For Those Planning to Marry a U.S. Citizen and Live in the U.S.

The K-1 Fiancé Visa allows a foreign national to enter the United States for the purpose of marrying a U.S. citizen. It’s a key step toward building a life together and offers a pathway to permanent residency.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for a K-1 visa:

• You must be engaged to a U.S. citizen
• You must have met in person within the past two years (some exceptions apply)
• Both partners must be legally free to marry
• The couple must intend to marry within 90 days of the foreign fiancé’s arrival in the U.S.

How the Process Works

1. Petition Filing

    

• The U.S. citizen files Form I-129F with USCIS
• This establishes the relationship and intent to marry

   

1. Embassy Processing

    

• Once approved, the case is sent to the U.S. embassy or consulate in the fiancé’s country
• The foreign fiancé completes a medical exam and attends an in-person interview

   

1. Visa Issuance & Entry

    

• If approved, the fiancé receives the K-1 visa and can travel to the U.S.
• The couple must marry within 90 days of arrival

   

1. Adjustment of Status

    

• After marriage, the foreign spouse applies for a green card through Adjustment of Status (Form I-485)
• This allows them to become a lawful permanent resident

   

Key Benefits

• Allows the couple to start their life together in the U.S. sooner
• The foreign spouse can apply for work authorization while their green card is pending
• Leads to permanent residency, and eventually U.S. citizenship

   

Things to Consider

• The K-1 process requires detailed documentation and preparation
• Processing times can vary—planning ahead is important
• The couple must marry within 90 days, or the fiancé must leave the U.S.
• Adjustment of status can take time; patience and accuracy are key

   

In Summary

The K-1 Fiancé Visa is a powerful way to reunite couples and start a new chapter together in the United States. While the process involves multiple steps, it offers a clear path from engagement to marriage to permanent residency—and ultimately, the opportunity to pursue the American dream together.