What is a K-1 fiancé(e) visa?
The K-1 fiancé(e) visa allows an eligible foreign-citizen fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to travel to the United States to marry that U.S. citizen. The couple must intend to marry within 90 days after the fiancé(e) enters the United States on the K-1 visa.
After the marriage, the foreign spouse generally must apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for adjustment of status to seek permanent residence. The K-1 visa itself is not a green card.
Who may qualify?
In general, the following conditions apply:
- The petitioner is a U.S. citizen. A lawful permanent resident generally cannot petition for a fiancé(e) using the K-1 category.
- Both people were legally free to marry when the petition was filed and remain free to marry; any previous marriages must have legally ended.
- The couple genuinely intends to marry each other within 90 days after the foreign fiancé(e) enters the United States.
- The couple generally must have met in person within the two years before filing, unless USCIS grants a limited exception.
- The couple must meet all other applicable requirements and provide the required forms and evidence.
These are general guidelines, not a determination that a particular couple qualifies. USCIS and the consular officer review the facts and evidence in each case.
How the K-1 process generally works
The U.S. citizen files Form I-129F
The U.S. citizen generally files the Petition for Alien Fiancé(e) with USCIS and provides evidence required by the current form instructions.
USCIS reviews the petition
If approved, the case is generally forwarded for further processing and instructions for the visa application.
The fiancé(e) applies for the visa
The applicant follows embassy or consulate instructions, completes the required online visa application, gathers civil and relationship documents, completes a medical examination with an authorized physician, and attends the required interview.
The consular officer makes a decision
The officer reviews the application and evidence. Additional documents or administrative processing may be required.
The couple marries within 90 days
If the visa is issued and the fiancé(e) is admitted to the United States, the couple must marry each other within 90 days of entry. A visa does not guarantee admission at the border.
The foreign spouse applies for the next status
After marriage, the foreign spouse generally applies for adjustment of status with USCIS to seek permanent residence.
What documents may be required?
Requirements vary by case and by the instructions of the agency or consulate. Common examples include:
- Evidence of the U.S. petitioner’s citizenship.
- Evidence that both partners are legally free to marry, including documents showing previous marriages ended if applicable.
- Evidence of the relationship, intent to marry, and the in-person meeting requirement or an applicable exception.
- A valid passport, birth certificate, required civil records, and police certificates where required.
- The required online visa application, photographs, medical examination, and interview documents.
- Financial support information or other evidence requested by the consular officer.
This is not a complete checklist. Use current official instructions and the document requirements for the country where the applicant will interview. Documents may need certified translations.
What about children?
Certain eligible children of a K-1 applicant may qualify for K-2 visas. Separate applications and fees may apply, and the rules can depend on the child’s circumstances. Check official instructions before making family travel plans.
How long does the K-1 process take?
There is no single timeline for every couple. Time can depend on USCIS processing, petition completeness, requests for evidence, case handling, consular appointment availability, and case-specific checks. Check current official processing information rather than relying on an old article or online forum.
How much does a K-1 visa cost?
Total costs may include government filing and visa fees, medical examination and vaccination costs, civil documents and translations, travel, and optional professional or support services. Government fees can change. Confirm current amounts on official websites and request a written breakdown of any private service fees.
Important rights and protections
Applicants should understand their rights and available protections before immigrating. The U.S. Department of State provides official information for fiancé(e) and spousal visa applicants about domestic violence, abuse, and protections under U.S. law.
Read the U.S. Department of State’s rights and protections information →
Frequently asked questions
Can we use the K-1 visa if we are already married?
The K-1 category is for eligible fiancé(e)s who intend to marry after entry. If you are already legally married, read about the CR-1 and IR-1 spousal visa categories.
Does meeting online count as meeting in person?
An online relationship alone generally does not meet the in-person meeting requirement. The general rule is that the couple must have met in person within the two years before filing, although limited exceptions may be available.
Do we have to marry within 90 days?
Yes. A person admitted on a K-1 visa is expected to marry the U.S. citizen petitioner within 90 days of entry.
Does the K-1 visa automatically give my fiancé(e) a green card?
No. After marriage, the foreign spouse generally must apply for adjustment of status and meet the applicable requirements.
Can anyone guarantee approval or a specific processing time?
No. The U.S. government decides whether to approve a petition and issue a visa. Processing times vary, and no private provider can guarantee an outcome.
Can Cherry Blossoms Dating give legal advice about our case?
This website provides general educational information. For advice about your specific circumstances, consult an appropriately qualified immigration attorney or other authorized professional.