A K-1 visa, also known as a fiancé visa, is a nonimmigrant visa that permits a foreign-citizen fiancé of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States for the purpose of getting married and subsequently pursuing permanent residency (LPR) through the marriage green card process.

How Long Does It Take To Get A K-1 Fiancé Visa?

As of 2023 forecasts, the processing time for a K-1 application (Form I-129F) for applications filed today is estimated to average around 8 months. This estimation is based on a daily analysis of the current backlog and processing rates by Track My Visa Now. Following the approval of Form I-129F, it can take approximately four to six weeks for USCIS to forward the case to the National Visa Center (NVC).

K-1 Visa Eligibility

The K-1 fiancé visa allows a U.S. citizen to sponsor their foreign partner to legally enter the United States with the intention of marrying within 90 days after the foreign fiancé’s arrival in the U.S. To be eligible for a K-1 visa, the following requirements must be met:

• S. Citizenship: The sponsoring fiancé must be a U.S. citizen. Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) are not eligible to sponsor their fiancé for a K-1 visa.
• Marital Status: Both partners must be unmarried at the time of application. As evidence, the couple must submit any previous divorce decrees, annulments, or death certificates of former spouses.
• Valid Relationship: The couple must provide evidence to establish the validity of their relationship.
• In-Person Meeting: The couple must prove that they have met in person at least once within two years of applying for the visa. Some exceptions may apply, including cases of extreme hardship or situations where meeting in person would violate certain religious, cultural, or social norms.
• Intent to Marry: Both partners must submit a signed document stating their intent to get married within 90 days after the foreign fiancé arrives in the U.S. Additionally, including other evidence such as a venue booking or wedding invitations is advisable.
• Financial Requirements: The U.S. citizen sponsor must meet the income requirements for a K-1 visa, with their adjusted gross income on their most recent tax return being equal to at least 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. A joint sponsor may be used if the sponsor cannot meet the income requirement on their own.

Note: Same-sex partners are eligible to apply for a K-1 visa, regardless of whether the laws in the sponsored fiancé’s home country allow for same-sex marriage.

For expert assistance with your K-1 Fiancé Visa application and document preparation, contact SG Immigration Solutions today. We are here to guide you through the process and ensure a smooth journey toward your wedding and permanent residency in the United States.

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Legal Disclaimer: SG immigration Solutions is a document preparer service and is not a law firm. We are not licensed to practice law, provide legal advice, or represent you in any legal matter. The documents we prepare are based on the information you provide, and they are not a substitute for legal advice from a qualified attorney.