RFI (Request for Information) is a letter from DOL asking for additional documents or clarifications on the PERM case before issuing a decision. It is not a denial — it is a chance to complete whatever was missing.
Why does DOL issue an RFI?
The most common reasons are: questions about the offered wage versus the prevailing wage, recruitment ads that don't strictly follow the rules, beneficiary qualifications that don't match the job description, or inconsistencies between ETA 9089 and the supporting documentation.
Very large or very small employers, positions with wages above or below what is typical for the region, and unusual SOC codes all see higher RFI rates.
What is the deadline to respond?
DOL typically gives 30 calendar days from receipt of the letter. The deadline is strict — missing it can lead to denial for abandonment.
The employer (or their attorney) is the one who responds. The beneficiary does not respond directly but usually has to supply personal documents (diplomas, employment letters, etc.).
Is getting an RFI bad?
Not necessarily. Many RFI cases end up approved. What truly matters is the quality of the response. With solid supporting documentation and a complete reply, the case continues normally.
What changes: the case leaves the regular queue for a few weeks while the response is reviewed, so total processing time increases.