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Mastering the K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa Procedure

Dreaming of a life with your foreign fiancé in the U.S.? The K-1 Fiancé Visa can make this dream a reality.

In this article, we’ll break down the petition process and give you detailed information to ensure you’re well-prepared for a successful application.

Step-By-Step Process to Obtain a K-1 Visa

  1. File the Petition: As the U.S. citizen sponsor, you’ll initiate the process by filing Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), with USCIS. It serves as the foundation of the K-1 Visa process. Access Form I-129F here.
  2. National Visa Center (NVC) Action: After USCIS approves the I-129F, the NVC assigns a case number. Then, they forward it to the U.S. embassy or consulate where your fiancé(e) will apply.
  3. Visa Application: Armed with the NVC case number, your fiancé(e) fills out the DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. They should follow guidance from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Find the DS-160 form here.
  4. Medical Exam & Vaccination: Before the interview, your fiancé(e) must undergo a medical exam by an approved doctor. Vaccinations may also be required.
  5. Attend the Interview: A consular officer evaluates the visa eligibility during an in-person interview.
  6. Arrival in the U.S.: Once the visa gets granted, your fiancé(e) should promptly enter the U.S. Remember, you must marry within 90 days of their arrival.

Considerations When Filing the Petition

  • Accuracy Matters: Ensure all details in your application are accurate and consistent.
  • Solid Proof: The more evidence you provide of a genuine relationship, the smoother the process.
  • Consultation: Consider getting a professional or legal help. While not mandatory, they can guide you, especially if complexities arise.

Required Documents with the I-129F Petition

  • Proof of Citizenship: This could be a passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate.
  • Genuine Relationship Evidence: Photos, travel records, and communication logs can help.
  • Intent to Marry: Letters or statements showing both parties intend to wed within 90 days of the foreign fiancé(e)’s U.S. entry.
  • Divorce or Death Decrees: If either party was previously married, you’ll need evidence of the marriage’s legal termination.

Timeline and Costs

  • Timeline: The process usually spans 6 to 9 months. However, factors like USCIS case load, your fiancé(e)’s country, and embassy processes can affect this.
  • Form I-129F: The filing fee stands at $535.
  • DS-160 Visa Application: This comes with a $265 fee.
  • Medical Examination: Costs vary, ranging from $50 to $300, depending on location and specific tests.
  • Adjustment of Status: Post marriage, adjusting your fiancé(e)’s status to obtain a green card incurs a $1,225 fee, including biometric services.

The K-1 visa journey, while intricate, brings couples together. Equip yourself with the right knowledge, be patient, and before long, you and your fiancé(e) will start your U.S. chapter.