K-1 Visa: Fiancé(e) visa
The K-1 Visa allows the foreign partner of a U.S. citizen to legally enter the United States to marry and then apply for permanent residence. We help you handle the entire process, from the initial petition to the green card.
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What is the K-1 Visa?
The K-1 Visa, also called the fiancé(e) visa, is the visa that allows the foreign partner of a U.S. citizen to travel to the United States for the specific purpose of getting married. Once both marry, the foreign partner can apply for adjustment of status to obtain a green card. It is important to understand one thing: the K-1 Visa is not for people who are already married. If you are already married, the route is a direct family petition through marriage. The K-1 is exclusively for couples who are not yet married but want to get married on U.S. soil. The K-1 comes with a K-2 if the foreign partner has unmarried children under 21, so they can also accompany them.
Who can qualify
For the foreign partner to obtain the K-1 Visa, these requirements must be met:
How the process works
Initial petition in the United States
The U.S. citizen files Form I-129F together with evidence of the relationship: photos together, communication history, trips, wedding plans.
Approval by immigration
Immigration reviews the petition. If approved, sends the case to the National Visa Center for consular processing.
Consulate processing
The consulate in the foreign partner's country contacts to schedule the interview. A medical exam and additional documentation are required.
Consular interview
The foreign partner attends the interview at the consulate. If approved, receives the K-1 Visa in their passport. The visa is valid for 6 months to enter the U.S.
Entry to the United States and marriage
The foreign partner enters the country with the K-1. They have 90 days to legally marry. Without marriage within 90 days, they must leave the country.
Adjustment of status
After marriage, we file adjustment of status so the foreign partner obtains their green card.
How long does the process take?
Typical times are:
- Approval of the I-129F petition: 8 to 12 months.
- Consular processing and interview: 3 to 6 additional months.
- Total until having the K-1 visa in hand: 12 to 18 months on average.
- Adjustment of status after marriage: 8 to 14 additional months.
Total time from start to green card can range between 18 and 30 months.
How much does representation cost?
After evaluating your circumstances, we will explain the recommended legal strategy, total fees, and available payment-plan options. The final cost depends on whether you hire us only for the initial petition or for the full process (K-1 plus subsequent adjustment of status).
Frequently asked questions
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