Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID): How to Address and Overcome It

Getting a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID) in the mail can be jarring. You open the envelope expecting progress, and instead, you’re told your immigration application might be denied. It’s not quite a denial—but it’s close. Still, it’s also an opportunity, and how you respond can make all the difference. 

At Tourzani & Long, LLC, we’ve worked with individuals and families facing NOIDs across all types of immigration cases. We’ve seen denials overturned because of a strong response—and also seen what happens when deadlines or key details are missed. If you’ve received a NOID, here’s what you need to know and how to respond strategically. 

What Is a NOID?

A Notice of Intent to Deny is a formal letter from USCIS stating that the officer reviewing your case plans to deny your application unless you provide additional evidence or clarification. Unlike a Request for Evidence (RFE), which usually means something’s missing, a NOID means USCIS has reviewed your entire case and found a significant issue. 

The officer isn’t asking for clarification—they’re saying, “Here’s why we think this case should be denied. Prove us wrong.” 

Common Reasons for Receiving a NOID

NOIDs show up in many types of immigration applications, including marriage-based green cards, work visas, naturalization cases, and asylum filings. Some of the more common reasons include: 

• Doubt about the legitimacy of a marriage (especially if interview answers were inconsistent or evidence was weak) 

• Inadequate financial support from a sponsor (issues with Form I-864 or income thresholds) 

• Criminal history or prior immigration violations not fully explained or addressed 

• Inconsistencies in testimony or documentation that raise concerns about credibility 

• Failure to meet eligibility requirements under the category applied for 

Whatever the reason, USCIS is giving you one last chance to fix the problem before issuing a final denial. 

Read the NOID Carefully

The first step is to slow down and read every word of the notice. Highlight the specific concerns USCIS outlines. You need to understand exactly why they intend to deny the case—because that’s what your response needs to directly address. 

Each NOID is different. Some are a page or two long. Others stretch over multiple pages with specific allegations or questions. Don’t guess. Don’t assume. Go line by line and make a checklist of everything that needs to be answered or rebutted. 

Build a Focused, Organized Response

Your response to a NOID should be clear, well-organized, and fully supported. This isn’t the time for filler. You’re not submitting a brand-new case—you’re defending the one already submitted. 

Start with a cover letter that walks through each issue raised in the NOID and explains how your evidence resolves or corrects it. Then attach your supporting documentation in the same order, clearly labeled. 

You might need to include: 

• Additional affidavits (from the applicant, sponsor, or third parties) 

• Corrected or updated forms 

• Photos, bills, joint financial documents (in marriage-based cases) 

• Criminal records and certified court dispositions (if relevant) 

• Letters from employers, doctors, or community leaders 

If there were inconsistencies in past testimony, address them directly. Honest mistakes happen. A clear explanation is often more effective than trying to gloss over the problem. 

Timing Is Critical

Most NOID responses are due within 30 days of the date listed on the notice. That deadline includes mailing time, so realistically, you have less than that to organize everything. 

Missing the deadline will almost always result in a denial. That’s why we tell clients to start preparing their response the same day the NOID arrives. It takes time to gather documents, write a clear explanation, and review everything before submitting. 

When to Get Legal Help

If your NOID involves legal questions, complex eligibility issues, or anything related to criminal history or misrepresentation, don’t try to navigate it alone. These cases often hinge on the precise way you present your facts and respond to government concerns. 

We’ve worked on NOIDs where the issue seemed minor but was actually a legal red flag—and others where the situation looked bad on paper but was easily explained with the right documents and context. 

We’re Here to Help You Push Back

A NOID is not a denial—it’s a warning and an opening. At Tourzani & Long, LLC, we treat every NOID like the high-stakes moment it is. Whether you’re dealing with a marriage-based petition, employment case, or humanitarian application, we’ll review the notice, help you understand exactly what’s at stake, and work with you to build the strongest response possible. 

We serve individuals and families across a wide range of immigration matters and welcome inquiries from all backgrounds. If you’ve received a NOID and aren’t sure how to respond, visit tourzanilaw.com to schedule a consultation. You don’t have to face it alone.