What Is the K-1 Visa?
The K-1 visa allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign-national fiance to the United States for the purpose of marriage. The couple must marry within 90 days of arrival. After marriage, the spouse may apply for adjustment of status to obtain a green card.
Eligibility
- The petitioner must be a U.S. citizen (permanent residents cannot file K-1 petitions)
- Both parties must be legally free to marry
- The couple must have met in person at least once within the preceding two years
- The couple must have a genuine intention to marry within 90 days of arrival
Application Process
- File Form I-129F — Petition for Alien Fiance
- USCIS processing — Current times: 8-14 months
- National Visa Center — Case transfers to NVC, then to the consulate
- Consular interview — The fiance attends a visa interview abroad
- Entry to the U.S. — Six months to enter after visa issuance
- Marriage — Must marry within 90 days of entry
- Adjustment of status — File Form I-485 for a green card
K-1 vs Marriage Green Card: Which Is Faster?
- K-1 total timeline: 12-20 months from filing to green card
- Direct consular processing: 12-18 months from filing to immigrant visa
The K-1 is advantageous if the couple wants to marry in the U.S. Consular processing may be faster overall since the spouse receives a green card upon entry.
K-2 Visa for Children
Unmarried children under 21 of the K-1 beneficiary may receive K-2 derivative visas to accompany their parent.