K-1 Fiance(e) Visa
The K-1 visa lets the foreign fiance(e) of a U.S. citizen enter the United States to marry within 90 days of arrival. After the marriage, the foreign spouse applies to adjust status to lawful permanent resident. The process begins with the U.S. citizen filing a petition that proves a genuine intent to marry and a qualifying in-person relationship.
Who can use the K-1 visa
The petitioner must be a U.S. citizen, and both partners must be legally free to marry.
In most cases the couple must have met in person within the two years before filing, unless an exception applies.
The 90-day rule
After the fiance(e) enters on a K-1 visa, the couple must marry within 90 days.
If the marriage does not happen within that period, the fiance(e) is expected to depart the United States.
After the wedding
Once married, the foreign spouse files to adjust status to lawful permanent resident.
If the marriage is less than two years old at approval, the green card is conditional and requires a later petition to remove conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sources & Citations
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