Like other engaged couples, you can’t wait to officially start your life together with your fiancé. You want to set a date and plan your wedding. There’s just one difference – your fiancé doesn’t live in the U.S.
You have been told to look into K-1 fiancé visas, but what exactly does that entail? Here are five things that can help you plan for the process and the future you deserve.
There will mostly likely be an interview
Your fiancé will probably have to go through an interview with the authorities, and it will be demanding. He or she should be prepared for this. They will want to ensure that your relationship is genuine and that you truly intend to marry. Getting married only to obtain a green card is considered fraud, which is why the interview is a serious matter.
Your citizenship matters
If you are trying to bring your fiancé to the U.S., you have to be a U.S. citizen yourself. A green card holder isn’t eligible to sponsor a K-1 visa applicant.
It is required that you have seen each other in the last two years
If you rekindled a romance with your first-grade boyfriend or girlfriend, but haven’t seen them since – unfortunately, the K-1 visa probably isn’t going to be an option. You and your fiancé must have seen each other in person within the last two years in order to qualify, in most cases.
You have 90 days to get married
Once a fiancé petition is approved and your fiancé is able to come to the U.S., you will have 90 days to get married. If the marriage has not occurred within that time, your fiancé will have to leave the U.S.
A wedding does not equal citizenship
Getting married doesn’t automatically make your new spouse a citizen. He or she will be given two years of conditional residency. After this time, it can become permanent.
While it can feel overwhelming, there are many resources in place to help you through it. Understanding the process and knowing what to expect can make the future you want become a reality.
