Family Immigration Services
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Bringing Your Partner to the United States
For couples separated by international borders, the K-1 visa represents both a legal pathway and a meaningful personal milestone. Our firm provides dedicated support throughout the entire process — from the initial eligibility assessment to the final green card approval.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the K-1 visa:
- The petitioner must be a U.S. citizen (not a lawful permanent resident).
- Both parties must be legally free to marry — any prior marriages must have been terminated by divorce, annulment, or death.
- The couple must have met in person at least once within the two years preceding the filing of the petition (exceptions exist for extreme hardship or cultural practices).
- The couple must have a genuine intent to marry within 90 days of the fiancé’s entry into the United States.
The K-1 Petition and Process
The K-1 process begins with the U.S. citizen filing Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), with USCIS. Supporting documentation typically includes proof of U.S. citizenship, evidence of the genuine relationship (photographs, communication records, travel records showing the in-person meeting, affidavits), and termination of any prior marriages.
Once the I-129F is approved, the file is forwarded to the National Visa Center and then to the U.S. embassy or consulate in the fiancé’s home country for a visa interview. Upon approval and entry into the United States, the fiancé must marry the U.S. citizen petitioner within 90 days. After marriage, the foreign national may apply for adjustment of status to obtain a green card.
K-2 Status for Children
Unmarried children under 21 of the K-1 beneficiary may accompany or follow to join the K-1 holder under K-2 status, allowing the family to enter and remain in the United States together during the marriage and adjustment process.
Common Challenges
K-1 petitions can face challenges related to the genuineness of the relationship, the sufficiency of the in-person meeting requirement, prior immigration violations of the fiancé, and financial sponsorship concerns. Our attorneys work carefully with each couple to present the strongest possible case and to address any issues before they become grounds for denial.
