If you are engaged to a non-citizen, then you may want to move them to the US to get married. The K1 fiancé visa is a federal program that allows non-citizen fiancés to enter the country legally for the purposes of getting married. If you are currently seeking a K1 visa for your fiancé, you need to speak to a Mesa immigration lawyer.
The Mendoza Law Firm has over 100 years of combined legal experience fighting for the rights of immigrants and their families. We have a deep understanding of the visa application process and can help you and your fiancé build the life you desire here in the United States.
Let us show why over 100,000 clients have chosen us for legal representation. Contact our offices today to speak to a K1 fiancé visa lawyer in Mesa.
Why Hire Mendoza Law for Immigration Representation
The US’s immigration system is notoriously complex and opaque. Minor mistakes and factual inaccuracies can drastically delay applications, and the Department of Homeland Security has broad latitude to make immigration decisions in the absence of specific regulations.
When interacting with this system, you need a knowledgeable and experienced professional who can defend your rights. We can intervene and provide legal representation at every stage of the immigration process, from initial applications to final hearings and appeals.
As the child of immigrant parents, lead Attorney Maria Mendoza has first-hand knowledge of the difficulties that migrants and their families face. We can be your advocate and help you pursue the most favorable outcome to your case.
What Is a K1 Fiancé Visa?
The K1 fiancé visa is a special type of non-immigrant visa that allows non-citizen fiancés to enter the country legally to marry. A citizen can apply for a K1 visa for their fiancé and bring them to the US for the purposes of getting married.
Once the non-citizen fiancé is married in the US, they can apply for a green card (permanent residency).
K1 Fiancé Visa Eligibility
Below are the eligibility requirements to apply for a K1 fiancé visa for a non-citizen fiancé:
- You are a US citizen.
- You and your fiancé plan to get married within 90 days of their entry.
- You and your fiancé are legally eligible to be married.
- You and your fiancé have met in person at least once in the past two years.
The relationship must be a genuine bona fide relationship. Presenting a false relationship for the purposes of circumventing immigration law is a federal crime that can be punished harshly and result in immigration penalties.
Process of Applying for a K1 Visa
Below is the basic process for applying for a K1 fiancé visa. Keep in mind that the process might involve extensive background checks, and every case has different timelines.
Step 1: Fill out the Petition for Fiancé
The first step is filling out Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e). This form indicates your intention to marry your fiancé and provides information about any minor children.
Step 2: Complete the Visa Application
Once you complete the petition, your fiancé must complete the visa application at their local US embassy or consulate. After applying, the fiancé may have to complete a visa interview. If the visa is granted, it is valid for up to six months for a single entry.
Step 3: Port of Entry Inspection
When your fiancé enters the country, they will have to submit themselves to inspection at the border. Note that a valid K1 visa doesn’t guarantee entry into the country, as CBP retains discretion to make ultimate decisions.
Step 4: Marriage and Adjustment of Status
Once admitted, you have 90 days to marry your fiancé. After being married, your fiancé can apply for a green card by filling out Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
How We Can Help
The rules for K1 visa eligibility are tight, and you must follow the application process exactly. Mistakes and errors can result in delays and significantly lengthen application timelines.
A K1 fiancé visa lawyer from Mendoza Law can help at every step, including:
- Gathering personal identifying documents
- Obtaining evidence regarding your relationship
- Filling out visa applications
- Responding to requests for additional information
- Preparing you for interview questions
- Helping you adjust your status post-arrival and apply for a green card
We have extensive experience helping clients through immigration processes and can offer our guidance and support when you need it the most.
Contact a Mesa K1 Fiancé Visa Lawyer From Mendoza Law
Immigrants face numerous challenges when trying to establish a life here, but there are options for assistance. Mendoza Law can provide our skills and services to help you and your family live the American Dream.
Contact our offices online or call today to speak to a Mesa K1 fiancé visa lawyer and schedule an appointment.