What Is a Request for Evidence (RFE)?

A Request for Evidence (RFE) is a notice from USCIS asking for additional documentation or clarification to support a pending application. In the context of immigration medical exams, an RFE related to Form I-693 typically means that USCIS found an error, omission, or deficiency in the completed form.

Common reasons for Form I-693 RFEs include missing signatures, incorrect form edition, incomplete vaccination records, missing lab results, and documentation errors.

What Is an RFE Rate?

An RFE rate is the percentage of a civil surgeon's completed Form I-693 submissions that result in a USCIS Request for Evidence. For example, if a civil surgeon completes 100 forms and 5 result in RFEs, the RFE rate is 5%.

A low RFE rate indicates that the civil surgeon consistently completes Form I-693 accurately and in compliance with USCIS requirements. A high RFE rate indicates recurring errors that affect applicants' cases.

What Is a Good RFE Rate?

There is no official USCIS benchmark for civil surgeon RFE rates. However, experienced civil surgeons who specialize in immigration medical exams typically have RFE rates below 2%. Rates above 5% suggest systemic issues with form completion accuracy.

When asking a civil surgeon about their RFE rate, a confident, specific answer is a positive sign. Vague responses or an inability to answer the question may indicate that the provider does not track this metric — which itself is a concern.

The Cost of an RFE

An RFE related to Form I-693 can delay your immigration case by weeks or months. In some cases, it may require a new medical examination, additional lab tests, or additional vaccines — all at your expense.

The cost of an RFE goes beyond the financial. It adds stress, uncertainty, and delay to an already complex immigration process. Choosing a civil surgeon with a low RFE rate is one of the most effective ways to protect your case.

How to Ask About RFE Rate

When evaluating a civil surgeon, ask directly: "What percentage of your completed Form I-693 submissions result in a USCIS Request for Evidence?" Follow up by asking what steps the clinic takes to prevent RFEs and how they handle cases where an RFE is received.