VSC Implements New RFE / NOID Timeframes
Posted Aug 10, 2007
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The Vermont Service Center (VSC) has begun implementing the new flexible processing timeframes for Request for Evidence (RFE) and Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID) responses. The new timeframe criteria were reported to MurthyDotCom and MurthyBulletin readers in our June 22, 2007 article, USCIS Clarification on Response Time for RFEs/NOIDs. The earlier, standard 12-week timeframe for RFE response generally is only reserved for requests for evidence coming from an overseas source. Other requests for evidence will now have the shorter timeframes for response, as explained in our earlier article.
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We at the Murthy Law Firm advise those who are filing any immigration petitions or applications that it is always safer to file as complete a case as possible with the USCIS. Of course, with the recent July 2007 Visa Bulletin situation, this may not be possible for many who are filing Adjustment-of-Status cases under the tight timelines of the July Visa Bulletin. Thus, it may be necessary for many such applicants to respond to RFEs under the revised, shorter timeframes. The USCIS's new RFE/NOID timeframe policy is directed, in part, at deterring people from waiting for up to 12 weeks to respond to an RFE just to "buy time." Those who are unable to respond to an RFE/NOID within the shorter timeframes will likely suffer a quick denial.