FIANCé VISA PROCESS

For nearly 20 years, Snable Stevenson & Silva's Immigration Advocacy Law practice group has assisted applicants in applying to bring their fiancés to the U.S.  through the fiancé visa process. The fiancé visa process allows foreign nationals to come to the U.S. to marry U.S. citizens and then apply for Adjustment of Status and become Lawful Permanent Residents.

The U.S. fiancé visa, officially known as the K-1 visa, is a nonimmigrant visa that allows a foreign fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States for the purpose of getting married within 90 days of arrival. The K-1 visa process involves several steps and requires the participation of both the U.S. citizen petitioner and the foreign fiancé(e).

1. Petition Filing

The U.S. citizen petitioner begins the process by filing a Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The petitioner must provide evidence of their U.S. citizenship, proof of the genuine relationship with their fiancé(e), and other supporting documents as required.

2. USCIS Processing

Once the I-129F petition is received by USCIS, it undergoes review and adjudication. USCIS may request additional documentation or evidence to establish the bona fide nature of the relationship. If the petition is approved, USCIS notifies the petitioner and forwards the approved petition to the U.S. Department of State's National Visa Center (NVC) for further processing.

3. Visa Application

Upon receiving the approved petition, the NVC assigns a case number and forwards the case to the U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where the foreign fiancé(e) resides. The foreign fiancé(e) is then instructed to complete a visa application (Form DS-160) and gather necessary documents, including a valid passport, police clearance certificates, and medical examination results.

4. Interview and Medical Examination

The foreign fiancé(e) must attend a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate. During the interview, they may be asked about their relationship, marriage plans, and other relevant details. Additionally, the foreign fiancé(e) is required to undergo a medical examination conducted by a designated physician to ensure they meet health requirements.

5. Visa Issuance

If the consular officer approves the K-1 visa application, the foreign fiancé(e) is issued a K-1 visa in their passport. The visa allows them to travel to the United States and get married to their U.S. citizen petitioner within 90 days of entry.

6. Entry to the United States and Marriage

Once the foreign fiancé(e) enters the United States on the K-1 visa, they have 90 days to marry the U.S. citizen petitioner. It is important to note that the K-1 visa does not allow the foreign fiancé(e) to work in the United States until they obtain a work permit through the adjustment of status process.

7. Adjustment of Status (Green Card Application)

After the marriage takes place, the foreign spouse can apply for lawful permanent residence (green card) by filing an application for adjustment of status (Form I-485, Application to Adjust Status) with USCIS. This process involves submitting additional forms, supporting documents, and attending a biometrics appointment and an interview. If approved, the foreign spouse receives a conditional green card, which is valid for two years.

It is crucial to understand that the fiancé visa process can be complex and lengthy, and it is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or seek professional assistance to navigate through the requirements and ensure a smooth application process.

Snable Stevenson & Silva Can Guide You Through The Fiancé Visa Process

As it is with other areas of U.S. immigration law, navigating the fiancé visa process can be overwhelming and confusing. Our experienced team of immigration lawyers at Snable Stevenson & Silva will guide you through the process every step of the way, ensuring that you are on the right track to bringing your loved one to the U.S. to marry. We provide comprehensive legal assistance, including assessing eligibility, filling out and submitting the necessary forms and related evidence, responding to any government requests for evidence or any eligibility questions, preparing you for USCIS and consulate interviews, and attending adjustment of status interviews at the USCIS office.

Contact Snable Stevenson & Silva today to schedule a free consultation with an immigration lawyer and get started on your fiancé application.

Contact our Immigration Lawyers Today for Legal Help

Do you want to bring your family member to the U.S. to live? Is your family member currently in the U.S. and you want to find a way for them to lawfully stay? Have you met someone abroad and you wish to marry and live together in the U.S.? Contact Snable Stevenson & Silva for immediate legal assistance and immigration law advice. Our qualified immigration lawyers can help you determine the best course of legal action and help you to achieve your goals.

We offer a free case evaluation and consultation. Contact our immigration law office today to schedule your free appointment with an immigration lawyer.