K-1 Fiancé Visa Lawyer
IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY LAURA LEON
Love, they say, knows no borders. Yet for many couples, the immigration process can make it feel like there are miles of barriers in between. If you are a U.S. citizen engaged to someone abroad, the K-1 visa may be the first step toward starting your life together in the United States. This visa allows your fiancé to come to the U.S. so you can marry within 90 days of arrival. A K-1 visa lawyer can help you manage the K-1 visa application process smoothly.
If you’ve started researching the K-1 visa application, you’ve probably already seen how many forms, fees, interviews, timelines, and wait periods are involved. Not knowing how to handle this process, or trying to do everything alone, can quickly turn what should be an exciting time into a stressful one. That’s where Laura Leon Law, PLLC steps in. We help couples through every single step of the K-1 visa application so they can rest assured that their process is as simple and stress-free as possible.
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What is a K-1 Fiancé Visa?
The K-1 visa, also known as the fiancé visa, allows the foreign fiancé of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States for marriage. Once approved, you and your fiancé must get married within 90 days of your arrival. This visa is only available to U.S. citizens (not permanent residents). After the marriage, the K-1 visa opens a pathway for permanent residency, as the foreign spouse can then apply for a green card through adjustment of status.
It’s important to note that the K-1 visa application and processes are not mere formalities. They are the government’s way of confirming that your relationship is genuine, and not entered into for immigration purposes. As such, the process should be approached with utmost seriousness and priority.
What Documents Are Needed for a Fiancé Visa?
When filing your K-1 visa application, several documents are required to prove your relationship and eligibility, such as:
- Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)
- Proof of the sponsor’s U.S. citizenship (birth certificate or passport)
- Evidence of your relationship (photos, messages, travel records)
- Proof you’ve met in person within the last two years (photos, flight tickets, hotel receipts) or proof that you’re exempt from this requirement for cultural or extreme hardship reasons
- Intent to marry within 90 days of arrival
- Financial documents (Form I-134, Affidavit of Support)
- Passport-style photos for both partners
Providing complete and accurate documentation can make the process smoother and reduce the chances of requests for more evidence.
What Is the K-1 Visa Timeline?
The K-1 visa timeline has several steps, and both the U.S. citizen and the foreign fiancé must be involved.
Step 1: File Form I-129F
The U.S. citizen submits Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé, to USCIS and pays the relevant K-1 visa cost. This starts the K-1 visa application. Applicants should note that an I-129F cannot be filed abroad, but from inside the U.S.
Step 2: USCIS Review
USCIS checks the petition. If approved, it is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC).
Step 3: National Visa Center (NVC) Processing
The NVC puts a case number to the petition and forwards it to the U.S. embassy or consulate where the fiancé lives.
Step 4: Embassy or Consulate Interview
Your fiancé attends the K-1 visa interview and submits all necessary documents.
Step 5: Visa Approval and Travel
If approved, the K-1 visa is issued. Your fiancé must travel to the U.S. within six months.
Step 6: Marriage Within 90 Days
Once your fiancé arrives, you must marry within 90 days.
Step 7: Adjustment of Status
After marriage, your K-1 visa lawyer will submit an adjustment of status application to officially obtain your fiancé’s green card.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Fiancé Visa?
The K-1 visa timeline varies depending on factors such as visa backlogs, background checks, and country of origin. On average, it takes 10–16 months from start to finish.
Here’s a general breakdown:
- Petition Filing (Form I-129F): 6–10 months
- USCIS Approval and Case Transfer to National Visa Center (NVC) Processing: 1–2 months
- Consulate Interview and Visa Issuance: 1–3 months
And then the adjustment of status processing. By ensuring that all forms and documents are submitted correctly and on time, a K-1 visa lawyer can help prevent mistakes that could lead to unnecessary delays.
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What Happens at the K-1 Visa Interview?
The K-1 visa interview is one of the final and most important steps. Your fiancé will meet with a consular officer who’ll ask questions about your relationship to confirm it’s genuine. Common K-1 visa interview questions include:
- How did you meet your fiancé?
- When and where was your last visit?
- What are your wedding plans?
- Have you met each other’s families?
- Have either of you been married before?
Why Choose Laura Leon Law as your K-1 Visa Lawyer?
We know that immigration matters can be stressful, time-consuming, and frustrating. Our goal is to ensure you get a smooth process and not fear rejection or delays. From document organization to interview guidance and preparation, we help you every step of the way.
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Start Your K-1 Visa Application
If you’re ready to start your K-1 visa application, don’t wait until a mistake slows you down. Laura Leon Law PLLC is here to guide you and your fiancé every step of the way.
Love shouldn’t be delayed or separated; reach out today, and let’s assist in bringing your partner home.
