Fiancé Visa (K-1)
At N400 Harbor Immigration Law, we know how important it is to be with the ones you love. The U.S. immigration process can feel like a maze, especially when you’re eager to bring your fiancé(e) to the United States.
That’s where we come in. With years of experience helping couples, we’ve guided countless clients through securing a K-1 Fiancé Visa, bringing them one step closer to their dreams of starting a life together in the U.S.
In this guide, we’ll explain the K-1 visa, how it works, and how our team can support you.
What Is the K-1 Fiancé Visa?
The K-1 visa is designed for U.S. citizens who want to bring their foreign-citizen fiancé(e) to the United States to get married. It’s a temporary visa, and after the marriage takes place, the foreign spouse can apply for a Green Card to become a lawful permanent resident.
Eligibility Requirements for the K-1 Visa
To apply for a K-1 visa, there are a few boxes you’ll need to check. Here’s a quick overview:
- U.S. Citizenship: Only U.S. citizens (not Green Card holders) can file for a K-1 visa.
- Genuine Relationship: You must prove your relationship is real, not just for immigration purposes. Evidence like photos, travel receipts, messages, and affidavits from friends and family helps.
- Intent to Marry: Both you and your fiancé(e) must plan to marry within 90 days of their arrival in the U.S.
- Meeting in Person: You must have met in person at least once in the two years before filing unless cultural or other extenuating circumstances prevent it.
- Legal Ability to Marry: You and your fiancé(e) must both be legally free to marry—no current marriages or legal barriers.
- Financial Ability: You’ll need to show that you can financially support your fiancé(e) at a minimum income level, usually by submitting tax returns or an Affidavit of Support.
Steps in the K-1 Visa Process
Applying for a K-1 visa involves several stages. Here’s how it works:
File Form I-129F
The U.S. citizen petitioner submits Form I-129F to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), along with the required documents and filing fee.
USCIS Review
USCIS reviews your petition and may request additional evidence, if necessary. Once approved, your petition moves to the National Visa Center (NVC).
National Visa Center (NVC) Processing
The NVC assigns a case number and forwards your case to the U.S. embassy or consulate in your fiancé(e)’s home country.
Consular Processing
Your fiancé(e) will:
- Complete Form DS-160 (online visa application).
- Undergo a medical exam with an approved physician.
- Gather necessary civil documents, such as birth certificates and police records.
- Attend a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
Visa Approval
If all goes well, the visa is issued, and your fiancé(e) can travel to the U.S. The visa is valid for up to six months and allows for a single entry.
Marriage and Adjustment of Status
Once in the U.S., you’ll have 90 days to get married. After the wedding, your spouse can apply for a Green Card by filing Form I-485.
Common Challenges and How We Help
Even with the best preparation, the K-1 visa process can encounter obstacles. That’s where our team steps in. Whether responding to a Request for Evidence, gathering hard-to-find documents, or preparing for the visa interview, we’ve seen it all and can help you avoid unnecessary delays.
Some challenges we frequently assist with include:
- Providing additional evidence of relationship authenticity
- Navigating cultural or logistical barriers to meeting the in-person requirement
- Addressing concerns raised during the consular interview
- Ensuring financial requirements are met
How N400 Harbor Immigration Law Can Assist You
We know the K-1 visa process inside and out, and our goal is to make it as stress-free as possible for you and your fiancé(e). Here’s what we offer:
- Thorough Documentation Support: We help you compile and organize all necessary paperwork, leaving no detail overlooked.
- Visa Interview Preparation: We’ll guide your fiancé(e) through what to expect at the interview, ensuring they feel confident and ready.
- Ongoing Communication: From filing the petition to the moment your fiancé(e) arrives in the U.S., we keep you informed at every step.
- Post-Visa Guidance: After the marriage, we assist with filing for a Green Card, so your spouse can stay in the U.S. legally.
Why Choose N400 Harbor Immigration Law?
Helping families come together is at the heart of what we do. Based in Pompano Beach, Florida, we’ve worked with clients worldwide, bringing couples closer to their happily ever after. When you work with us, you’re not just another case—you’re part of our family.
Ready to Start Your Fiancé Visa Application?
The K-1 visa process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Let us handle the details so you can focus on what matters most: your future together.
Call N400 Harbor Immigration Law today at 305- 396-8882 or use our online form to schedule a free consultation. We’re here to answer your questions, assess your case, and guide you every step of the way.