Overview
The K-1 Fiancé(e) visa allows foreign fiancé(e)s of U.S. citizens to enter the U.S. for 90 days to marry their sponsor and file for permanent residence. For individuals already married abroad, the K-3 spousal visa provides a temporary nonimmigrant entry mechanism while immigrant petitions remain pending.
Requirements
A U.S. citizen sponsor
For a K-1 visa, the sponsoring partner must be a U.S. citizen. Both partners must be legally free to marry and present evidence establishing a genuine, bona fide romantic relationship.
Having met in person
The couple must demonstrate that they have met in person at least once within the two years prior to filing Form I-129F, unless extreme hardship or strict religious or cultural customs prevented a physical meeting.
Marriage within 90 days
Upon visa approval and entry into the U.S., the foreign fiancé(e) must marry the sponsoring U.S. citizen within 90 days and apply for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485).
Key benefits
- Permits foreign partners to enter the United States to marry and plan their wedding with family.
- Minor unmarried children of the foreign fiancé(e) can accompany them under derivative K-2 visas.
- Provides a structured, legal bridge from engagement to Lawful Permanent Resident status inside the U.S.
- Enables immediate employment authorization applications alongside green card processing post-marriage.