If you are a U.S. citizen and your fiancé(e) is a foreign national, you may be able to bring them to the United States through a k1 Visa Application. This visa allows your fiancé(e) to enter the U.S. for the purpose of marriage, as long as the wedding takes place within 90 days of arrival. After marriage, your spouse may apply for a green card based on marriage.
Because every family’s situation is different, it’s important to consult an experienced immigration attorney to choose the best option—whether the K-1 fiancé(e) visa or another marriage-based visa.
K1 Visa Requirements
To qualify for the K-1 visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- The petitioner must be a U.S. citizen (green card holders cannot apply).
- Both parties must be legally free to marry under U.S. state laws (all prior marriages must be legally terminated).
- The couple must have met in person within the last two years (limited exceptions apply).
- The U.S. citizen sponsor must meet the income requirement.
- The marriage must take place within 90 days of entry into the U.S.
Income Guidelines (2025)
- The sponsor must earn at least 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- Example: For a 2-person household, the minimum income is $21,150 in the continental U.S.
- Higher amounts apply in Alaska and Hawaii.
- Active-duty military sponsors must meet 125% of the Poverty Guidelines.
- If income is insufficient, a joint sponsor may help.
K1 Visa Document Checklist
To prevent delays, gather the following documents early:
From the U.S. Citizen Petitioner:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or U.S. passport)
- Divorce decree, annulment, or death certificate from prior marriages (if applicable)
- Signed statements of intent to marry from both partners
- Evidence of having met in person (photos, travel records, communication logs)
From the Foreign Fiancé(e):
- Valid passport (valid at least 6 months beyond intended U.S. entry)
- Two passport-style photos
- Birth certificate (with certified English translation, if necessary)
- Divorce decree, annulment, or death certificate from prior marriages (if applicable)
- Police clearance certificates (if lived in another country for 6+ months)
- Sealed medical exam report from a U.S.-approved physician
Supporting Documents:
- Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e))
- Form DS-160 confirmation page
- Form I-134 (Affidavit of Support with financial evidence, such as tax returns)
- Proof of relationship (photos, chat logs, travel records, wedding plans, etc.)
K-1 Visa Application Process
Call our law office for a better idea of how long you should expect when filing a K-1 visa at (888) 347-3923. You can also check the processing times on the USCIS website.
Step 1: File Form I-129F with USCIS.
Step 2: Once approved, USCIS forwards your petition to the National Visa Center (NVC).
Step 3: The U.S. Embassy or Consulate schedules the visa interview. If approved, your fiancé(e) receives the visa.
Step 4: Your fiancé(e) enters the U.S. with the K-1 visa and must marry within 90 days.
At the port of entry, a CBP officer may ask questions about your plans, collect fingerprints, and review sealed documents from the U.S. consulate.
K-1 Visa Costs (2025)
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Form I-129F (Petition) | $675 |
| Form DS-160 (Processing Fee) | $265 |
| Medical Exam | $100–$400 (varies) |
| Adjustment of Status (Form I-485, after marriage) | $1,440 |
| Attorney Fees | Varies |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do we need to meet in person before applying?
Yes, unless meeting would violate cultural traditions or create extreme hardship.
How long is the approved petition valid?
Four months, but a consular officer may extend it if needed.
Can same-sex couples apply?
Yes, as long as all requirements are met.
Is a medical exam required?
Yes, performed by an approved physician at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
How long is the visa valid?
Up to six months for a single entry.
Can my fiancé(e) work in the U.S.?
Yes. They can apply for a work permit (Form I-765) upon arrival, valid for 90 days.
What if my application is denied?
You should consult an immigration attorney immediately to review the reasons for denial and explore appeal or re-filing options.
Contact a K1 Visa Lawyer
Filing for a fiancé(e) visa involves strict requirements, detailed documentation, and time-sensitive deadlines. Working with an experienced immigration attorney can help avoid mistakes and speed up the process.
📞 For a free K-1 case review, call (888) 347-3923.
K1 Visa Overview
- Processing time (as of Aug. 2025): ~11 months
- Application fees: $940 (excluding medical exam and related costs)
- Required forms: Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)) and DS-160 (Online Visa Application)
Note: USCIS released a revised version of Form I-129F that became mandatory on May 1, 2025. The update aims to streamline applications and reduce filing errors.
📞 Call (888) 347-3923 today to schedule a consultation with Attorney Linda Lee at The Immigration Law Office of Los Angeles, P.C.. Our team has guided thousands of couples through the K-1 visa process and can help you bring your fiancé(e) to the United States.
See More Post: Click Here
Conclusion
The K-1 fiancé(e) visa is a valuable option for U.S. citizens who wish to bring their future spouse to the United States. While the process requires time, careful preparation, and strict documentation, it ultimately allows couples to begin their lives together in the U.S. Working with an experienced immigration attorney can help reduce delays, avoid mistakes, and improve your chances of success. Professional guidance ensures a smooth path forward.