TheK-1 Visais designed for the foreign fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to travel to the United States for the purpose of getting married. It is a special process that combines immigration and family aspects, and requires meeting specific requirements to be approved.
🔹 1. Who can apply for the K-1 Visa?
✅ U.S. citizens who wish to bring their foreign fiancé(e).
✅ Couples who intend to marry within the90 days afterthe beneficiary's entry to the U.S.
✅ Fiancés who meet the legal marriage requirements in the U.S.
✅ Applicants who have demonstrated having had anin-person meetingin the last two years (with exceptions).
🔹 2. What institutions are involved in the process?
Depending on the stage, different entities participate:
🏛 USCIS— Receives and reviews theForm I-129F(Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)).
🌍 NVC / KCC— The approved case goes to theNational Visa Centerfor forwarding to the appropriate consulate.
🏢 U.S. Embassy or Consulate— Where the fiancé(e) will have the final interview.
🛂 CBP (Customs and Border Protection)— Reviews the visa upon entry to the U.S.
🔹 3. Main steps of the process
The U.S. citizen submits theForm I-129Fbefore USCIS.
Once approved, the case is sent to theNVCand then to the U.S. consulate in the beneficiary's country.
The fiancé(e) completes forms, undergoes a medical exam, and submits civil documents.
Theconsular interview, where the officer reviews evidence of the relationship, is scheduled.
If approved, the beneficiary receives theK-1 Visato enter the U.S.
The marriage must take place within90 daysof entry.
After the marriage, theAdjustment of Status (Form I-485)is requested to obtain permanent residency.
🔹 4. Quick FAQs
Can I work with the K-1 Visa?
✔️ Yes, you can apply for a work permit (EAD) after entering the U.S.
What happens if we don't get married in 90 days?
❌ The beneficiary will lose legal status and may face deportation.
Is the K-1 visa the same as residency?
❌ No. The K-1 only allows entry and marriage. Residency is requested later with the adjustment of status.
What about the children of the fiancé(e)?
✔️ They can apply for theK-2 Visaas derivatives of the process.
🔹 5. Why choose Golden Seal for your K-1 process?
✅ We assist you in preparing theI-129Faccording to the information provided by the client.
✅ We gather all the relationship evidence provided by the client to avoid rejections.
✅ Professional, close, and clear attention, because we understand how important it is to reunite families.
📌 Note:Each case is unique. This guide is general and does not replace personalized legal advice.