Fiancé Visa (K-1 Visa) | ABP LAW
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What Is the K-1 Fiancé Visa?
The K-1 visa, also known as the fiancé(e) visa, allows a foreign national to enter the United States for the purpose of marrying their U.S. citizen fiancé(e). Once admitted to the U.S., the couple must marry within 90 days. After the marriage, the foreign spouse may apply for adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident (green card holder).
At ABP LAW, our experienced immigration attorneys help couples navigate the fiancé visa application process, from filing the I-129F petition to preparing for the visa interview abroad.
If you are lawfully married and wish to begin the green card process, our attorneys at ABP LAW are ready to guide you through every step.
K-1 Visa Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a K-1 visa, both the U.S. citizen and the foreign national fiancé(e) must meet the following requirements:
1. U.S. Citizenship of the Petitioner
Only U.S. citizens (not green card holders) can file a K-1 visa petition on behalf of their foreign fiancé(e).
2. Legal Capacity to Marry
Both parties must be legally free to marry, meaning all prior marriages must be terminated by divorce, annulment, or death.
3. In-Person Meeting Within 2 Years
The couple must have met in person within the last 2 years, unless doing so would cause extreme hardship or violate cultural customs.
4. Intent to Marry Within 90 Days
The couple must demonstrate a genuine intention to marry within 90 days of the fiancé(e)’s arrival in the U.S.
5. Proof of Genuine Relationship
Applicants must show evidence that the relationship is real and not entered into for the purpose of immigration benefits.
6. Financial Support
The U.S. citizen petitioner must meet income requirements and submit an Affidavit of Support to demonstrate financial capability.
Required Documents for a K-1 Fiancé Visa
The application process requires several key documents, including:
- Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e))
- Proof of U.S. citizenship (passport or birth certificate)
- Proof of relationship (photos, emails, travel records, etc.)
- Statements of intent to marry from both parties
- Police clearance certificates from all countries lived in since age 16
- Medical exam results from an authorized physician
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-134)
- Valid passport and passport-style photographs
K-1 Visa Application Process
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to apply for a K-1 visa:
Step 1: Financial Support
The U.S. citizen files Form I-129F, along with required documents proving a legitimate relationship and intent to marry.
Step 2: USCIS Review & Approval
USCIS reviews the petition. Once approved, the case is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC) for processing.
Step-3: Consular Processing
The foreign fiancé(e) applies for the K-1 visa and attends an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.
Step 4: Visa Issuance
If the visa is approved, the fiancé(e) can travel to the U.S. and must marry the petitioner within 90 days of arrival
Step 5: Adjustment of Status
After marriage, the foreign spouse must apply for adjustment of status (Form I-485) to obtain a green card.
K-1 Visa Processing Time
Processing times can vary depending on the complexity of the case and USCIS/NVC workloads. On average:
- USCIS petition processing: 6–9 months
- NVC and consular processing: 2–4 months
- Overall time frame: 9–14 months
Delays can occur due to missing documents, background checks, or high application volumes. Our team keeps you updated and helps expedite any delays.
K-1 Visa Fees
Below is a summary of potential costs associated with a K-1 visa:
- Form I-129F filing fee: $535
- K-1 visa application fee (paid to the U.S. embassy): $265
- Medical exam: Varies by country (usually $100–$300)
- Adjustment of status after marriage: $1,225 (I-485 package)
- Other costs may include translation services, passport renewals, and document authentication.
ABP LAW offers transparent legal fee structures and flexible payment options to help you budget effectively.
What Happens If a K-1 Visa Is Denied?
If your K-1 visa application is denied, you will receive a written notice outlining the reasons. Common issues include:
- Incomplete documentation
- Inconsistencies in statements or evidence
- Previous immigration violations or inadmissibility
- Failure to prove a bona fide relationship
Depending on the reason, you may choose to appeal, file a motion to reopen, or submit a new application. The attorneys at ABP LAW can help you evaluate your options and build a stronger case moving forward.
K-1 Visa Conditions and Restrictions
- You must marry within 90 days of entry, or the fiancé(e) must leave the U.S.
- No extensions are allowed — failure to marry will result in out-of-status consequences.
- K-1 visa holders are initially not eligible to work unless they apply for Form I-765 (EAD).
- After marriage, you must adjust status to remain in the U.S. legally and obtain a green card.
Why Choose ABP Law for Your K-1 Visa Case?
At ABP LAW, our team of dedicated immigration attorneys provides:
- One-on-one attorney access
- Step-by-step guidance for the full K-1 visa and green card process
- Experience handling complex fiancé visa cases, including waivers and RFE responses
- Flat-fee options with transparent pricing Assistance in multiple languages
We take pride in helping couples reunite and build their lives together in the United States.
Schedule a K-1 Visa Consultation Today
Don’t leave your future to chance. Let the trusted fiancé visa lawyers at ABP LAW help you bring your loved one to the U.S. legally and efficiently.
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