What is a Fiancé Visa (K-1 VISA)?

February 15, 2023

What is a Fiancé Visa (K-1 VISA)?


What is the purpose of a K-1 Visa? 


For a US Citizen to bring his/her foreign partner to the United States to legally marry them. Through this visa, your fiancé will be allowed to travel to the United States and marry within 90-days. After you are married, your spouse can apply for adjustment of status to become a legal permanent resident. 


How do you apply for a K-1 Visa? 


Submit the I-129F application with supporting documents to USCIS. USCIS will notify you once your I-129F application is approved. USCIS will also send a notice to the National Visa Center (NVC). Once your fiancé submits the DS160 application to the NVC, your fiancé will schedule an appointment at the U.S. consulate or embassy abroad in his or her country. If the consulate or embassy approves your fiancé’s visa, your fiancé must enter the United States within the visa validity period and you must marry within 90 days of his/her entry into the United States. 


What do I need to show USCIS? 


  • You intend to marry within 90 days of your fiancé’s admission into the U.S. with the K-1 Visa
  • Both legally free to marry in the United States (not married to anyone else!)
  • You have met your fiancé at least within the last two years 
  • You meet the necessary income requirements (must be able to support your fiancé in the US)


What supporting documents are needed?


  • Click here to download a checklist of supporting documents needed to mail with your application to    USCIS.


Frequently Asked Questions:


            Can I bring my fiancé’s children to the U.S. as well? 


  • Yes! 


            What if we do not get married within the 90 days?


  • Your fiancé will be legally required to depart the United States.


           What is the case processing time for the K-1 Visa?


  • Depends on the service center the case is assigned to. Average case process is 4 - 15.5 months. 


Does USCIS perform background checks?


  • Yes, on both individuals as part of the Form I-129F adjudication. *Background checks include checks of criminal, national security and other information.


Tips:


  1. How to pay the filing fee for the K-1 Visa? 
  2. You may pay the fee with a money order, personal check, cashier’s check or pay by credit card using    Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions. If you pay by check, you must make your check payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
  3. All documents, such as birth certificates, death certificates, letters, etc., that are in a language other than English, must include a certified translation in English. 
  4. Provide as much evidence of your relationship as possible to prevent immigration from doubting your relationship!
  5. In your sworn statement declaring your intent to marry, include reasons why you want to get married and how you want to get married. (For example, at a church, at the courthouse, a small outdoor ceremony, etc.)

Each case is unique. Wheeler Law is available to answer any questions. Schedule a consultation to discuss your options and start your fight. 602-586-5625.

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