10 Steps Guide to Obtaining a USA K-1 Fiancee Visa in 2025

The USA K-1 Visa, also known as the Fiancé(e) Visa, allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the United States to get married. The process can seem overwhelming, but with proper guidance, you can navigate it successfully. Here is a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Before beginning the application process, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria:

1. One party must be a U.S. citizen.
2. Both parties must intend to marry within 90 days of the foreign fiancé(e)’s arrival in the U.S.
3. Both parties must have met in person within the past two years (unless exempted for cultural or religious reasons).
4. Both must be legally free to marry.

Step 2: File Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e))

The U.S. citizen must file Form I-129F with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This step establishes the relationship between the petitioner and the beneficiary.

Required Documents:

• Proof of U.S. citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate).
• Evidence of relationship (photos, correspondence, travel receipts, etc.).
• Written statements from both parties declaring their intent to marry.
• Proof of having met in person within the past two years.
• Passport picture for both the interested partners i.e. Fiancee and US Citizen.
• Police clearance certificate addressing prior charges (if any).
• Filing fee: $675 (as of 2025).

Once filed, USCIS will issue a receipt (Form I-797) to acknowledge the application.

Step 3: USCIS Review and Approval

USCIS will review the petition. This process can take several months. If additional evidence is required, USCIS will issue a Request for Evidence (RFE). Submit the requested documentation promptly to avoid delays.

Upon approval, USCIS forwards the petition to the National Visa Center (NVC).

Step 4: National Visa Center (NVC) Processing

The NVC assigns a case number and forwards the application to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the foreign fiancé(e)’s country. The beneficiary will receive instructions on scheduling the visa interview.

Documents to Gather:

• Valid passport.
• Birth certificate.
• Police clearance certificate from all countries where the beneficiary has lived for more than six months.
• Evidence of financial support (Form I-134, Affidavit of Support).
• Medical examination results from an US embassy approved physician.
• Two recent 2×2 passport-style photographs.
• Proof of relationship (letters, photos, travel documents).
• Fill form DS 160 (Online Non immigrant Visa Application)

Step 5: Medical Examination

The foreign fiancé(e) must undergo a medical examination by a physician authorized by the U.S. Embassy. The results will be submitted to the embassy as part of the visa application process.

Cost: Varies by country and physician.

Step 6: Attend the Visa Interview

The foreign fiancé(e) must attend the visa interview at the designated U.S. Embassy or Consulate. During the interview, the consular officer will ask questions to verify the authenticity of the relationship.

Important Tips:

• Dress professionally and bring all required documents.
• Be honest and prepared to answer questions about your relationship and future plans.

Step 7: Visa Approval and Issuance

If the consular officer approves the visa, the beneficiary will receive their passport with the K-1 Visa stamp. This visa is typically valid for six months, allowing the beneficiary to travel to the U.S.

Step 8: Travel to the United States

Once the visa is issued, the beneficiary can travel to the United States. Upon arrival, they must present their visa and supporting documents to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the port of entry.

Step 9: Marriage Within 90 Days

After entering the U.S., the couple must marry within 90 days. Failure to marry within this period will result in the beneficiary’s visa expiration, and they must leave the U.S.

Tip: You may contact Law Tycoon for expert guidance on how can you stay in USA if you fail to marry within 90 days period.

Step 10: Apply for Adjustment of Status

After marriage, the foreign spouse can apply for a green card (permanent residency) by filing Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).

Required Documents:

• Marriage certificate.
• Proof of financial support (updated Form I-864). This form is to be completed by US Citizen Spouse.
• Proof of lawful entry (I-94 arrival/departure record).
• Filing fee: $1440 (as of 2025).
• Government ID like Passport with K1 Visa.
• Medical examination (not needed if prior result is not expired yet)
• Passport size photos as per USCIS requirements.

The foreign spouse may also apply for:

• Employment Authorization Document (EAD) using Form I-765.
• Advance Parole (travel permit) using Form I-131.

Processing Timeline

• Form I-129F Approval: 6-9 months.
• Visa Interview and Issuance: 2-3 months after NVC processing.
• Adjustment of Status: 6-12 months after filing Form I-485.

Cost Overview

1. Form I-129F Filing Fee: $675.
2. Medical Examination: Varies by country. ( 28650Pesos for Philippines)
3. Visa Application Fee: $265.
4. Adjustment of Status Fee: $1,440.

Conclusion

Obtaining a K-1 Visa requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Law Tycoon is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and successful process. Contact us today for expert assistance in bringing your loved one to the United States and starting your journey together!