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How to Get a K-1 Fiancé Visa: Process From I-129F to U.S. Arrival

K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

The K-1 visa, also called the fiancé(e) visa, allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the United States for marriage. Once admitted, the couple must marry within 90 days, and the foreign spouse may then apply for adjustment of status to permanent residence. Below is a clear outline of the process and fees.

Understanding the K-1 visa process is key to avoiding delays and getting approved on the first try.

Step 1: Preparation and Filing of USCIS Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e))

The first step in the K-1 visa process is filing Form I-129F with USCIS to prove your relationship and begin the petition for your fiancé(e).

Who files: The U.S. citizen petitioner.

What’s included:

  • Completed and signed Form I-129F
  • Evidence of U.S. citizenship (passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate)
  • Proof of a bona fide relationship (photos, travel records, communications, affidavits)
  • Proof the couple has met in person within two years (unless exempted)
  • Filing fee payment

Filing fee: $675 (USCIS)
Where filed: USCIS lockbox facility
Timeline: 6–12 months average for USCIS adjudication

Step 2: USCIS Review and Approval (NOA1 → NOA2)

After filing, USCIS begins its review of the petition and communicates progress through official notices.

  • USCIS issues a Receipt Notice (NOA1) upon acceptance.
  • If approved, USCIS issues the Approval Notice (NOA2).
  • If denied, the petitioner may appeal.

Step 3: Case Transfer to the National Visa Center (NVC)

Once approved by USCIS, the case is transferred to the National Visa Center for coordination with the U.S. embassy.

  • Approved petitions are sent to the NVC.
  • NVC assigns a case number and forwards the case to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
  • No separate NVC fee for K-1 petitions.

Step 4: Consular Processing

Your fiancé(e) must apply for the K-1 visa in their country and attend an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.

Required documents:

  • Valid passport
  • Birth certificate
  • Police clearance certificates (since age 16)
  • Divorce decrees (if previously married)
  • Medical exam results from a panel physician
  • Two U.S.-passport-style photos

Medical exam fee: approx. $200–$400 (varies by country)
Consular interview: Required, focuses on proving the relationship

Step 5: K-1 Visa Issuance and Entry to the U.S.

If approved at the interview, the fiancé(e) receives their K-1 visa and may travel to the United States.

  • If approved, the fiancé(e) receives the K-1 visa in their passport
  • Must enter the U.S. within 6 months of visa issuance
  • At entry, CBP admits them as a K-1 nonimmigrant

Step 6: Marriage Within 90 Days

Once in the U.S., the couple is legally required to marry within 90 days of the fiancé(e)’s arrival.

  • The couple must legally marry within 90 days of arrival
  • Failure to marry leads to loss of legal status and possible removal

Step 7: Adjustment of Status (Green Card Application)

After marriage, the foreign spouse must apply for lawful permanent residence through USCIS.

  • After marriage, apply for permanent residence (green card)
  • Forms filed: I-485, I-765, I-131 (optional)
  • Filing fee: $1,440 (includes biometrics)
  • Processing time: 12–24 months depending on USCIS location

Summary of Government Filing Fees (as of 2025)

  • I-129F (Petition): $675
  • DS-160/K-1 visa fee: $265
  • Medical exam: approx. $200–$400
  • Adjustment of Status: $1,440

Total expected costs: approx. $2,580–$2,780 (plus legal and translation fees)

Why Choose the K-1 Visa Over a Spouse Visa?

The K-1 visa is often more favorable for long-distance couples. It is faster, easier to document, and less likely to raise red flags at the U.S. Consulate compared to spousal visas when the couple has spent significant time apart.

Many couples choose the K-1 visa process over a spousal visa due to faster timelines and fewer red flags.

Work with an Immigration Attorney

Given current immigration enforcement and processing policies, working with an experienced immigration attorney is highly recommended. Contact Shepelsky Law Group today to start your K-1 fiancé(e) visa process and bring your partner to the United States.