K-1 Nonimmigrant Visa

Fiancé Visa (K-1): Bring Your Partner to America to Marry

The K-1 fiancé visa allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the United States for marriage within 90 days of entry. It is the only visa category specifically designed for engaged couples who plan to marry in the U.S.

Only U.S. citizens — not permanent residents — may file for a K-1 visa. Attorney Goncalves manages the entire process from I-129F through consular interview and post-marriage green card adjustment.

Days to Marry

After U.S. entry, you must marry within 90 days or your fiancé must depart the United States.

Complete K-1 Timeline

USCIS6–10 months

I-129F petition filed and adjudicated

NVC2–4 weeks

Case transferred to National Visa Center

Embassy2–4 months

DS-160, medical exam, interview scheduled

Entry90 days

Enter U.S. and marry your fiancé(e)

AOS8–14 months

File I-485 for green card after marriage

I-129F Petition Requirements

Before your fiancé can apply for a K-1 visa, USCIS must approve Form I-129F. This petition establishes that you have a bona fide relationship and intend to marry within 90 days of your fiancé's U.S. entry.

In-Person Meeting

You must have met in person within 2 years of filing, unless a waiver is granted for extreme hardship or cultural customs.

Intent to Marry

Both parties must be legally free to marry and intend to marry within 90 days of the K-1 visa holder's U.S. entry.

U.S. Citizen Only

Only U.S. citizens may file I-129F. Permanent residents must marry abroad and petition through the I-130 spousal route.

Children (K-2)

Unmarried children under 21 of the K-1 beneficiary may accompany on K-2 visas derived from the parent's petition.

Consular Interview Document Checklist

✓DS-160 confirmation page
✓Valid passport (6+ months validity)
✓Two passport-style photos
✓I-129F approval notice (I-797)
✓Birth certificate with translation
✓Police certificates from all countries of residence
✓Medical examination (Form I-693 or embassy form)
✓Evidence of relationship (photos, messages, travel records)
✓I-134 Affidavit of Support from U.S. citizen petitioner
✓Petitioner's proof of U.S. citizenship
✓Divorce decrees from any prior marriages

Fiancé Visa FAQs

Can my fiancé work on a K-1 visa?+

Your fiancé may apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) after entering the U.S. on a K-1 visa, or after filing I-485 following marriage. Work authorization is not automatic upon entry.

What happens if we don't marry within 90 days?+

The K-1 visa holder must depart the United States. Overstaying creates unlawful presence and can trigger future immigration bars. There is no extension of the 90-day period.

Is K-1 faster than marrying abroad and filing I-130?+

It depends on the embassy location and current processing times. K-1 is often faster for couples who want to marry in the U.S., but each case should be evaluated individually.

Can we visit the U.S. on a tourist visa while K-1 is pending?+

This is risky. Entering on a B-2 visa with intent to immigrate can be considered visa fraud. Consult with an attorney before any U.S. travel while a petition is pending.

Attorney Jacquelyn R. Goncalves personally handles every case — Connecticut and nationwide.

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