K-1 Fiancée Visa Guide
Planning to bring your international fiancée to the United States? Here's what you need to know about the K-1 visa process.
Important Disclosure
Findmate is a self-service dating platform, not an International Marriage Broker. We do not arrange marriages, provide matchmaking services, or charge fees for introductions. All connections are made directly between members. We provide this K-1 visa information for educational purposes only and are not immigration attorneys. For legal advice, consult a qualified immigration lawyer. This information is provided under IMBRA (International Marriage Broker Regulation Act) compliance guidelines.
What is a K-1 Visa?
The K-1 visa, also known as the Fiancé(e) Visa, allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the United States for the purpose of getting married.
Once in the U.S., you must marry within 90 days. After marriage, your spouse can apply for adjustment of status to become a permanent resident (green card).
Key requirement: You must have met in person at least once within the two years before filing the petition.
Quick Facts
- For U.S. citizens only
- Must marry within 90 days
- Must have met in person
- Processing: 12-18 months
- Cost: ~$2,000+ in fees
K-1 Visa Steps
File I-129F Petition
U.S. citizen files Form I-129F with USCIS, along with evidence of relationship and proof of meeting in person.
USCIS Processing
USCIS reviews petition and supporting documents. Currently takes 6-10 months on average.
National Visa Center
Approved petition goes to NVC for processing and forwarding to the appropriate U.S. Embassy.
Embassy Interview
Your fiancée attends an interview at the U.S. Embassy in their country with all required documents.
Visa Issuance
If approved, K-1 visa is issued. Valid for single entry within 6 months of issuance.
Entry & Marriage
Fiancée enters U.S. and you must marry within 90 days. Then file for Adjustment of Status.
What You'll Need
Proof of Meeting
Photos together, passport stamps, flight records, hotel receipts — evidence you've met in person within the last 2 years.
Relationship Evidence
Chat logs, call records, photos, gifts — documentation showing your genuine relationship over time.
Financial Support
Affidavit of Support (I-134) showing you can financially support your fiancée. Generally 125% of poverty line.
Background Check
Both parties undergo background checks. Criminal history may affect eligibility.
Medical Exam
Your fiancée must complete a medical examination by an approved physician before the visa interview.
Intent to Marry
Genuine intent to marry within 90 days of entry. Fraudulent marriages have serious legal consequences.
How Long Does It Take?
Typical Timeline: 12-18 Months
I-129F Petition processing (6-10 months) → National Visa Center (1-2 months) → Embassy interview scheduling (2-4 months) → Visa issuance → Entry to U.S. → Marriage within 90 days → Adjustment of Status application.
Common Questions
Legal Disclaimer
This information is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration law is complex and changes frequently. For your specific situation, consult with a licensed immigration attorney. Findmate is a dating platform and does not provide immigration services, legal advice, or matchmaking services as defined by IMBRA.
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