The K-1 fiancé(e) visa allows a U.S. citizen to sponsor their foreign fiancé(e) to come to the United States for marriage. Once in the U.S., the couple must marry within 90 days, after which the foreign spouse can apply for a green card through adjustment of status.
At Alsalman Law Office, we help couples navigate the fiancé(e) visa process by ensuring that all paperwork is properly prepared and that our clients are fully informed about each step of the process.
What is the K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa?
The K-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that permits a foreign fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States for the purpose of marriage. Unlike spousal visas, which require the couple to be married before applying, the K-1 visa allows the marriage to take place in the U.S.
Once the couple marries within the required 90-day period, the foreign spouse can apply for a green card through adjustment of status.
Fiancé(e) Visa Eligibility Requirements:
The petitioner must be a U.S. citizen (lawful permanent residents cannot apply for a fiancé(e) visa).
Both partners must be legally free to marry (all previous marriages must be legally terminated).
The couple must have met in person at least once within the past two years unless an exception applies.
The U.S. citizen must meet the financial income requirement to prove they can support their fiancé(e).
The couple must intend to marry within 90 days of the fiancé(e)’s arrival in the U.S.
The K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa Process
1
File Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e))
The U.S. citizen petitioner submits Form I-129F to USCIS along with supporting documents proving the relationship is genuine. — Once USCIS approves the petition, the case is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC). — Petitioner must provide evidence to prove that have met their fiancé(e) in person within two years of filling prior to filing Form I-129F.
2
Visa Processing at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate
The foreign fiancé(e) submits the required documents, including Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application). — The fiancé(e) must undergo a medical examination by an approved physician. — A visa interview is conducted at the U.S. embassy or consulate in the fiancé(e)’s home country. — If approved, the fiancé(e) receives a K-1 visa to travel to the U.S.
3
Entry to the U.S. and Marriage Within 90 Days
The fiancé(e) must enter the U.S. before the K-1 visa expires. — The couple must marry within 90 days of the fiancé(e)’s arrival. — If the couple does not marry within the required timeframe, the fiancé(e) visa holder must leave the U.S.
4
Apply for Adjustment of Status (Green Card Application)
After marriage, the foreign spouse can apply for a green card by filing Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). — The spouse may also apply for work authorization and travel permission while the green card application is pending. — A USCIS interview is required before final approval of permanent residence.
Financial Requirements for the Fiancé(e) Visa
The U.S. citizen petitioner must demonstrate they have sufficient income to support their fiancé(e). This is done by submitting Form I-134 (Affidavit of Support) during the visa process and later providing Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) when applying for a green card.
The income requirement is based on the federal poverty guidelines and varies depending on household size. If the petitioner does not meet the minimum income threshold, a joint sponsor may be needed.
Common Reasons for Fiancé(e) Visa Denials
Insufficient evidence of a genuine relationship
Failure to meet the income requirement
Incomplete or incorrect documentation
Past immigration violations or criminal history
Failing the visa interview
Alsalman Law Office helps clients prepare a strong fiancé(e) visa petition to minimize the risk of delays or denials.
How Alsalman Law Office Can Help
Applying for a fiancé(e) visa requires careful documentation and strict adherence to USCIS and embassy requirements. Alsalman Law Office provides professional guidance to help couples successfully navigate the process. We assist with:
Determining eligibility and identifying the best immigration path
Preparing and filing Form I-129F and supporting documents
Ensuring all financial requirements are met
Helping clients prepare for the embassy interview
Assisting with adjustment of status after marriage
Start Your Fiancé(e) Visa Process Today
If you are ready to bring your fiancé(e) to the U.S., Alsalman Law Office is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward building your future together.
At Alsalman Law Office, we are committed to reuniting couples and making the immigration process as smooth as possible.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws are complex and subject to change. For personalized legal guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
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Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Alsalman Law Office PLLC
325 West Main Street, Suite 2104 Louisville, KY 40202
