How Can I Bring My Fiancé to the U.S. on a K-1 Visa?
Everything You Need to Know to Start Your Life Together with the One You Love
What Is the K-1 Fiancé Visa?
The K-1 fiancé(e) visa allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé to the United States so the couple can marry within 90 days of the fiancé’s arrival. Once married, the foreign spouse may apply for a green card through adjustment of status.
In 2025, the Trump administration has implemented stricter document review and background checks for K-1 applicants, requiring couples to be prepared for increased scrutiny at both the USCIS and consular stages.
Benefits of a K-1 Visa
Allows your fiancé to enter the U.S. legally for the purpose of marriage.
Provides a direct path to applying for permanent residency after marriage.
Your fiancé may apply for a work permit after arrival.
Children under 21 of the foreign fiancé may also be included under K-2 visas.
Who Can Apply for a K-1 Visa?
You may petition for a K-1 visa if:
You are a U.S. citizen (permanent residents cannot file for a fiancé visa).
You and your fiancé are both legally free to marry (single, divorced, or widowed).
You and your fiancé have met in person at least once within the past two years (limited exceptions apply).
You can show a genuine relationship and a good-faith intention to marry within 90 days of arrival.
Required Evidence
To strengthen your petition, USCIS looks for:
Proof of U.S. citizenship: birth certificate, U.S. passport, or naturalization certificate.
Evidence of meeting in person: flight itineraries, hotel receipts, photos together, passport stamps.
Proof of ongoing relationship: emails, texts, call logs, social media screenshots, engagement announcements.
Statements of intent to marry: signed and dated by both you and your fiancé.
Evidence of wedding planning: venue reservations, invitations, or receipts.
Process & Forms
File Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé) with USCIS, including supporting evidence and the filing fee.
USCIS review: May request additional evidence.
Approval: Case is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) and then to the U.S. embassy or consulate where your fiancé lives.
Consular interview: Your fiancé attends an interview and provides required medical and police clearances.
Visa issuance: If approved, your fiancé enters the U.S. and you must marry within 90 days.
Adjustment of status: File for a green card after the marriage.
Limitations & Risks
If you fail to marry within 90 days, your fiancé must leave the U.S. or risk removal.
Overstaying or marrying someone else after entering on a K-1 visa can create legal complications.
Prior immigration violations or criminal records may require additional waivers.
2025 Policy Updates
Under new guidance:
Stricter relationship evidence requirements to prevent fraud.
Increased background and security checks at the consular stage.
More in-depth questioning during the visa interview.
How We Can Help
The K-1 visa process can be both exciting and stressful. A well-prepared, evidence-rich petition is key to avoiding delays or denials.
📞 Call J. Molina Immigration Law LLC at 860-474-3705 to schedule a consultation and ensure your fiancé petition is as strong as your relationship.