K-1 Fiancé Visa
Bring your fiancé to the United States to marry and build your life together. I guide couples through every step of the K-1 visa process, from petition to green card.
Eligibility
K-1 Visa Requirements
Both Parties Must Be Free to Marry
Both the U.S. citizen petitioner and the foreign national fiancé must be legally free to marry. Any prior marriages must be legally terminated.
Met in Person Within 2 Years
You must have met your fiancé in person at least once within the past two years. Limited exceptions exist for certain cultural or hardship situations.
Intent to Marry Within 90 Days
Both parties must intend to marry within 90 days of the fiancé entering the United States on the K-1 visa.
U.S. Citizen Petitioner
Only U.S. citizens can petition for a K-1 fiancé visa. Lawful permanent residents cannot file for a fiancé.
Benefits of the K-1 Visa
- Bring your fiancé to the U.S. faster than spouse visa
- Marry in the United States
- Fiancé can apply for work authorization
- Children under 21 can accompany on K-2 visa
- Path to green card after marriage
- Fiancé can travel with single-entry visa
The Process
K-1 Visa Timeline
Understanding each stage helps you prepare and reduces delays. I handle every detail to keep your case moving forward.
File Form I-129F
The U.S. citizen files the Petition for Alien Fiancé with USCIS, including proof of relationship and meeting.
USCIS Processing
USCIS reviews and approves the petition, then sends it to the National Visa Center (NVC).
NVC & Embassy
The case is forwarded to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your fiancé's country for visa processing.
Consular Interview
Your fiancé attends an interview at the embassy. We provide thorough interview preparation.
Travel & Marriage
Upon approval, your fiancé enters the U.S. and you must marry within 90 days.
Adjustment of Status
After marriage, your spouse files to adjust status to lawful permanent resident (green card).
Interview Preparation
Consular Interview Coaching
The consular interview is a critical step. I prepare couples with mock interviews, document organization, and guidance on what to expect. My clients enter their interviews confident and well-prepared.
Document Review
Complete review and organization of all required documents for your embassy appointment.
Mock Interviews
Practice sessions covering common questions and potential areas of concern specific to your case.
Ongoing Support
Available to address any issues that arise during embassy processing or upon entry to the U.S.
Common Questions
K-1 Visa FAQs
How long does the K-1 visa process take?
The K-1 visa process typically takes 12-18 months from filing to visa issuance. USCIS processing of the I-129F petition takes 6-10 months, followed by embassy processing which varies by location.
What happens after we get married within 90 days?
After marrying within 90 days, your spouse must file Form I-485 to adjust status to permanent resident. They can also apply for work authorization (EAD) and advance parole while the green card is pending.
Can my fiancé work on a K-1 visa?
The K-1 visa itself does not authorize employment. However, after entering the U.S., your fiancé can file Form I-765 to request an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Work authorization typically arrives within 3-6 months.
What if we don't get married within 90 days?
The 90-day requirement is strict. If you do not marry within 90 days, your fiancé must leave the U.S. or face being out of status, which can affect future immigration benefits and potential bars to reentry.
What documents do we need for the K-1 petition?
Key documents include proof of U.S. citizenship, evidence of meeting in person (photos, travel records), proof relationship is genuine (communications, visit history), passport copies, and divorce/death certificates for any prior marriages.
Can my fiancé's children come with them?
Yes, unmarried children under 21 of your fiancé can apply for K-2 derivative visas. They must enter within one year of the K-1 visa issuance and can also adjust status after the marriage.
Ready to reunite with your fiancé?
Let's discuss your K-1 visa case and create a clear path to bringing your loved one to the United States.