The K-1 Visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the United States so they can get married. Once the fiancé(e) enters the U.S. on this visa, the couple must marry within 90 days. After marriage, the foreign spouse can apply for a green card (permanent residency).
It is often called the “fiancé(e) visa” and is popular with couples in long-distance relationships who want to start their life together in the U.S.
The sponsor must be a U.S. citizen (green card holders cannot sponsor a fiancé(e) under K-1).
Both partners must be legally free to marry (single, divorced, or widowed).
The couple must have met in person at least once within the last two years (exceptions are possible for cultural or religious reasons).
The relationship must be genuine, and the couple must plan to marry within 90 days of the foreign fiancé(e) arriving in the U.S.
The U.S. citizen sponsor must show they can financially support their fiancé(e) according to income guidelines.
Allows couples to be together in the U.S. sooner compared to some spousal visa options.
After marriage, the foreign spouse can apply for a green card without leaving the U.S.
The fiancé(e) can also apply for work authorization after entering.
Children of the fiancé(e) under 21 may also come to the U.S. on K-2 visas.
Anna, a U.S. citizen, is engaged to Luis, who lives in Mexico. They met in person two years ago and stayed in touch. Anna petitions for a K-1 visa, Luis enters the U.S., and they marry within 90 days. After that, Luis applies for his green card and starts working legally.
David, a U.S. citizen, is engaged to Maria, from the Philippines. They met while David was working abroad. After receiving her K-1 visa, Maria joins David in California, and they marry in a small ceremony within three months.