3 Common O-1 Visa RFE Triggers and How to Avoid Them

There are few things an O-1 applicant dreads more than receiving a Request for Evidence (RFE) - it was certainly one of my biggest worries when I was twiddling my thumbs, waiting for a response.

RFEs cause delays, add stress, and feel too close to a denial.

The good news? Most RFEs are preventable.

In my experience helping applicants prepare O-1 petitions (and having applied successfully three times myself), I’ve noticed that RFEs usually stem from a few common, correctable issues.

In this article, I’ll break down three of the top triggers and share practical strategies to avoid them.

1. Weak or unclear evidence

Problem:

Even if your accomplishments are impressive, evidence that isn’t clearly presented can fail to convince an adjudicator. USCIS officers review hundreds of petitions and have limited time to interpret each piece of evidence.

How to avoid:

• Provide context for every single item: explain your role, the significance of awards, why publications or projects matter, and how it relates to the criterion.

• Organize your evidence in logical categories (letters, awards, media, publications).

• Use an evidence-tracking spreadsheet to ensure nothing is overlooked.

2. Poorly defined field

Problem:

If your field is too broad or vague, it’s harder for USCIS to understand what makes your achievements extraordinary, and you're going up against a large pool of competitiors. For example, “Software Engineering” is far too general, while “UX Design for AI Accessibility Tools” is specific, measurable, and recognized.

How to avoid:

• Clearly define your area of expertise.

• Ensure all letters, documents, and descriptions use the same field definition.

• Demonstrate your field’s industry significance, showing how your work is evaluated against recognized standards.

3. Inconsistent or vague recommendation letters

Problem:

Recommendation letters that don’t demonstrate why you’re extraordinary or fail to establish the author’s credibility often trigger RFEs. Generic statements like “Rebecca is amazing at her job and always on time” won’t carry weight. Instead, the letters should clearly outline how your specific contributions have made an impact, and on who.

How to avoid:

• Choose people who are recognized experts in your field.

• Provide guidance: have them highlight your achievements, impact, and relevance to your field.

• Make sure letters follow the required format without being generic or sounding like templates: They should establish the author's expertise, explain how they know you and your work, and provide a detailed discussion of your impact.

Most O-1 RFEs are preventable with clear evidence, a defined field, and strong recommendation letters. Spending extra time organizing and contextualizing your petition can make the difference between a smooth approval and unnecessary delays.

Next step: If you want me to review your petition and reduce the risk of RFEs, book a free consultation.