K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa
For the foreign fiancé(e) of a US citizen entering to marry within 90 days of arrival.
The K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa is a US family & partner visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~US$675 I-129F petition fee plus US$265 K visa application fee) and processing time (~10-16 months from petition to visa issuance), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa is for
For the foreign fiancé(e) of a US citizen entering to marry within 90 days of arrival.
After marriage, file I-485 to adjust to permanent residence; leads to a green card.
K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa - eligibility criteria
- US citizen petitioner files Form I-129F
- Both parties are legally free to marry
- You have met in person within the last 2 years (waivers limited)
- Intend to marry within 90 days of entry
- Sponsor meets income requirements
K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa (United States) is ~US$675 I-129F petition fee plus US$265 K visa application fee, with an indicative processing time of ~10-16 months from petition to visa issuance. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Petition filed in the US; visa stamped at a consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | Single entry; must marry within 90 days then adjust status |
| Work rights | May apply for work authorization after arrival |
| Study rights | Study permitted after arrival |
| Government fee | ~US$675 I-129F petition fee plus US$265 K visa application fee |
| Processing time | ~10-16 months from petition to visa issuance |
| Route to PR | After marriage, file I-485 to adjust to permanent residence; leads to a green card. |
Pathway & next steps
After marriage, file I-485 to adjust to permanent residence; leads to a green card.
Many applicants also compare IR-1/CR-1 · IR-1/CR-1 Spouse of US Citizen Green Card, Green Card · Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US). Run a free VisaChief check to see which US route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa pitfalls we fix
K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa cost?
The K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa government fee is ~US$675 I-129F petition fee plus US$265 K visa application fee. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) before applying.
How long does the K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~10-16 months from petition to visa issuance. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa lead to permanent residence?
After marriage, file I-485 to adjust to permanent residence; leads to a green card.
Can I work on the K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa?
Work rights: May apply for work authorization after arrival.
Who can apply for the K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa?
For the foreign fiancé(e) of a US citizen entering to marry within 90 days of arrival.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United States government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) - official United States immigration authority