RFE (Request for Evidence)

USCIS's request for additional documents/evidence before deciding your case. Has a hard deadline (typically 87 days).

An RFE means USCIS isn't ready to decide your case based on what was filed. Common RFEs in H-1B: specialty occupation evidence, employer-employee relationship, beneficiary qualifications, LCA-petition mismatch. RFEs have a hard deadline (usually 87 days). Missing the deadline = denial. Your immigration attorney's response strategy + how complete your initial filing was determine the outcome.

Related terms

I-797 (Notice of Action)
USCIS's official approval/receipt notice. The 'I-797B' is your H-1B approval; you carry it for re-entry.
I-129 (Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker)
Filed by an employer to request, transfer, extend, or amend an H-1B (or other employment nonimmigrant) classification.

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This is an information-only tool, not legal advice. You are responsible for your decisions. When in doubt, consult an immigration attorney.