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the_information_nexus/personal/k-1_visa.md
2025-06-30 06:38:11 +00:00

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Here is a **concise guide** to the **Fiancé(e) Visa (K-1) Process for U.S. Citizens**:
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## 🛂 **Overview**
The **K-1 visa** allows a **foreign fiancé(e)** of a **U.S. citizen** to enter the U.S. for the purpose of **marrying within 90 days**. After marriage, the foreign spouse may apply for a **Green Card**.
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## ✅ **Eligibility Requirements**
You may apply if:
* You are a **U.S. citizen**.
* You and your fiancé(e) **intend to marry within 90 days** of U.S. entry.
* You are **both legally free to marry**.
* You have **met in person** within the **past 2 years**, unless granted a waiver for cultural or hardship reasons.
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## 📝 **5-Step Process**
### **Step 1: Petition (USCIS)**
* File **Form I-129F** to petition for your fiancé(e).
* USCIS reviews, may request more info.
* If approved, the case is sent to the **National Visa Center (NVC)**.
### **Step 2: Visa Application (State Department)**
* NVC sends the approved petition to the **U.S. Embassy/Consulate** near your fiancé(e).
* Your fiancé(e) applies for the **K-1 visa** and attends an interview.
* If approved, the visa is valid for **6 months**, **single entry**.
### **Step 3: Entry (CBP)**
* Fiancé(e) travels to the U.S. and is inspected by **Customs and Border Protection (CBP)**.
* CBP makes the **final decision** to admit.
### **Step 4: Marriage**
* Must marry **within 90 days** of entry.
### **Step 5: Green Card (USCIS)**
* After marriage, spouse files **Form I-485** for **Adjustment of Status** (Green Card).
* Interview is usually required.
* If married **less than 2 years**, Green Card is **conditional** and valid for **2 years**.
* File **Form I-751** to remove conditions before it expires.
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## ⚠️ **Not Eligible for K-1 If**:
* Already married.
* Planning to marry **outside** the U.S.
* Fiancé(e) is already in the U.S. legally.
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## 🕒 **Processing Times**
* Times vary. Check [USCIS Processing Times](https://egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/).
* Select `I-129F Petition for Alien fiancé`
* Check your status [Case Status Online](https://egov.uscis.gov/)
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## 🔗 **More Info**
* [K-1 Visa Guide USCIS](https://www.uscis.gov/family/family-of-us-citizens/visas-for-fiancees-of-us-citizens)
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