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How Long Does It Take to Get a K-1 Visa?
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The K-1 Visa, commonly known as the fiancé visa, is designed to allow the fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States for the purpose of marriage. Once the couple marries within the required 90-day period, the foreign partner can apply for adjustment of status to become a permanent resident. While the process is undoubtedly exciting, it’s also important to understand the steps involved and how long each stage takes. At Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC, we have years of experience helping couples through the K-1 Visa process.
Typical Timeline for a K-1 Visa
While processing times can vary based on workload, location, and accuracy of the application, the K-1 Visa process generally takes about 8 to 11 months from start to finish. Below is a breakdown of the main steps involved in securing a K-1 Visa:
1. Filing Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e))
- What it is: The U.S. citizen begins the process by filing Form I-129F with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This document confirms the legitimacy of the relationship.
- Processing time: 8 to 11 months on average.
- Key considerations:
- USCIS will issue a receipt notice within 30 days.
- Approval relies heavily on submitting thorough, accurate documentation.
2. National Visa Center (NVC) Processing
- What it is: Following USCIS approval, the case is forwarded to the NVC for further processing and assignment of a case number.
- Processing time: 6 to 8 weeks.
- Key considerations:
- The applicant receives instructions for submitting additional forms and the visa application fee.
- Preparing required documents promptly can help avoid unnecessary delays.
3. K-1 Visa Interview
- What it is: Once the case reaches the appropriate U.S. Embassy or Consulate, the applicant schedules a visa interview.
- Processing time: About one month to secure an appointment, though availability varies by country.
- Key considerations:
- The fiancé(e) must attend this interview and present evidence of the relationship, such as photos, communication records, and intent to marry.
- Approval is often granted during or shortly after the interview.
4. Entering the U.S. on a K-1 Visa
- Once the visa is approved, the fiancé(e) has 6 months to enter the United States.
- Upon arrival, the couple must marry within 90 days.
Potential Delays and Issues
While the above timeline reflects average processing times, certain factors can cause delays:
- Incomplete or inaccurate documentation: Missing evidence or errors can lead to rejection or requests for additional information (RFE).
- Backlogs at USCIS: High application volumes can extend processing times.
- Interview delays: Embassy and consulate availability may vary based on location and local conditions.
- Background checks: Additional review may be required for certain applicants.
Recent Changes That May Impact Timelines
Changes in immigration policy and staffing levels at USCIS or consular offices can directly affect processing times. Staying up-to-date on policy updates is crucial for applicants.
Contact Us For Help
Securing a K-1 Visa is a multi-step process that requires preparation, accurate documentation, and patience. While the average timeframe is 8 to 11 months, working with an experienced immigration attorney can help minimize errors and reduce delays. At Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC, we’re here to guide you through every stage, providing support to make your path to marriage and a life together smoother and more certain. Reach out today.
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We worked with Kevin Raica from Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC, and I can confidently say he went above and beyond for us. Our process was very long and at times overwhelming, but Kevin guided us every step of the way with professionalism, patience, and dedication. He was always available to answer our questions, explained everything clearly, and made sure we understood our options at each stage. What stood out…
A family friend referred me to work with Maya Flores at Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC to help me with my U.S. naturalization. Despite the current immigration tension, Maya helped make the process smooth and her familiarity with procedure helped ease my anxiety. She submitted the citizenship application on my behalf and let me know what to expect. I decided to retain her service for the civics interview as well,…
I really want to thank Justin and Kamila; they are the best. I waited almost 20 years and no one could help me get my green card and in 4 months they helped me get my permit, and I got my green card in less then 4 months. They are the best. I will always be grateful for what they did for me, thank you Justin and Kamila!!!!
I am writing this review to express my deepest gratitude for the hard work on our case by our Immigration Attorney, Lauren McClure and her Paralegal, Kamila Lada. My Green Card was approved! I know this wouldn't have been possible without their expertise and dedication. They both were extremely helpful, responsive, and guided us through every step of the way. Lauren took the time to train us for our interview…
I am incredibly grateful to Mr. Burton for his outstanding legal assistance in my immigration case, from my first consultation he heard me patiently demonstrating exceptional professionalism, expertise, and a genuine commitment to my case. Immigration process can be overwhelming and stressful, but he and his team provided clear guidance every step of the way, always answering my questions promptly and reassuring me with their deep expertise. Thanks to their…
I had an outstanding experience working with Brittni Rivera. From our very first consultation, she demonstrated deep expertise, professionalism, and genuine care for my case. Navigating immigration processes can be incredibly stressful, but Brittni made the entire journey much more manageable and transparent. She were always responsive to my questions, provided clear guidance at every step, and never made me feel like just another case. Thanks to her hard work…
Highly recommend this firm. I had the pleasure of working with Lauren McClure and she is absolutely the best. She was very helpful and walked me through every step of the process, she is patient and she got the job done. I am very grateful with her and her team for helping me with the process of my case. Thank you so much.
I have worked with Kevin Raica for my VAWA application. Let me tell you he has been AMAZING. Unlike other lawyers Kevin has always went above and beyond for me. Kevin is not in it for the money he is in it to HELP people and make a difference. He has walked me through the entire process and always answers any questions I have no matter what. This law firm…
The attorney is an excellent person and very professional. I am very grateful to the entire team—they are attentive to everything, and I consider her the best in all of the U.S. Thank you once again for everything.
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