Immigration Update: New USCIS Policy on RFE and NOID
In this article, we have an update to share with you about the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services’ (USCIS’) new policy on RFEs and NOIDs. We’ll explain what RFEs and NOIDs are, discuss the changes, and highlight what this new policy means for applicants.
We are Ashoori Law, led by U.S. immigration lawyer Michael Ashoori. At our law firm, we work with clients from all over the world, and we regularly post articles and videos to make sure that you are up to date with the latest immigration news. If you have any questions, then we invite you to contact us at Ashoori Law. Feel free to call, text, or WhatsApp message us at +1-818-741-1117 or you may request a free consultation by clicking this link.
What Are RFEs and NOIDs?
When someone applies for benefits through USCIS, the agency can respond in a few different ways. This is true no matter what you are applying for, whether it’s for your green card, a change of status, naturalization, etc., USCIS can respond in multiple ways to your application, including:
- USCIS approves your case
- USCIS might reject or deny your application - This may happen if your application wasn’t filed properly, because it contained an error, because of an error by the decision-maker, or for another reason, which your immigration attorney can help you determine
- USCIS has additional questions - If there are outstanding questions, the agency may send you a Request for Additional Evidence (RFE)
- USCIS intends to deny your application - In the case that USCIS intends to deny your application, they may send you a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID). This means that they are on the verge of denying the case unless the applicant or petitioner can provide additional evidence showing that the applicant is eligible and qualifies for the requested benefit
The Update - RFEs and NOIDs
In 2013, USCIS had a policy that stated when someone applied for benefits, they could not deny the case without sending an RFE first, unless there was no possibility that the petitioner could get their case approved with additional evidence. In 2018, that policy ended, which meant the USCIS could deny a case without an RFE or NOID, even if the applicant might be approved with additional evidence.
On June 9, 2021, USCIS announced that they will be going back to the 2013 policy, mandating that USCIS officers must issue an RFE before denying a case if there is a possibility that additional evidence could help the application get approved.
What Does This Mean for Applicants?
In 2018, when the policy ended of first issuing an RFE before a denial, it resulted in a lot of additional expenses and processing times. These expenses were felt by both the agency and the applicants whose cases were denied and they were never given the opportunity to put forth additional evidence.
The 2021 announcement to go back to issuing RFEs before a denial is great news for applicants. Once an RFE is issued, it gives the applicant a chance to submit additional evidence that may clear up any doubts, concerns, or uncertainties that may have blocked initial approval. This is an effort by USCIS to judge applications for immigration benefits more fairly and efficiently, which cuts down on logistical difficulties and extended timelines that come with having to file motions to reopen cases or refile cases.
Conclusion
In sum, this update from USCIS about RFEs and NOIDs is good news for applicants, allowing them extra chances to correct or supplement their applications to increase the chances of approval in order to secure United States immigration benefits.
My name is Michael Ashoori and I'm a U.S. immigration lawyer and the founder of Ashoori Law. As an immigration lawyer, I help families, professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs get visas, green cards, and citizenship to the United States. If you have any questions, feel free to call or text +1-818-741-1117 or request a free consultation by clicking this link.
Share this post...
thank you for professional support
thanks to their hard work, my E2 VISA was Approved smoothly and without unnecessary delays. i highly recommend Michael Ashoori Law, especially Randall chamberlain, for anyone seeking reliable and efficient immigration services. their attention to detail and commitment to their Clients truly make a difference.read more
I definitely recommend Mr.Ashoori and his group to my family, friends and public and also I want to...say thank you so much Mr. Ashoori for everything you did for us. God bless you.read more
The team at Ashoori Law expertly navigated me through every phase of the visa application, transforming what could have been an overwhelming process into a straightforward one. They took the time to understand my individual situation, carefully answered all my questions, and offered valuable guidance tailored to my circumstances. Their meticulous attention to detail ensured that all documentation was prepared correctly and submitted promptly.
A highlight of my experience was their exceptional communication. They kept me updated throughout the process, making it clear that my case was very important to them. Their availability to address my concerns was incredibly reassuring during the waiting period.
Thanks to their dedication and knowledge, I am now on my way to pursuing my dreams in the USA. I wholeheartedly recommend Ashoori Law to anyone in need of immigration assistance. Their commitment to their clients and profound understanding of immigration law truly distinguishes them.
Once again, thank you, Ashoori Law, for your incredible support! You’ve made a significant impact on my life, and I am deeply grateful.read more
One of the standout aspects of working with Ashoori Law was their proactive approach. They provided us with a detailed checklist and example documents, making sure we had everything we needed for our application. They also thoroughly prepped us for our USCIS interview, ensuring we felt confident and well-prepared. Given the long processing time, they submitted multiple case inquiries on our behalf, truly demonstrating their commitment to advocating for their clients.
Michael’s YouTube videos were another great resource, offering additional insight into the immigration process. Despite the delays, having a knowledgeable, professional, and dedicated team like Ashoori Law made all the difference. They made a complicated process feel manageable, even from across the country.
If you’re looking for an immigration law firm that is efficient, communicative, and truly cares about its clients, I highly recommend Ashoori Law. We are incredibly grateful for their support and could not have asked for a better team to guide us through this journey!read more
Their communication was prompt, clear, and reassuring, making what could have been a stressful process feel smooth and manageable. Thanks to their dedication and in-depth knowledge, we successfully obtained our E-2 visa.
I highly recommend Ashoori Law to anyone seeking reliable and expert immigration assistance!read more
Thank you
Sirageread more
From the...initial consultation to the final approval, the team at Ashoori Law Firm demonstrated unparalleled professionalism, knowledge, and dedication. They took the time to understand my unique situation, provided personalized attention, and crafted a compelling petition that showcased my qualifications.
Their exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to navigate complex immigration laws ensured a seamless and stress-free process. The team kept me informed every step of the way, addressing all my concerns and queries promptly.
I am deeply grateful to Ashoori Law Firm for their outstanding service, expertise, and commitment to excellence. If you're seeking immigration counsel, look no further! Ashoori Law Firm is the gold standard, and I highly recommend them to anyone seeking immigration assistance.read more
Thanks again for...all your hard work.
Andre.read more
Their team made what could have been a stressful and overwhelming experience much easier. Thanks to their expertise and dedication, my visa application was approved smoothly and efficiently. I felt supported throughout the entire journey, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome.
I highly recommend Ansoori Law to anyone in need of immigration services. Their experience and commitment truly make a difference!read more
Ashoori Law Firm's process is incredibly thorough and efficient. They guided me through every step, ensuring I fully understood the requirements and provided the necessary documents. Their team was always prompt in responding to my questions and provided invaluable advice to strengthen my case.
What truly sets Ashoori Law Firm apart is their personalized approach. They took the time to understand my professional background and achievements, crafting a compelling petition that highlighted my qualifications effectively. Their meticulous attention to detail and expertise in immigration law gave me confidence throughout the process.
I am grateful for their hard work and dedication, which ultimately led to the approval of my EB-2 NIW application. If you’re looking for a trustworthy and knowledgeable law firm for your immigration needs, I wholeheartedly recommend Ashoori Law Firm.
Thank you, Ashoori Law Firm, for making my immigration journey smooth and successful!read more
They were fantastic from start to...finish. I had my green card in hand 11 months after filing. Our lawyer was extremely responsive despite what I imagine is a deep client list.
10/10read more
The services the Ashoori team provides are very well-organized, with perfect follow-up emails and detailed reports after each meeting. Their professionalism and attention to detail made the entire process smooth and stress-free.
Thank you so much to the entire Ashoori team for your exceptional service! Keep up the amazing work!read more
Their team provided prompt reviews, clear guidance, and thorough support throughout the entire process, from preparing the I-140 petition (approved within a month) to the consulate interview and final entry into the U.S. Their attention to detail and commitment to meeting crucial deadlines ensured the entire family could immigrate together.
Having previously consulted with another immigration firm that failed to provide a clear strategy, Ashoori Law stood out for their expertise and tailored approach. For anyone navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration, this firm comes highly recommended. They demonstrate a deep understanding of the field and a client-focused approachread more
Their knowledge and expertise in immigration law are unparalleled, and their attention to detail is impressive. They took the time to understand my unique situation and tailored their approach to ensure the best possible outcome.
The communication was seamless, and I was kept informed every step of the way. Their responsiveness to my questions and concerns was prompt and reassuring.
Thanks to Ashori Law, my immigration journey was smooth and successful. I'm grateful for their professionalism, compassion, and dedication to their clients.
If you're looking for a trustworthy and reliable immigration law firm, look no further than Ashori Law!"
Rating Breakdown:
- Knowledge and expertise: 5/5
- Communication: 5/5
- Responsiveness: 5/5
- Professionalism: 5/5
- Overall satisfaction: 5/5read more
The process was smooth and efficient, with clear guidance and excellent communication every step of the way. They answered all my questions with patience and ensured that every detail of my application was strong and well-prepared.
The outcome was positive, and I am thrilled about the future possibilities this has opened for me. For anyone seeking expert assistance with immigration matters, especially EB2 NIW cases, Ashoori Law is the firm to trust. Thank you, Ashoori Law, for making this journey a success!read more
Michael Ashoori, Esq.
President of Ashoori Law
I’m a U.S. immigration lawyer and I help families, professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs get visas, green cards, and citizenship to the United States.
Since starting my law firm, I’ve helped thousands of people from all over the world with their immigration needs. I’m very passionate, hard-working, and committed to my clients.
Got a question? Send me an email.