Last updated: November 2026
What is the K-1 fiancé(e) visa?
Requirements
| Requirement | What it means |
|---|---|
| U.S. citizen sponsor | Only a U.S. citizen can file. Green card holders cannot use the K-1. |
| Legally able to marry | Both people must be legally able to marry. Earlier marriages must have ended. |
| Met in person | The couple generally must have met in person at least once in the two years before filing. Limited exceptions exist for extreme hardship or customs. |
| Genuine intent to marry | Both must intend to marry within 90 days of the fiancé(e)'s arrival. |
| Financial support | The sponsor must show enough income to support the fiancé(e) under the affidavit of support rules. |
How the process works
- The U.S. citizen files Form I-129F with USCIS, with proof of the relationship and the in-person meeting.
- After approval, the case moves to the National Visa Center and then a U.S. consulate.
- Medical exam and visa interview at the consulate.
- The fiancé(e) travels to the U.S. and the couple marries within 90 days.
- After the wedding, the spouse applies to adjust status to a green card.
- Work permission can be requested after arrival.
K-1 or spouse visa?
The K-1 is for couples who are not yet married: you marry in the U.S. after arrival. If you are already married, the CR-1/IR-1 spouse visa is the usual route. Which is better depends on your plans, so compare them before filing.
Frequently asked questions
Who can sponsor a K-1 visa?
Only a U.S. citizen. A green card holder cannot sponsor a fiancé(e) for a K-1.
Do we have to marry in the U.S.?
Yes. The K-1 requires marriage within 90 days of the fiancé(e)'s arrival in the U.S.
What if we do not marry within 90 days?
The fiancé(e) must leave the U.S. The K-1 status cannot be changed to another category if the couple does not marry.
Do we need to have met in person?
Generally yes, at least once within two years before filing, unless a limited exception applies.
Can my fiancé(e)'s children come?
Unmarried children under 21 can usually accompany on a K-2 visa.
Can same-sex couples use the K-1?
Yes. The rules are the same for same-sex couples.
Can my fiancé(e) work after arriving?
Work permission can be requested after arrival. Rules and timing should be checked at that stage.
Is approval guaranteed?
No. Each case is decided on its own facts and evidence, and no consultant or attorney can guarantee approval.
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