№ 01 — fiancé(e) visa (k-1)

Love deserves a clear path forward.

The K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the United States so the couple can marry within 90 days of arrival.

From preparing the petition to navigating the consular process, GWP Immigration Law helps couples move through every stage with confidence, clarity, and careful legal guidance.

Call (702) 737-7717

№ 02 — how the k-1 visa works

From engagement to a new beginning.

The K-1 Visa is a temporary nonimmigrant visa that allows a foreign fiancé(e) to enter the United States for the purpose of marrying a U.S. citizen.

Once the marriage takes place within 90 days, the foreign spouse may become eligible to apply for permanent residence through Adjustment of Status.

Important to know

If the marriage does not occur during the authorized 90-day period, the foreign fiancé(e) is generally required to leave the United States.

№ 03 — the process

The journey, step by step.

Six stages carry a couple from the first petition to permanent residence — and we walk each one with you.

Petition filed

The U.S. citizen files Form I-129F with evidence supporting the relationship.

USCIS review

The government reviews the petition before forwarding it to the National Visa Center.

III

Consular processing

The case transfers to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for documents and an interview.

Visa issued

If approved, the fiancé(e) receives the K-1 Visa and may travel to the United States.

Marriage

The couple must marry within 90 days of arrival.

Adjustment of Status

After marriage, the new spouse may apply for lawful permanent residence.

№ 04 — basic eligibility

Who may qualify?

U.S. Citizen Petitioner

The petitioner must be a United States citizen.

Genuine Relationship

The couple must intend to marry and establish a life together.

Recent Meeting

In most situations, the couple must have met in person at least once during the two years before filing the petition, unless a legal exception applies.

Supporting Documentation

The relationship must be documented with evidence required by USCIS.

Eligibility depends on each couple’s individual circumstances and immigration history.

№ 05 — how we help

Helping couples begin the next chapter together.

Successful K-1 petitions require careful preparation, complete documentation, and attention to detail. Here is what we handle with you.

Evaluate whether the K-1 Visa is the right option.

Prepare Form I-129F and supporting documentation.

Organize evidence demonstrating a genuine relationship.

Guide you through National Visa Center and consular processing.

Prepare you for the visa interview.

Continue assisting after marriage with Adjustment of Status when appropriate.

№ 06 — frequently asked questions

Questions we hear often.

How long does the K-1 Visa process usually take?

Processing times depend on USCIS workloads, the specific consulate, and each couple’s circumstances, so timelines vary and can change. We cannot promise a particular timeframe, but we prepare complete, well-documented petitions to help avoid the delays that incomplete filings often cause.

Do we have to marry within 90 days?

Yes. The K-1 Visa authorizes the foreign fiancé(e) to enter the United States specifically to marry the petitioning U.S. citizen, and the marriage must take place within 90 days of arrival. If the marriage does not occur in that window, the fiancé(e) is generally required to leave the country.

Can my fiancé(e) work immediately after arriving?

Not automatically. A K-1 entrant may apply for employment authorization, but many couples find it more practical to obtain work authorization as part of the Adjustment of Status process after marriage. We advise on the most sensible approach for your situation.

What happens after we get married?

Once married within the 90-day period, the foreign spouse may generally apply for lawful permanent residence through Adjustment of Status. This is the stage where the temporary K-1 status transitions toward a green card, and we continue assisting you through it.

Can permanent residents petition for a K-1 Visa?

No. The K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa is available only to petitioners who are U.S. citizens. Lawful permanent residents cannot file a K-1 petition, though other family immigration options may apply after marriage — we can walk you through those alternatives.

What if we've been unable to meet in person recently?

The law generally requires that the couple met in person within the two years before filing. In limited circumstances a waiver may be available — for example, where meeting would violate long-established cultural practice or cause extreme hardship. Whether an exception applies depends on your facts, which we review carefully.

The next step, together —

Every lasting journey begins with one decision.

Starting your life together should be exciting — not overwhelming. Whether you’re just beginning the K-1 Visa process or ready to prepare your petition, we’ll help you understand your options and move forward with confidence.

Or call (702) 737-7717