Glendale K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Lawyer
Serving Clients Nationwide
The K-1 visa is designed to allow a foreign fiancé(e) to travel to the United States to marry their U.S. citizen fiancé(e) and to apply for permanent residence. The K-1 visa holder will then have to adjust their status to obtain a green card.
Our experienced immigration team at Kostanyan Law in Glendale has a proven track record in facilitating K-1 visa applications. We are committed to supporting you and your partner through every step, ensuring a smooth journey to the U.S. for your union.
Join the many couples we've guided to a new life together. Reach out to our Glendale K-1 visa attorneys at Kostanyan Law by calling (818) 201-2636 or by submitting our online form. We offer services in Armenian and Russian.
Step-by-Step Process to the K-1 Visa Application
The U.S. K-1 visa, often called the "Fiancé(e) Visa," is designed for foreign nationals who are engaged to U.S. citizens and plan to marry in the United States. This visa allows the foreign fiancé(e) to enter the U.S. for the purpose of getting married to their U.S. citizen petitioner. Here's how it works:
- U.S. Citizen Petition: The process begins with the U.S. citizen filing a petition (Form I-129F) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to establish the qualifying relationship and intention to marry.
- Complete Form DS-160: After USCIS approves the I-129F fiancé sponsorship form, the case transitions to the U.S. Department of State. Subsequently, the sponsored fiancé will be notified by the U.S. Embassy in their home country regarding their visa interview date, location, and the necessary document checklist.
The sponsored fiancé must then initiate the State Department's DS-160 online form, officially known as the "Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application." This serves as the formal K-1 visa application, a crucial step in the process. - Visa Interview: The visa interview is conducted at the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate located in the sponsored fiancé's home country. Generally, this interview occurs approximately 4–6 weeks after the initial notice from the embassy.
The interviewing officer will usually render a decision either on the same day of the interview or shortly thereafter. If any additional evidence is required, the officer will specify and request that it be promptly submitted directly to the U.S. consulate. - Arrival and Marriage: After meeting the necessary requirements and obtaining K-1 visa approval, the sponsored fiancé is granted a period of six months from the initial approval date of the I-129F form to enter the United States.
Once in the U.S., the couple must solemnize their marriage within 90 days. Failure to do so will result in the sponsored fiancé losing their K-1 visa status. In cases where the couple decides not to marry, the sponsored individual is obligated to depart from the United States immediately, as they will no longer be eligible to remain in the country.