The K-1 visa, also known as the fiancé(e) visa, is a nonimmigrant visa that allows the fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States for the purpose of getting married. Here is an overview of the K-1 visa application process:
- Petition Filing:
- The U.S. citizen must file a Petition for Alien Fiancé(e) (Form I-129F) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- The petition should include supporting documents, such as proof of the relationship, evidence of meeting in person within the last two years, and any required fees.
- USCIS Processing:
- USCIS will review the petition and may request additional evidence.
- Once approved, USCIS will forward the petition to the National Visa Center (NVC).
- NVC Processing:
- The NVC will assign a case number and forward the petition to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the fiancé(e)’s home country.
- The NVC will also provide instructions on how to pay the visa application fee.
- Visa Application:
- The fiancé(e) must complete a visa application and attend a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- Medical examinations and vaccinations are typically required.
- Security Clearance and Administrative Processing:
- Background checks and security clearances will be conducted.
- Some cases may undergo administrative processing, which can cause delays.
- Visa Issuance:
- If approved, the K-1 visa will be issued, allowing the fiancé(e) to travel to the U.S.
- Entry to the U.S.:
- Once in the U.S., the couple must marry within 90 days of the fiancé(e) entering the country.
- Adjustment of Status:
- After marriage, the foreign spouse can apply for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) to become a permanent resident.
Form I-129F instructions
Form I-129F is the Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), and it is a crucial part of the K-1 visa application process. Here are general Form I-129F instructions for completing Form I-129F:
- Download the Form:
- Obtain the latest version of Form I-129F from the official website of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Read the Instructions:
- Before filling out the form, carefully read the accompanying instructions provided by USCIS. The instructions provide important guidance on completing each section of the form.
- Personal Information:
- Provide accurate and complete personal information for both the U.S. citizen petitioner and the foreign fiancé(e).
- Marital History:
- Include details about the petitioner’s and beneficiary’s marital history, including previous marriages and divorces.
- Meeting Requirements:
- Demonstrate that the petitioner and beneficiary have met in person at least once within the two years before filing the petition. Include evidence of the meeting, such as photographs, travel itineraries, or other supporting documents.
- Intent to Marry:
- Confirm the intention of both parties to marry within 90 days of the foreign fiancé(e) entering the United States.
- Children:
- If the fiancé(e) has children, include their information on the form.
- Additional Supporting Documents:
- Attach any required supporting documents, such as proof of the petitioner’s U.S. citizenship, evidence of a genuine relationship, and any other supporting materials mentioned in the instructions.
- Filing Fee:
- Pay the required filing fee. Check the USCIS website for the most up-to-date fee information.
- Sign and Date:
- Both the petitioner and the preparer (if applicable) must sign and date the form.
- Check for Accuracy:
- Double-check all information provided on the form for accuracy and completeness before submission.
- Mail the Petition:
- Mail the completed and signed Form I-129F along with all required supporting documents and the filing fee to the address specified in the instructions.
- Receipt Notice:
- After USCIS receives the petition, they will issue a receipt notice. Keep this notice for your records, as it contains important information for tracking the status of the petition.
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