Requirements for a Fiancee Visa (K-1) | K1 Fiance Visa
Welcome to Filipina Fiancee Visa! Are you planning to bring your fiancée to the United States? Let us help you navigate the process of obtaining a K-1 fiancée visa efficiently and successfully.
What is a K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa?
The K-1 fiancé(e) visa allows a foreign fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to travel to the United States and marry their sponsor within 90 days of arrival. This visa is specifically designed for couples who intend to build their lives together in the U.S.
K-1 Visa Requirements.
To qualify for a K-1 visa, you and your fiancé(e) must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship: Only U.S. citizens can petition for a K-1 visa. Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) are not eligible.
- Legal Ability to Marry: Both individuals must be legally free to marry. If previously married, you must provide official documentation proving that any previous marriage has ended (e.g., divorce decrees, annulments, or death certificates).
- In-Person Meeting: The couple must have met in person at least once within the past two years. Virtual meetings via Skype or other online platforms do not count. Acceptable proof includes photos together and passport stamps.
- Intent to Marry: Both parties must have a genuine intent to marry within 90 days of the foreign fiancé(e)’s arrival in the U.S.
- Financial Stability: The U.S. citizen petitioner must meet the financial requirements, typically proving an income of at least 100% of the federal poverty level.
- Good Moral Character: Both the U.S. petitioner and the foreign fiancé(e) must meet certain character requirements. While some past arrests or convictions may be overlooked, serious criminal records or immigration violations may disqualify an applicant.
- Medical Examination: The foreign fiancé(e) must pass a medical examination at a clinic approved by the U.S. Consulate. This exam ensures they do not have communicable diseases or severe mental health issues.
- Parental Consent (For Filipino Applicants): If the foreign fiancé(e) is between 18-21 years old, notarized parental consent from at least one parent is required. If they are between 22-25 years old, notarized evidence of parental advice is needed.
- Valid Passport: The foreign fiancé(e) must have a valid international passport at the time of the visa interview, though it is not required to file the initial petition.
After the K-1 Visa is Issued
Once approved, the K-1 visa is valid for a maximum of five months (or less in some cases). Upon entering the U.S., the foreign fiancé(e) must marry the U.S. petitioner within 90 days. There are no extensions to this deadline. If the marriage does not occur within this period and the foreign fiancé(e) remains in the U.S., they may face deportation.
Should You Hire a Lawyer for Your Fiancé(e) Visa?
There is no legal requirement to hire an attorney to file a K-1 visa petition. Many law firms charge excessive fees and may make the process seem unnecessarily complicated. With the right guidance, you can successfully complete the process on your own without incurring the high costs of legal representation.
We are here to help you through the process and ensure a smooth journey for you and your fiancé(e). If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us!
Disclaimer: Filipina Fiancée Visa Service is an independent service provider and is not affiliated with any government agency. While we offer comprehensive assistance to help you obtain your visa and/or green card, we do not provide legal services, legal advice, or legal representation of any kind. Filipina Fiancée Visa Service is not a law firm and is not licensed to practice law in any jurisdiction. Neither Filipina Fiancée Visa Service nor its employees claim to have specialized knowledge of immigration law or provide legal counsel.
We are here to help you through the process and ensure a smooth journey for you and your fiancé(e). If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us!