evidence, explaining how each document directly responds to their specific requests. A well-written cover letter can make the difference between approval and another round of delays.
Sample Cover Letters for USCIS RFE
These ten carefully crafted examples demonstrate different approaches to addressing common RFE scenarios. Each letter shows you how to structure your response professionally while maintaining clarity and persuasive power.
1. I-130 Family-Based Petition RFE Response
[Insert recipient’s address]
[Sender’s name and title]
Date: [Current Date]
Subject: Response to Request for Evidence – Case Number MSC2024123456
Dear Immigration Officer,
I am writing to respond to your Request for Evidence dated [Date] regarding my Form I-130 petition for my spouse, [Spouse’s Name]. Your request specifically asked for additional evidence to establish the bona fide nature of our marriage.
Please find enclosed the following documents that demonstrate the genuine nature of our marital relationship:
Joint Financial Documents: I have included our joint bank statements covering the past two years, showing regular deposits from both parties and shared expenses. Additionally, you will find our joint tax returns for 2023 and 2024, filed as married filing jointly.
Shared Living Arrangements: The lease agreement for our current residence shows both our names as tenants since [Date]. Our utility bills consistently show both names and demonstrate continuous cohabitation.
Social Evidence: The photographs submitted span our entire relationship, from our engagement party attended by family and friends to recent holiday celebrations. Wedding reception photos show over 100 guests who can attest to our genuine relationship.
Communication Records: Text message logs and email correspondence demonstrate daily communication and shared decision-making about household matters, future plans, and family concerns.
Each document directly addresses your concerns about establishing marital legitimacy. The evidence clearly shows we share financial responsibilities, maintain a common household, and have integrated our lives completely.
I respectfully request favorable consideration of this petition. Should you require any clarification or additional information, please contact me at [Phone Number].
Sincerely,
[Your signature]
[Your printed name]
Petitioner
2. I-485 Adjustment of Status Medical Examination RFE
[Recipient’s address placeholder]
[Insert sender’s name and designation]
Date: [Current Date]
Re: Response to Request for Evidence – Receipt Number MSC2024789012
To Whom It May Concern:
Thank you for your letter dated [Date] requesting additional medical evidence for my Form I-485 Application to Adjust Status. I understand your concern regarding the completeness of my medical examination.
The original medical examination was conducted by Dr. [Name], a USCIS-designated civil surgeon, on [Date]. However, I recognize that certain vaccinations were not current at the time of the initial examination.
I have now completed all required vaccinations and obtained an updated Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record (Form I-693) from the same civil surgeon. The sealed envelope containing this updated medical report is enclosed with this response.
The updated I-693 includes: – Complete vaccination record showing all required immunizations – Updated tuberculosis screening results – Recent physical examination findings – Civil surgeon’s certification that I meet all medical requirements for adjustment of status
Dr. [Name] has confirmed that all medical requirements have been satisfied and I pose no public health concerns. The examination was conducted according to current CDC guidelines and USCIS technical instructions.
I appreciate your thorough review of my case and look forward to the completion of my adjustment of status application.
Respectfully submitted,
[Signature line]
[Your full name]
Applicant
3. I-140 Employment-Based Petition Ability to Pay RFE
[Insert complete recipient address]
[Sender identification and role]
Date: [Current Date]
Subject: RFE Response – Form I-140 Petition – Receipt Number EAC2024456789
Dear USCIS Officer,
This letter responds to your Request for Evidence dated [Date] concerning our company’s ability to pay the proffered wage for beneficiary [Employee’s Name]. We appreciate the opportunity to provide additional documentation.
Our company, [Company Name], firmly established our ability to pay through multiple financial indicators. The evidence demonstrates consistent profitability and strong financial position.
Annual Tax Returns Analysis: Our corporate tax returns for 2022, 2023, and 2024 show net income exceeding the proffered wage in each year. Specifically, our net income was $[Amount] in 2022, $[Amount] in 2023, and $[Amount] in 2024. The proffered wage of $[Amount] represents less than [Percentage] of our annual net income.
Current Assets and Working Capital: Our audited financial statements reveal current assets of $[Amount] and working capital of $[Amount] as of [Date]. This substantial working capital easily covers the proffered wage multiple times over.
Employee Compensation History: We have consistently paid [Employee’s Name] wages meeting or exceeding the proffered wage since [Date]. Enclosed W-2 forms and payroll records confirm this payment history.
Business Growth Trajectory: Our revenue has grown [Percentage] over the past three years, from $[Amount] in 2022 to $[Amount] in 2024. This growth pattern indicates strong business fundamentals and continued ability to meet payroll obligations.
The documentation clearly establishes our company’s financial capacity to pay the proffered wage both now and in the future. We respectfully request approval of this petition.
Best regards,
[Signature]
[Name and Title]
[Company Name]
4. I-751 Joint Petition to Remove Conditions Comprehensive Response
[Recipient address information]
[Your name and petitioner status]
Date: [Current Date]
RE: Request for Evidence Response – Form I-751 – Receipt Number MSC2024345678
Dear Immigration Officer,
We are responding to your RFE dated [Date] requesting additional evidence of the continuing marital relationship between [Your Name] and [Spouse’s Name]. We understand your need for comprehensive documentation and have prepared extensive evidence.
Our marriage remains strong and genuine, as demonstrated through the following categories of evidence:
Financial Integration: Our joint financial records show complete integration of our economic lives. Joint bank account statements reveal regular deposits from both spouses and shared expenses for household needs, children’s education, and family activities. Our mortgage is held jointly, and we file taxes together, claiming dependency exemptions for our children.
Residential Evidence: We have maintained the same family residence since [Date]. The mortgage documents, homeowner’s insurance policy, and property tax assessments all list both names. Utility bills consistently show both spouses as account holders.
Parental Responsibilities: Birth certificates for our children [Names] show both parents. Medical insurance covers the entire family under one policy. School records list both parents as emergency contacts and participants in parent-teacher conferences.
Social Integration: Family photographs document holidays, birthdays, vacations, and everyday activities over the past two years. Affidavits from friends and family members attest to our continuing relationship and shared life.
Legal Documents: Updated wills name each other as beneficiaries and executors. Life insurance policies list spouses as primary beneficiaries. Power of attorney documents demonstrate trust and legal integration.
The evidence package contains over 200 pages of documentation spanning our entire marriage. Each document reinforces the others to paint a complete picture of our genuine, continuing marital relationship.
We appreciate your careful consideration and request removal of the conditional status.
Sincerely,
[Joint signatures]
[Both names printed]
Joint Petitioners
5. I-129 H-1B Specialty Occupation RFE Response
[Recipient address placeholder]
[Insert sender name and company position]
Date: [Current Date]
Subject: RFE Response – Form I-129 Nonimmigrant Worker Petition – Receipt Number EAC2024567890
Greetings,
Your Request for Evidence dated [Date] questioned whether the position of Senior Software Developer qualifies as a specialty occupation and whether our beneficiary possesses the required qualifications. We provide comprehensive evidence to address these concerns.
Specialty Occupation Requirements: The Senior Software Developer position inherently requires specialized knowledge typically acquired through a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or related field. Our detailed job description outlines complex responsibilities including system architecture design, database optimization, and advanced programming in multiple languages.
Industry Standards: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, software developer positions consistently require bachelor’s degree education. Our industry research shows that 95% of similar positions at comparable companies require degree-level education.
Company-Specific Requirements: Our company’s hiring practices demonstrate the specialty nature of this position. All previous employees in similar roles possessed bachelor’s or advanced degrees. The complexity of our proprietary software systems requires advanced technical knowledge beyond what could be acquired through general experience alone.
Beneficiary Qualifications: [Beneficiary’s Name] holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from [University Name], an accredited institution. The degree evaluation confirms equivalency to a U.S. bachelor’s degree. Additionally, the beneficiary possesses five years of progressive experience in software development.
Supporting Documentation: We have included the official job description, organizational chart showing the position’s level within our company, degree evaluation, university transcripts, and letters from previous employers confirming relevant work experience.
The evidence conclusively demonstrates both the specialty occupation nature of the position and the beneficiary’s qualifications to perform the required duties.
Thank you for your consideration,
[Signature]
[Name and Title]
Petitioning Company
6. I-131 Travel Document Urgent Humanitarian Reasons
[Complete recipient address]
[Sender full name and applicant status]
Date: [Current Date]
Re: Request for Evidence Response – Form I-131 Application for Travel Document – Receipt Number MSC2024678901
Dear USCIS Officer,
I am responding to your RFE dated [Date] requesting additional documentation to support my request for expedited processing of Form I-131 based on urgent humanitarian circumstances.
My elderly father, [Father’s Name], age 78, suffered a severe stroke on [Date] and remains in critical condition at [Hospital Name] in [Country]. Medical records from the attending physician, Dr. [Name], indicate his condition is deteriorating rapidly.
Family Circumstances: I am my father’s only child living outside [Country]. My mother passed away two years ago, leaving him without immediate family support. My siblings living in [Country] have requested my immediate presence to help with medical decisions and end-of-life care.
Medical Documentation: Enclosed medical records from [Hospital Name] detail my father’s current condition, prognosis, and the attending physician’s recommendation for family presence. The doctor’s letter specifically states that my father’s condition is critical and time-sensitive.
Emergency Nature: Commercial flights to [Country] are limited, and I need to travel within the next two weeks to be present during this critical period. My pending I-485 application prevents travel without an advance parole document.
Supporting Evidence: Hospital records, physician’s letter, death certificate of my mother, family photographs, and airline ticket quotes demonstrate the urgent and genuine nature of this request.
The humanitarian circumstances clearly justify expedited processing. My father’s critical condition and my role as the only available family member create an emergency situation requiring immediate travel authorization.
I respectfully request expedited approval of my travel document application.
Urgently submitted,
[Signature]
[Your printed name]
Applicant
7. I-90 Green Card Replacement Evidence of Lawful Status
[Insert recipient’s complete address]
[Applicant name and status]
Date: [Current Date]
Subject: Response to Request for Evidence – Form I-90 – Receipt Number MSC2024789123
Dear USCIS,
Your Request for Evidence dated [Date] asked for additional proof of my lawful permanent resident status to support my Form I-90 application for green card replacement. I provide comprehensive documentation to establish my continued LPR status.
Original Green Card Information: I was granted lawful permanent resident status on [Date] with green card number [Number]. The card was damaged beyond use in a house fire on [Date], necessitating this replacement application.
Continuous Residence Evidence: My tax returns for the past five years show consistent U.S. residence and income reporting. Social Security earnings statements demonstrate continuous employment in the United States since obtaining permanent residence.
Travel Records: Enclosed I-94 records and passport stamps document all international travel since becoming a permanent resident. Each trip was temporary, lasting less than six months, with clear intent to maintain U.S. residence.
Residential Documentation: Lease agreements, utility bills, voter registration, and driver’s license renewals establish continuous physical presence in the United States. Bank statements show ongoing financial ties and regular domestic transactions.
Employment History: W-2 forms and employment letters confirm continuous work authorization and employment in the United States. My employer, [Company Name], confirms my ongoing employment since [Date].
Fire Department Report: Official documentation from [Fire Department] confirms the house fire that destroyed my green card along with other important documents. Police report number [Number] provides additional verification.
The evidence package comprehensively demonstrates my maintained lawful permanent resident status and legitimate need for card replacement. I have met all residence requirements and maintained strong ties to the United States.
Please approve my replacement application,
[Signature]
[Your name]
Lawful Permanent Resident
8. I-526E Immigrant Investor Regional Center RFE
[Recipient address details]
[Investor name and representative capacity]
Date: [Current Date]
RE: Request for Evidence Response – Form I-526E – Receipt Number IPE2024123789
Distinguished Officer,
This comprehensive response addresses your RFE dated [Date] concerning the source of investment funds and job creation projections for my EB-5 Regional Center investment.
Source of Funds Documentation: My investment capital of $800,000 derives from legitimate business operations spanning fifteen years. Enclosed audited financial statements from my company, [Company Name], show consistent profitability and accumulated retained earnings exceeding the investment amount.
Business Operations Verification: Tax returns for [Company Name] covering the past seven years demonstrate annual net income ranging from $[Amount] to $[Amount]. Bank statements show the systematic transfer of business profits to personal accounts, creating the investment fund pool.
Personal Tax Compliance: My individual tax returns filed in [Country] for the past seven years show reported business income and paid taxes on all earnings. Tax clearance certificates from [Country] revenue authorities confirm full compliance with tax obligations.
Fund Transfer Documentation: Wire transfer records detail the movement of funds from my [Country] bank account to the Regional Center escrow account. Bank verification letters confirm the legitimacy of the source account and my ownership of the funds.
Regional Center Job Creation: The economic impact study prepared by [Economist Name] projects 25 direct and indirect jobs per $800,000 investment based on RIMS II economic multipliers. The Regional Center’s track record shows successful job creation in previous projects.
Project Viability: Business plan for the [Project Name] demonstrates market demand, experienced management team, and realistic financial projections. Letters of intent from anchor tenants provide evidence of commercial viability.
All documentation includes certified English translations where required. The evidence clearly establishes both the lawful source of my investment funds and the job creation potential of the Regional Center project.
Respectfully yours,
[Signature]
[Your name]
EB-5 Investor
9. I-589 Asylum Application Country Conditions Evidence
[Complete recipient address information]
[Applicant name and asylum seeker designation]
Date: [Current Date]
Subject: RFE Response – Form I-589 Application for Asylum – Receipt Number [Number]
Honorable Immigration Judge,
I respectfully respond to your Request for Evidence dated [Date] seeking additional documentation regarding country conditions in [Country] and evidence supporting my asylum claim based on political persecution.
Personal Persecution Evidence: The threats against me began after I wrote articles criticizing the government’s human rights violations. Enclosed copies of my published articles in [Newspaper Name] show the political content that triggered persecution. Police reports document three separate incidents where government officials threatened me directly.
Country Conditions Documentation: Current State Department Country Reports confirm the deteriorating human rights situation in [Country]. Reports from Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International document systematic persecution of journalists and political dissidents.
Medical Evidence: Medical records from [Hospital Name] document injuries sustained during the attack on [Date]. Photographs show the extent of physical harm inflicted by government agents. Psychological evaluation by Dr. [Name] confirms trauma consistent with persecution.
Witness Statements: Affidavits from colleagues at [Newspaper Name] verify the political nature of my work and the threats received. Family members provide sworn statements describing harassment they faced after my departure.
Recent Developments: News articles from [Date] report continued persecution of journalists in [Country]. The murder of my colleague, [Name], on [Date] demonstrates the ongoing danger I would face if returned.
Expert Opinion: Professor [Name] from [University] provides expert analysis of the political situation in [Country] and confirms that journalists face systematic persecution for criticizing the government.
The evidence clearly establishes both my individual persecution and the general country conditions that make return impossible. I respectfully request protection under U.S. asylum law.
Seeking protection,
[Signature]
[Your name]
Asylum Applicant
10. I-864 Affidavit of Support Financial Evidence RFE
[Recipient’s address information]
[Sponsor name and relationship to beneficiary]
Date: [Current Date]
Re: Request for Evidence – Form I-864 Affidavit of Support – Case Number [Number]
Dear USCIS Officer,
Your RFE dated [Date] requested additional evidence of my financial ability to support my spouse, [Spouse’s Name], as required under Form I-864. I am pleased to provide comprehensive financial documentation demonstrating income well above the poverty guidelines.
Current Income Verification: My 2024 tax return shows adjusted gross income of $[Amount], which exceeds 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines by $[Amount]. This income comes from my full-time employment at [Company Name] where I have worked for eight years.
Employment Stability: My employer, [Company Name], has provided a letter confirming my current salary of $[Amount] annually and my permanent, full-time employment status. The letter also confirms my excellent performance record and job security.
Asset Documentation: In addition to current income, I possess significant assets including $[Amount] in savings accounts, $[Amount] in retirement accounts, and home equity of approximately $[Amount]. Bank statements show consistent saving patterns and financial stability.
Tax Compliance History: IRS tax transcripts for the past three years demonstrate consistent income reporting and tax compliance. My income has steadily increased from $[Amount] in 2022 to $[Amount] in 2024.
Household Size Considerations: Our household consists of myself and my spouse, totaling two people. The poverty guideline for a household of two is $[Amount], and my income of $[Amount] represents [Percentage]% of the guideline requirement.
Financial Projections: Based on my employment contract and recent promotion to [Position], my income will increase to $[Amount] in 2025. This continued income growth ensures long-term financial stability for supporting my spouse.
The documentation clearly demonstrates my ability to financially support my spouse without reliance on public benefits. I meet and exceed all income requirements for the Affidavit of Support.
Thank you for your consideration,
[Signature]
[Your printed name]
U.S. Citizen Sponsor
Conclusion
Responding to a USCIS Request for Evidence doesn’t have to be overwhelming when you approach it systematically. Each of these sample letters demonstrates the key principles of effective RFE responses – direct addressing of concerns, comprehensive evidence presentation, and professional communication that guides the adjudicating officer through your case.
Remember that your cover letter serves as the bridge between USCIS’s questions and your evidence. Take time to read the RFE carefully, organize your response methodically, and write with confidence about why your case merits approval. The examples above show you exactly how to structure your thoughts and present your strongest arguments.
Your immigration journey may have hit this temporary bump, but with a well-crafted response, you’re one step closer to achieving your American dream. Use these templates as starting points, but always customize them to reflect your unique circumstances and the specific evidence you’re providing. Success lies in the details, and your careful attention to addressing every concern will make all the difference in your case outcome.