K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide to Bringing Your Loved One to the U.S
Planning to bring your fiancé(e) to the U.S.? Learn about the K-1 visa process, eligibility, required documents, and what happens after marriage. Updated for 2025.
💍 What Is the K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa?
The K-1 nonimmigrant visa—commonly known as the Fiancé(e) Visa—allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign-citizen fiancé(e) to the United States for marriage. Once the K-1 visa is approved, the foreign partner can enter the U.S. and must marry the petitioner within 90 days. After the marriage, the couple can apply for the green card through adjustment of status.
✅ Eligibility for the K-1 Visa
To qualify for the K-1 visa, the following conditions must be met:
Petitioner is a U.S. citizen (not a green card holder).
Both parties are legally free to marry.
The couple has met in person at least once in the last two years (unless waived).
The petitioner and fiancé(e) intend to marry within 90 days of entry.
The relationship is genuine and not entered solely for immigration purposes.
📄 Step-by-Step Process for the K-1 Visa
1. File Form I-129F with USCIS
The U.S. citizen files Form I-129F along with:
Proof of citizenship
Proof of in-person meeting
Statements of intent to marry
Evidence of the relationship (photos, messages, travel documents)
Processing time: Approx. 6–10 months
2. USCIS Approves and Sends to NVC
Once approved, the case is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC), then forwarded to the U.S. embassy in the fiancé(e)’s country.
3. Complete DS-160 and Embassy Interview
The foreign fiancé(e) must:
Submit Form DS-160
Schedule a medical exam
Attend an interview with supporting documents:
Birth certificate
Police certificates
Passport
Proof of relationship
Form I-134 (Affidavit of Support)
Tip: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your relationship.
4. Visa Approval and U.S. Entry
If approved, the K-1 visa is issued. Upon entry, the couple must marry within 90 days.
5. Apply for Green Card (Form I-485)
After marriage, the foreign spouse applies for adjustment of status to become a green card holder.
Documents include:
Marriage certificate
Form I-485
Updated Affidavit of Support
I-693 Medical exam (if not already done)
⏱ K-1 Visa Processing Timeline (2025 Estimate)
StageTimeframeI-129F Processing6–10 monthsNVC and Embassy Transfer1–2 monthsVisa Interview + Decision1–2 monthsEntry to U.S.Within 6 monthsMarriage & Green CardWithin 90 days
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not providing enough evidence of a bona fide relationship
Missing documents at the interview
Waiting more than 90 days to marry
Filing for adjustment without marriage proof
👩⚖️ Do You Need a Lawyer?
While the K-1 process is straightforward for some, legal guidance is helpful in complex situations—such as past immigration issues, criminal records, or age differences that raise consular concerns.
An immigration attorney can help you:
Organize and present strong evidence
Prepare for the consular interview
Avoid common delays or denials
📌 Final Thoughts
The K-1 fiancé(e) visa is a powerful way to start your life together in the U.S., but it requires careful planning, legal compliance, and proper documentation. If you’re ready to begin the process, make sure to consult a trusted immigration professional who can guide you every step of the way.
📞 Contact Us
Have questions about the K-1 visa process or need help starting your petition?
We’re here to help.
📱 Phone: (862) 270-8877
📧 Email: info@goxhajlaw.com
Let our experienced immigration team guide you through the process with care, professionalism, and attention to detail.
⚖️ Disclaimer
This blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and our firm. Every immigration case is different and should be evaluated by a qualified immigration attorney based on its own facts.
