Fiancee Visa Information (K1 Visa)
General Information
The citizen of the U.S. petitions to the USCIS Service Center for a K1 fiancee visa approval, the approval is then forwarded to the foreign U.S. consulate where the foreign fiancee lives.
The foreign fiancee gathers the paperwork, attends an interview, and gets the K1 fiancee visa, travels to the U.S., marries in the U.S. and applies for adjustment of status during the first 90 days.
Total time estimated: 6-9 months. This is usually the best method IF the foreign fiancee does not have a tourist visa (or visa waiver).v
Positives
Usually processes faster than a K3 spousal visa
Will be able to work upon entry after getting social security card and an EAD (Employment Authorization Document).
An EAD is applied for at the same time you file for AOS (Adjustment of Status), after marriage. Usually waiting times are 90 days to get the EAD).
Opportunity to "get to know your fiancee better" before marriage, since the visa is good for 90 days.
Negatives
Must have advance parole in order to travel outside the US
Fiancee will have to file adjustment of status after entry.
If the relationship fails before permanent residency is granted, there are no other options for adjustment and the K1 spouse has to leave the U.S.
K1 fiancee visa holders are in valid status for only 90 days and may not extend their status. K1 fiancee visa holders should marry and file adjustment of status within 90 days after entry into the U.S.