If you are unsure about bringing your partner to the U.S. on a K-1 Fiancé Visa, you are not alone. Many people are unsure about the visa process for engaged couples. You might also be considering a marriage-based green card. Both options have their benefits and disadvantages to consider.
Knowing the pros and cons of both can help you find the right path. Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate both options and choose what works best for your relationship.
K-1 Fiancé Visa: For Engaged Couples
The K-1 Fiancé Visa allows engaged couples to reunite in the U.S. quickly, with marriage required within 90 days. It’s faster than a spouse green card and involves filing Form I-129F, attending a visa interview, and providing proof of the relationship. Here’s a quick overview of the process:
- Purpose:
- Allows your fiancé to enter the U.S. and marry you within 90 days.
- Timeline:
- Generally faster than a green card application.
- Steps:
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- File Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé).
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- Prepare the K-1 checklist for and attend the interview with evidence of your relationship.
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- Meet the K-1 fiancé visa income requirements to ensure you can support your fiancé.
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- Plan your wedding within 90 days of their arrival.
- Who It’s For:
- Couples who are engaged but not yet married and want to be together in the U.S. quickly.
Disclaimer:
The K-1 Fiancé Visa is a great way for engaged couples to reunite in the U.S. quickly, giving you 90 days to get married. While it’s usually faster to get started than a spouse green card, keep in mind that the whole process can take longer overall and may cost more in the end.
Please schedule a free consultation with immigration case lawyers. We’ll provide you with the latest updates and advice for your situation.
Marriage-Based Green Card: For Married Couples
The Marriage Green Card (MGC) provides lawful permanent residence for your spouse, allowing them to live and work in the U.S. long-term. The timeline changes depending on where your spouse applies. They can apply from within the U.S. or from abroad. This process is called Adjustment of Status or consular processing. It is good to be ready to answer the toughest AOS question.
The process includes filing Form I-130, submitting strong evidence of your marriage, and completing a green card interview. This option is ideal for married couples ready to build a life together in the U.S.
- Purpose:
- Grants lawful permanent residence (green card) to your spouse.
- Timeline:
- Depends on whether your spouse is inside the U.S. (Adjustment of Status) or abroad (consular processing).
- Steps:
- File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative).
- Provide strong evidence of your marriage (e.g., joint finances, photos, affidavits).
- Complete the green card interview process.
- Who It’s For:
- Married couples seeking long-term residency in the U.S.
K-1 Fiancé Visa vs. Spouse Visa: Which Option is Faster?
- The K-1 Visa is often quicker if you're not married yet and want your fiancé to arrive sooner.
- A marriage-based green card has many factors that affect approval. It is best if you are already married. However, it may take longer to process.
K-1 Fiancé Visa vs. Spouse Green Card Comparison Table
Here is a comparison table between the K-1 Fiancé Visa and the Marriage Green Card (MGC). This will help you choose the best option for your immigration journey with your partner. Please note processing times and k-1 fiancé visa interview questions may vary depending on the details and complexity of your case.
Disclaimer:
Please note that the steps below for the K-1 Visa and Marriage Green Card were correct when this blog was published (ENTER PUBLICATION DATE). Please schedule a free consultation with Goldstein Immigration Lawyers. We’ll provide you with the latest updates and advice for your situation.
K-1 Fiancé Visa vs. Marriage Green Card Pros and Cons
The K-1 Visa is ideal for engaged couples who wish to marry in the U.S. quickly. The Marriage Green Card might be a better choice for married couples seeking a more streamlined path to permanent residency. Your choice depends on your current relationship status and timeline priorities.
K-1 Fiancé Visa
Pros:
- Allows engaged couples to marry in the U.S. within 90 days of arrival.
- Provides a quicker initial entry to the U.S. compared to a green card process.
- Ideal for couples who are not yet married but want to start their life together in the U.S. sooner.
Cons:
- Requires an additional Adjustment of Status (AOS) filing after marriage, adding time and cost.
- Total processing time (including AOS) can be longer than the Marriage Green Card process.
- Requires proof of engagement and a valid relationship, with stricter criteria on meeting in person before applying.
Marriage Green Card (MGC)
Pros:
- Provides lawful permanent residency immediately after approval.
- Often allows concurrent filing of Forms I-130 and I-485 for spouses in the U.S., reducing overall processing time.
- Offers flexibility with Adjustment of Status for in-country applicants and Consular Processing for those abroad.
- Streamlined process compared to K-1 Fiancé Visa since no additional filings are needed after approval.
Cons:
- Requires couples to be legally married before filing.
- Longer initial waiting period for spouses abroad due to consular processing timelines.
- Gathering sufficient evidence of a bona fide marriage can be complex and time-consuming.
Key Tips:
Act quickly: Both processes take time and require detailed evidence of your relationship.
Consult a lawyer: California immigration attorney near you can help you determine the best option based on your situation and avoid delays or mistakes.
K-1 Fiancé Visa and Marriage Green Card Fees
They are meant to give you a general idea of the costs for the K-1 Fiancé Visa and Marriage Green Card processes. Fees can vary depending on your situation, location, and any changes in immigration rules.
To get the latest information, check official U.S. government websites. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs for both the K-1 Visa and Marriage Green Card processes:
How Much is the K-1 Visa
- Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)): $675
- K-1 Visa Application Fee (paid to the U.S. embassy): $265
- Medical Examination: Varies by country, but typically between $100–$500
- Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status): $1,440 (for applicants aged 14-78, includes biometrics)
- Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document): $630 (optional)
- Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization): $260 (optional)
- Other Costs (e.g., translations, photos, legal fees): Can vary, but may range from $100–$1,000+
Total Estimated Cost for K-1 Visa (including AOS): ~$3,000–$4,000 (could be higher depending on additional fees)
Disclaimer:
Please note that the prices for the K-1 Visa and Marriage Green Card were correct when this blog was published 01_06_2025. Costs can change based on personal situations. This includes legal fees, medical exams, and fees for consular processing in your area.
You can schedule a free consultation with Goldstein Immigration Lawyers. We’ll provide you with the latest updates and advice for your situation.
Marriage Green Card (MGC) Costs
- Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): $675
- Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status): $1,440 (for applicants aged 14-78, includes biometrics)
- Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support): No additional fee (included with I-485)
- Medical Examination: Varies, typically $100–$500
- Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document): $630 (optional)
- Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization): $260 (optional)
- Consular Processing Fees (if applying from abroad): $445 (visa application fee)
- Other Costs (translations, photos, legal fees): Can vary, but may range from $100–$1,000+
Total Estimated Cost for Marriage Green Card (if in the U.S. via AOS): ~$2,500–$3,500 (higher if consular processing is required)
Find the Best Visa Option for Your Relationship
The K-1 Fiancé Visa is a good option for engaged couples who want to marry quickly in the U.S. The Marriage Green Card is easier for couples who are already married and helps your spouse get permanent residency.
The K-1 visa vs. spouse visa options have their own timelines, costs, and financial requirements. It’s important to choose the one that fits your situation best. Reach out to our experienced K-1 Fiancé Visa lawyers for guidance tailored to your needs. We’re here to help bring your loved one to the U.S. and make your journey together as smooth as possible.
Common FAQs for K-1 Fiancé Visa Applicants
Continue reading below to find answers to your most important K-1 Fiancé Visa questions.
1. What are the K-1 Visa financial requirements?
To get a K-1 Fiancé Visa, the U.S. petitioner must prove their income. They need to earn at least 100% of the federal poverty guidelines. This must be done at the time of the visa application. After the fiancé enters the U.S., they can apply for Adjustment of Status. The income requirement then goes up to 125% of the federal poverty guidelines. Except if the petitioner is a member of the armed forces, it which case it is 100%
2. What should I expect at the K-1 Visa interview?
During the K-1 visa interview, you will answer questions about your relationship. You must also provide documents from your K-1 checklist. Finally, you need to show that your engagement is valid. Bringing the right documentation, including evidence of your relationship, is crucial. Common k-1 fiancé visa interview checklist questions may include:
- How did you meet your fiancé?
- What are your wedding plans?
- Have you met your fiancé’s family?
3. Can a K-1 Visa holder get a Social Security Number?
Yes, a K-1 Visa holder can apply for a K-1 visa Social Security Number (SSN) after entering the U.S. This allows them to work and establish their identity while they complete the Adjustment of Status process.
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