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Fiance Visa or Form I-129F, Explained

Intended for U.S. Citizens to Sponsor Fiancé(e) for Marriage and Green Card

Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), initiates the process for a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the United States with the intention of getting married and obtaining permanent residency. This is the first step towards acquiring a K-1 visa (Fiancé(e) Visa).

Key Requirements for K-1 Visa Eligibility

The couple must have physically met in person within the last two years (exceptions exist).
Both partners must be legally eligible for marriage in the United States.

Timeline and Associated Forms

Processing times for the K-1 visa can range between 1-2 years, depending on the workload at the embassy or consulate handling the application. Here's a general overview of the multi-step process with connected forms:

Step 1: U.S. Citizen Files Form I-129F

The U.S. citizen (petitioner) submits Form I-129F to USCIS. The current filing fee is $675. You can find the form and instructions on the USCIS website (https://www.uscis.gov/i-129f).

Step 2: Notice of Action (Form I-797C) is Received

After a few weeks, USCIS typically sends a Form I-797C, Notice of Action, acknowledging receipt of the application and indicating it's under review. The adjudication process can take anywhere from 8-10 months for approval or denial.

Step 3: Approval and Transfer to National Visa Center (NVC)

Upon approval by USCIS, the case is transferred to the NVC, a division of the U.S. Department of State. The NVC assigns a case number that should be carefully documented for future reference.
The NVC then forwards the application packet to the embassy in the foreign fiancé(e)'s home country.

Step 4: Foreign Fiancé(e) Applies for K-1 Visa (Form DS-160)

Once the application reaches the relevant embassy, the foreign fiancé(e) can complete Form DS-160 online to apply for the K-1 visa and pay the associated filing fee ($265). (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/forms/ds-160-online-nonimmigrant-visa-application.html)

Step 5: K-1 Visa Interview

When the case status shows "Ready," the foreign fiancé(e) can contact the local U.S. embassy to schedule a K-1 visa interview. This can only occur after completing Form DS-160, undergoing a medical examination, and settling the application fees. It's crucial to bring all necessary documentation to the interview to avoid delays. This includes the USCIS receipt number, the printed confirmation for the completed DS-160 application, and any other requested documents.

Navigating the K-1 visa process can be complex, involving USCIS regulations, multiple forms, and potential delays. Even minor errors in your application can lead to rejections and setbacks.

Need Help with the K-1 Visa Process?

Our K-1 Visa Processing Services Can Help

We offer comprehensive K-1 visa processing services to ensure a smooth and efficient experience for you and your fiancé(e). Our team of experienced immigration professionals will guide you through every step of the process, including:

Why Choose Nationality Express?

We offer comprehensive K-1 visa processing services to ensure a smooth and efficient experience for you and your fiancé(e). Our team of experienced immigration professionals will guide you through every step of the process, including:

Completing and filing Form I-129F accurately
Gathering and organizing required documentation
Addressing potential complications and avoiding delays
Preparing for the K-1 visa interview
Communicating effectively with USCIS and the National Visa Center (NVC)

Focus on Your Relationship, Let Us Handle the Paperwork

By utilizing our services, you can focus on planning your future together while we ensure your K-1 visa application meets all legal requirements. Click here to learn more about how we can streamline your K-1 visa journey.

Focus on Your Relationship, Let Us Handle the Paperwork

By utilizing our services, you can focus on planning your future together while we ensure your K-1 visa application meets all legal requirements. Contact us today for a consultation to learn more about how we can streamline your K-1 visa journey.

Step 6: Visa Issued and Entry into the United States

If the visa is granted, the foreign fiancé(e) will receive a visa stamp in their passport, allowing them to enter the United States within four months of issuance. Remember, this is a temporary visa, so entry must occur before it expires.

Step 7: Marriage Within 90 Days of Entry

The couple has 90 days to get married after the foreign fiancé(e) enters the United States. The K-1 visa status automatically terminates 90 days after entry and cannot be extended.

Let us do all the work, for a price 5 times less compared to Attorneys, with attorney review included*.

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* Nationality Express offers plans where an independent U.S. Immigration Attorney review and consultation is included for free.

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