Marriage and Fiancé Visas in the U.S.

Everything You Need to Know

Joining your partner in the United States is a dream for many couples, but navigating the visa process can be complex. This complete guide explains the different types of visas available for couples and fiancés, the requirements, costs, and how USA Legal Now can help make your dream a reality.

1. Types of Marriage and Fiancé Visas

1. K-1 Visa (Fiancé(e) Visa):
Who can apply? U.S. citizens who want to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the U.S.
Main Requirements:

• Couple must marry within 90 days of the fiancé(e)’s arrival.

• Proof of a genuine relationship (photos, messages, travel records).
  Benefits:

• Allows the fiancé(e) to adjust status after marriage and apply for a Green Card.

2. CR-1/IR-1 Visa (Spouse Visa):
Who can apply? U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (LPRs) bringing their spouse.
Main Requirements:

• Legal marriage in the country of origin.

• Approved Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative).
  Benefits:

• Grants permanent residency upon arrival in the U.S.

3. K-3 Visa (Temporary Spouse Visa):
Who can apply? U.S. citizens with pending Green Card petitions for their spouse.
Main Requirements:

• I-130 must be filed and pending.

• Proof of a legitimate marriage.
  Benefits:

• Allows the spouse to enter the U.S. while awaiting Green Card processing.

2. K-1 vs. CR-1/IR-1 – Key Differences

💡 Tip: Choose the visa that best fits your timeline and situation.

3. Common Requirements for All Visas

• Proof of Genuine Relationship: Photos, trip records, chats, messages, letters

• Financial Documents: Income verification for Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support)

• Official Documents: Marriage, birth, divorce, or death certificates (if applicable)

• Consular Interview: Prepare for questions about the relationship and future plans

4. Costs Involved

• Petition Fees:

  • Form I-129F (K-1): $535

  • Form I-130 (CR-1): $535

• Visa Application Fees:

  • K-1: $265

  • CR-1/IR-1: $325

• Medical Exams: $200–$500 depending on country

• Certified Translations: $20–$50 per page

💡 Tip: Budget for all fees, travel, and extra documentation.

5. Application Process Steps

1. File Petition: I-129F for K-1, I-130 for CR-1/IR-1

2. Petition Approval: USCIS sends approval notice

3. NVC Processing: Submit additional documents and pay fees

4. Consular Interview: Attend with all documents

5. Travel to the U.S.: Once visa is approved, the beneficiary can enter

💡 Tip: Careful preparation reduces delays and boosts approval chances.

6. How to Prove a Genuine Relationship

• Keep detailed records:

  • Travel photos, family gatherings, holidays together

  • Chat screenshots, call logs, emails

  • Letters from family/friends, financial support receipts

7. Interview Tips

• Documents to Bring: Passport, approval notices, relationship proof

• Typical Questions:

  • “How did you meet?”

  • “What are your plans after marriage?”

  • “What does your partner do for work?”

• Be Honest and Confident: Speak clearly and provide strong documentation

8. How USA Legal Now Can Help

Applying for a marriage or fiancé visa can be complex, but USA Legal Now is here to guide you every step of the way:

✅ Form Preparation: We ensure all documents are accurate and complete
✅ Interview Coaching: Mock sessions to prepare you and your partner
✅ Certified Translations: For USCIS-required documents
✅ Personalized Support: We track every step and keep you informed

📌 With USA Legal Now, uniting your family becomes easier and less stressful.

9. FAQs

Q: Can I apply for a K-1 visa if we’ve never met in person?
A: No. You must have met at least once in the past 2 years, with rare exceptions.

Q: How long does the K-1 visa process take?
A: On average, 6–9 months, but timelines can vary.

Q: Can my fiancé(e) work on a K-1 visa?
A: After marriage and adjustment of status, they can apply for work authorization.