A request for evidence (RFE) is a form submitted by USCIS requesting additional documentation from visa applicants. It may mean updating or clarifying information, and has a deadline for submission. Failure to comply may result in visa denial. USCIS may send RFEs for various visa types, and requires documents to determine eligibility. Translation of foreign language documents is necessary, and RFEs may request documents related to employment history or education. The visa process is complex and lengthy, and applicants can apply for a travel document for short trips abroad.
A request for evidence (RFE) refers to a form submitted by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requesting additional documentation from an applicant applying for a visa. It could mean that previously submitted information needs to be updated, documents are missing from the original application, or the facts need to be clarified. A request for evidence typically sets a time limit for filing the documents required by the government.
When a foreigner receives a request for evidence on an immigration application, action should be taken. If the documentation is not returned to the authorities before the deadline, the visa could be denied. A request for evidence is different from a rejection notice, which means that the applicant is not eligible for the type of visa he or she is applying for.
USCIS may send a request for evidence on an application for a new visa or an application seeking to extend a person’s previously approved stay in the United States. It can also be applied to visas that allow you to work in the United States, known as an Employment Green Card. Those applying to become permanent residents or citizens may also receive a probation notice request requesting additional documentation.
Obtaining a US visa is typically a long and complex process. Visas come in a wide range of categories which depend on the applicant’s purpose for wanting to live in the country. They are available for foreigners who want to work or get married, and for the applicant’s spouses and dependents.
In any case, USCIS requires documents to determine if a visa should be granted. These could include financial records, birth and marriage records, proof of employment, and residency papers. If the evidence is not sufficient to meet the guidelines, the agency may request additional necessary documents from the immigration officer. The request usually specifies where the information is missing.
An applicant is allowed to send photocopies of documents to prove that he is eligible for a visa. If the documents are in a foreign language, they must be translated into English by a professional translator. USCIS requires a translator to be certified in English, making online translations usually unacceptable.
Typical records needing translation include current and previous passports. Birth certificates issued in another country also require translation, along with marriage, divorce and death certificates when applying for a family visa. Requesting evidence may require translations of dependents’ birth certificates and passports showing the relationship between the dependents and the applicant.
An RFE applying for a work visa may request documents relating to the applicant’s previous employment history. A letter from a former employer outside the United States outlining job duties and dates of employment is a required document an immigration officer may need. Tax records are also common documents sought through an RFE, along with educational evidence showing that the applicant is qualified to work in a specific profession.
Foreigners usually want to enter the United States to work to improve their living conditions or for religious or political asylum. Once an application has been filed with USCIS, immigration officials prefer that the alien remain in the United States until the process is complete, which can take more than a year in some cases. If travel is critical during the review process, the applicant can apply for a travel document that allows for short trips abroad.
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