Obtaining a Green Card for Fiancé(e) of U.S. Citizen: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you a U.S. citizen engaged to a foreign-born fiancé(e) and wondering how to bring them to the United States? The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers a special visa category for fiancé(e)s of U.S. citizens, known as the K-1 visa or fiancé(e) visa. In this article, we will guide you through the process of obtaining a green card for your fiancé(e) and provide an overview of the requirements and benefits of this visa category.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a K-1 visa, the following requirements must be met: The petitioner must be a U.S. citizen. The petitioner and the fiancé(e) must have met in person within the past two years. The petitioner and the fiancé(e) must be free to marry, meaning that any previous marriages must have been terminated. The petitioner and the fiancé(e) must have a genuine intention to marry within 90 days of the fiancé(e)'s entry into the United States.

Application Process

The application process for a K-1 visa involves several steps: 1. Filing the Petition: The U.S. citizen petitioner must file a petition with USCIS on behalf of their fiancé(e) using Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e). 2. USCIS Processing: USCIS will review the petition and may request additional evidence or an interview. 3. Interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate: Once the petition is approved, the fiancé(e) will be scheduled for an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. 4. Entry into the United States: If the fiancé(e) is approved for the K-1 visa, they will be allowed to enter the United States for a period of 90 days, during which time they must marry the U.S. citizen petitioner. 5. Adjustment of Status: After the marriage, the fiancé(e) can apply for a green card by filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

Benefits of the K-1 Visa

The K-1 visa offers several benefits, including: Priority Processing: K-1 visa applications are given priority processing, which can result in faster processing times. Work Authorization: The fiancé(e) may be eligible for work authorization while their application is being processed. Path to Permanent Residency: The K-1 visa is a pathway to permanent residency, allowing the fiancé(e) to apply for a green card after marriage. Obtaining a green card for a fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen can be a complex process, but with the right guidance, it can be a successful one. By following the steps outlined in this article and meeting the eligibility requirements, you can bring your foreign-born fiancé(e) to the United States and start your new life together. Remember to consult with an immigration attorney if you have any questions or need assistance with the application process.

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