Important Things to Know About the K-1 Visa
With a K-1 visa, a foreign fiancé of a citizen of the United States can enter the U.S. and get married within 90 days of entry. K-1 visas are nonimmigrant visas. This means foreign nationals can remain in the country on a temporary basis but they do not provide lawful permanent residency. However, after the marriage has taken place, the spouse who entered the country on a K-1 visa can apply for adjustment of status and obtain a green card. Whether you are petitioning for your fiancé to enter the country or you are a foreign national, there are important things to know about these visas.
Quick Facts About the K-1 Visa
Before determining whether you are eligible for a K-1 visa, there are some important things to know about them. These are as follows:
- The cost to apply for a K-1 visa in 2025 is $675.
- The cost of obtaining a green card after the marriage in 2025 is $3005.
- Sponsors of K-1 visas must have an income that is equal to or greater than 100 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, which means sponsors must earn at least $20,400.
- Twenty-five percent of K-1 visa applications are denied.
- It takes approximately four to seven months to process a K-1 visa application.
Steps for Sponsors of K-1 Visas
There are many steps sponsors of K-1 visas must follow. These include:
- Submit Form I-129F: The K-1 visa application process begins with the sponsor submitting Form I-129F. The filing fee and supporting documents must also be submitted at the same time.
- Evidence of relationship: You must also submit evidence showing that your relationship is legitimate. This can include communication records, photos, travel itineraries documenting in-person meetings, and other proof that the two individuals are in a committed relationship.
- Submit Form I-134: If the USCIS approves Form I-129F, your case is sent to the National Visa Center and the US Embassy or Consulate in your fiancé’s home country. You then need to submit Form I-134 to show that you are financially able to support your fiancé.
- Help your fiancé (fiancée) prepare: Your fiancé or fiancée will have to prepare for an interview and a potential medical exam. They will have to submit certain documents. You can help them prepare for these steps to make it easier for them.
- Plan for marriage: After your fiancé enters the United States, it is critical that you marry within 90 days, or they will likely have to leave the country.
Our Immigration Attorney in Tampa Can Help with Your Application
If you want to help your fiancé enter the United States for the purpose of marriage, our Tampa immigration attorney can help. At Florida Law Advisers, P.A., our experienced attorney can ensure you are properly prepared for the process and guide you through it so your application is approved and you can start your life as a married couple. Call us now at 1 (800) 990-7763 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.
Sources:
uscis.gov/green-card
travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/family-immigration/nonimmigrant-visa-for-a-fiance-k-1.html
