A K-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa issued to the foreign-citizen fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen. Its primary purpose is to allow the foreign fiancé(e) to enter the United States to marry their U.S. citizen partner.
Key points about the K-1 visa:
- Marriage Requirement: The foreign fiancé(e) must marry their U.S. citizen sponsor within 90 days of entering the U.S. on the K-1 visa.
- Adjustment of Status: After marriage, the foreign spouse can apply for adjustment of status to a permanent resident (green card).
- Children: Children of the foreign fiancé(e) may also be eligible for K-2 visas to accompany them to the U.S.
- Eligibility: Both the U.S. citizen and the foreign fiancé(e) must meet specific requirements, including being legally free to marry and having a genuine relationship.
The K-1 visa process typically involves:
- Petition Filing: The U.S. citizen files a Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If approved, the foreign fiancé(e) proceeds with the visa application at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country..
- Visa Interview: The foreign fiancé(e) attends an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country.
- Visa Approval: If approved, the foreign fiancé(e) receives the K-1 visa and can travel to the U.S.
- Marriage: The couple must marry within 90 days of the foreign fiancé(e)’s arrival.
- Green Card Application: After marriage, the foreign spouse may apply for a green card with USCIS.
Note: The K-1 visa process can be time-consuming, so it is important to plan ahead and gather all necessary documents.
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