Fiancé Visas (K-1 Visa)
Helping You Bring Your Loved One to the U.S.
Thinking About Bringing Your Fiancé to the United States? We Can Help.
The K-1 Fiancé Visa allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the United States with the intention of getting married within 90 days of arrival. After marriage, the foreign national may apply for a green card through a process called adjustment of status.
At Veritas Immigration Law, P.A., we assist couples every step of the way—from filing the initial petition to preparing for the visa interview and green card application. Based in Naples, Florida, we proudly serve clients across the U.S. and around the world.
What Is a Fiancé Visa (K-1 Visa)?
The K-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows a foreign fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States for the purpose of marriage. The couple must marry within 90 days of the foreign fiancé(e)'s arrival.
Once married, the foreign national becomes eligible to apply for lawful permanent residence (green card) through adjustment of status.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a K-1 fiancé visa:
· The petitioner must be a U.S. citizen (not just a lawful permanent resident)
· Both parties must be legally free to marry
· The couple must intend to marry within 90 days of the fiancé(e)'s entry
· They must have met in person within the past two years (with limited exceptions)
· The relationship must be bona fide (genuine), not for immigration purposes
Step-by-Step K-1 Visa Process
1. USCIS Petition (Form I-129F)
· Filed by the U.S. citizen petitioner with USCIS
· Includes evidence of the relationship and meeting requirement
· USCIS reviews and approves the petition (typically 6–10 months)
2. National Visa Center (NVC)
· Once approved, the case is transferred to the U.S. embassy or consulate abroad
· The foreign fiancé(e) completes the DS-160 visa application
· Required documents, such as police certificates and medical exams, are collected
3. Fiancé Visa Interview
· The foreign fiancé(e) attends a consular interview abroad
· A consular officer determines visa eligibility and screens for fraud or inadmissibility
4. Entry to the United States
· Upon K-1 visa approval, the foreign fiancé(e) may travel to the U.S.
· Marriage must occur within 90 days of entry
5. Adjustment of Status (Form I-485)
· After marriage, the foreign spouse may apply for a green card
· Includes biometrics, background checks, and an optional second interview
· Conditional green card issued if marriage is under 2 years old
Documents Needed for K-1 Visa Application
· Proof of U.S. citizenship (passport or birth certificate)
· Passport-style photos of both parties
· Proof of in-person meeting within 2 years
· Evidence of bona fide relationship (photos, messages, travel records)
· Police clearance for the fiancé(e)
· Medical examination results (for consulate)
· I-134 Affidavit of Support (U.S. citizen must meet income guidelines)
What Happens After Marriage?
After the couple marries within the 90-day timeframe, the foreign spouse must file for adjustment of status (Form I-485) to remain in the U.S. legally and become a lawful permanent resident.
Adjustment of Status Includes:
· Biometrics appointment
· Optional work/travel permits
· Interview with USCIS (typically 12–18 months after filing)
· Issuance of a 2-year conditional green card
Later, the couple must jointly file Form I-751 to remove conditions and receive a 10-year green card.
What If You Don't Marry Within 90 Days?
If the marriage does not take place within 90 days:
· Your Petitioner may need to file an I-130 Petition, increasing costs and extending wait times for your green card
· The K-1 visa holder must depart the U.S.
· The visa cannot be extended or transferred
· Remaining in the U.S. without adjustment of status could lead to unlawful presence and removal proceedings
How Veritas Immigration Law Can Help
At Veritas Immigration Law, P.A., we provide full-service assistance with:
· Preparing and filing Form I-129F
· K-1 consular interview preparation
· Adjustment of status after entry
· Waivers for inadmissibility (if needed)
· Removing conditions on residence
We take a high-touch, personalized approach to each case and are proud to help couples unite and build a future together in the United States.
