How to Apply for a K-1 Fiancé Visa in South Carolina

How to Apply for a K-1 Fiancé Visa in South Carolina

The K-1 Fiancé Visa is designed for foreign nationals who are engaged to U.S. citizens and wish to enter the United States to marry their partner. If you're in South Carolina and looking to navigate the application process efficiently, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand how to apply for a K-1 fiancé visa.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before starting the application process, ensure that you have all the necessary documentation. This typically includes:

  • Your U.S. citizen partner's proof of citizenship (like a birth certificate or U.S. passport).
  • Proof of your relationship (photos, correspondence, travel itineraries).
  • Documents proving both of you are legally free to marry (divorce decrees, death certificates if applicable).
  • Evidence of meeting each other in person within the last two years.

Step 2: Complete Form I-129F

Your U.S. citizen fiancé(e) must file Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form includes details about both parties and the nature of your relationship.

Make sure to fill it out accurately and completely to avoid delays. Attach the required documents as evidence to support the petition.

Step 3: Pay the Filing Fee

The current filing fee for Form I-129F is $535. Payments can be made via check or money order addressed to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Confirm the payment method you’re using by checking the USCIS website for the most current information.

Step 4: Collect Receipt and Wait for Approval

After filing, USCIS will send a receipt to the petitioner. It can take several months to receive a decision on the petition. If approved, the petition gets forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC) for processing.

Step 5: Prepare for Visa Application

Once your petition is approved, the NVC will assign a case number and send your case to the U.S. embassy or consulate in your fiancé(e)'s home country. Prepare to file Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application.

Step 6: Gather Required Documents for the Visa Interview

You will need to prepare for the visa interview by gathering all necessary documents, which generally include:

  • A valid passport that will not expire for at least six months after your intended arrival in the U.S.
  • Birth certificate.
  • Police clearance certificate.
  • Medical examination results.
  • Evidence of the relationship (similar to the initial petition documents).

Step 7: Attend the Visa Interview

Both the U.S. citizen petitioner and the foreign fiancé(e) are typically required to attend the visa interview. This interview will assess the legitimacy of the relationship and may involve answering various questions about your plans to marry and your life together.

Step 8: Receive Your Visa

If approved, your K-1 fiancé(e) visa will be issued. You will be allowed to enter the U.S. and must marry your U.S. citizen partner within 90 days of arrival.

Step 9: Get Married and Adjust Status

After your marriage, you can apply for a Green Card by filing Form I-485 to adjust your status to that of a lawful permanent resident. Ensure you have all documentation ready for this process.

Conclusion

Applying for a K-1 fiancé visa in South Carolina involves several critical steps, most importantly gathering the necessary documentation and accurately filing forms. By following this guide and staying organized, you can simplify the process and move closer to starting your new life together in the United States.