The K-1 visa, often known as the fiancé(e) visa, is designed for individuals wishing to enter the country to marry an engaged U.S. citizen. However, not everyone is eligible to apply for this visa. In this article, we’ll explore the eligibility criteria for the K-1 visa and who can apply.
Understanding the K-1 Visa
- The K-1 visa allows foreign nationals engaged in marrying a US citizen to enter the US for up to 90 days.
- The couple must marry within the allotted period following their arrival in the United States. After changing their status, the foreign fiancé(e) can then apply for a green card, which is legal permanent residency.
Eligibility Requirements for the K-1 Visa
Listed here are the eligibility requirements for the fiancé(e) visa.
1. Both Parties Must Be Eligible to Marry
- The petitioner (a U.S. citizen) and beneficiary (a foreign fiancé(e)) must both be legally eligible to marry under the laws of the United States and any foreign country involved.
2. Intention to Marry
- The couple must genuinely intend to marry within 90 days of the beneficiary’s arrival in the United States.
3. In-Person Meeting Requirement
- Unless meeting in person would be against cultural or religious conventions or would cause the petitioner great hardship, the pair must have met in person at least once in the two years before filing the K-1 visa petition.
4. U.S. Citizenship of the Petitioner
- To sponsor a K-1 visa for a foreign fiancé, the petitioner must be a US citizen rather than a lawful permanent resident (green card holder).
5. No History of Immigration Violations
- Both parties must have a clean immigration record and not be inadmissible to the United States for any reason, such as criminal convictions or immigration violations.
Who Can Apply for the K-1 Visa
- U.S. citizens who are engaged to marry a foreign national and wish to bring their fiancé(e) to the United States to get married.
- Foreign people who fit the previously mentioned eligibility conditions and are engaged to a U.S. citizen.
The K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa: Eligibility Explained
Engaged couples can reunite and get married in the US with the help of the K-1 visa. By being aware of the eligibility requirements described in this article, eligible couples can confidently apply for a K-1 visa and be ready for their road to marriage and immigration to the US.