To apply for a Fiance(e) Visa (K-1), essential documents include a completed Form I-129F, proof of U.S. citizenship of the petitioner, and evidence of a genuine relationship, such as photos and correspondence. Applicants must also provide valid passports, birth certificates, police clearance certificates, and medical examination results. Affidavits of support and proof of termination of any prior marriages are required to ensure compliance with immigration regulations.
What Documents are Necessary for Fiancé(e) Visa (K-1) Application?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | I-129F Petition Packet | The I-129F Petition Packet for a Fiance(e) Visa (K-1) application requires Form I-129F, Evidence of U.S. citizenship of the petitioner, proof of the legal intent to marry within 90 days of visa issuance, and documentation demonstrating a bona fide relationship, such as photos, correspondence, and affidavits. Supporting documents also include proof of meeting in person within two years prior to filing, passport-style photos of both parties, and filing fees. |
| 2 | Intent to Marry Statements | Intent to Marry Statements are vital documents for the K-1 Fiance(e) Visa application, demonstrating both parties' genuine commitment to marry within 90 days of the foreign fiance(e)'s U.S. entry. These statements serve as legally binding declarations submitted alongside Form I-129F to USCIS, reinforcing the bona fide nature of the relationship and intention to fulfill the marriage requirement. |
| 3 | IMBRA Compliance Documentation | To ensure IMBRA compliance for a Fiance(e) Visa (K-1) application, applicants must submit evidence of a bona fide relationship, including photos, correspondence, and proof of in-person meetings within two years. Required documents also include police clearance certificates, medical examination results, and proof of termination of prior marriages if applicable, demonstrating adherence to legal and security standards. |
| 4 | Proof of In-Person Meeting | Proof of in-person meeting is essential for the Fiance(e) Visa (K-1) application and requires evidence such as photographs together, travel itineraries, and dated receipts showing the couple met face-to-face within two years before filing. Documentation must clearly demonstrate the bona fide nature of the relationship to satisfy U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requirements. |
| 5 | Passport-Style Photographs | Two recent passport-style photographs of the U.S. citizen petitioner and the foreign fiance(e) are required for the K-1 visa application, meeting specifications such as 2x2 inches in size, white background, and full-face view. These photos must adhere to U.S. Department of State guidelines to ensure acceptance and avoid application delays. |
| 6 | K-1 Visa Cover Letter | A K-1 visa cover letter must include a detailed list of supporting documents such as the Form I-129F petition receipt, proof of U.S. citizenship of the petitioner, evidence of a legitimate relationship like photographs and correspondence, completed medical examination results, and valid passports of both parties. Ensuring all forms and attachments are accurately referenced and organized within the cover letter streamlines the review process for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). |
| 7 | Affidavit of Support (I-134) | The Affidavit of Support (Form I-134) is a critical document in the K-1 fiance(e) visa application process, demonstrating the U.S. petitioner's financial ability to support the foreign fiance(e) without government assistance. This form requires the petitioner to provide evidence of income, assets, and employment to prove they meet or exceed 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for the household size. |
| 8 | Divorce or Death Decrees Proof | Proof of divorce or death decrees is crucial for a K-1 fiance(e) visa application to verify that any previous marriages have legally ended. Applicants must submit certified copies of all divorce decrees or death certificates to demonstrate eligibility and comply with U.S. immigration requirements. |
| 9 | Criminal History Records | The K-1 fiance(e) visa application requires applicants to submit certified copies of any criminal history records from all countries where they have lived for more than six months since turning 16. Accurate disclosure and official police clearance certificates, such as FBI background checks for U.S. residents, are critical for ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration authorities and preventing application delays. |
| 10 | Proof of Ongoing Relationship | Proof of ongoing relationship for a Fiance(e) Visa (K-1) application includes evidence such as photographs together over time, documented communication like emails, text messages, and call logs, as well as affidavits from friends and family affirming the legitimacy of the relationship. Official records of joint travel, shared financial responsibilities, and social media interaction also strengthen the application by demonstrating continued commitment. |
Introduction to the K-1 Fiance(e) Visa
The K-1 Fiance(e) Visa allows foreign nationals to enter the United States to marry their U.S. citizen partners. This visa requires specific documentation to prove eligibility and the genuine nature of the relationship. Understanding the necessary documents is essential for a smooth application process and successful visa approval.
Overview of K-1 Visa Eligibility Requirements
The K-1 fiance(e) visa allows a foreign-citizen fiance(e) to enter the United States to marry their U.S. citizen partner within 90 days. Understanding the eligibility requirements and necessary documents is essential for a successful application.
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship - The petitioner must provide a valid U.S. passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate to demonstrate citizenship.
- Intent to Marry - Both parties must submit sworn statements confirming their genuine intention to marry within 90 days of the fiance(e) entering the U.S.
- Evidence of Relationship - Photographs, correspondence, and travel records should be included to prove a bona fide relationship between the petitioner and the fiance(e).
Personal Identification Documents Needed
What personal identification documents are necessary for a Fiance(e) Visa (K-1) application? You must provide proof of identity for both you and your fiance(e) to establish your eligibility. Essential documents include valid passports, birth certificates, and government-issued photo IDs to confirm identity and nationality.
Evidence of U.S. Citizenship for Petitioner
To apply for a Fiance(e) Visa (K-1), the petitioner must provide proof of U.S. citizenship. Acceptable evidence includes a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, or a naturalization certificate.
Supporting documents ensure the petitioner's eligibility and help prevent processing delays. Providing clear and valid citizenship proof strengthens your application for the K-1 visa.
Proof of Genuine Relationship
Proof of a genuine relationship is essential for a Fiance(e) Visa (K-1) application. This documentation helps immigration authorities verify the legitimacy of the couple's intent to marry.
Applicants must provide evidence such as photos together, correspondence, and affidavits from friends or family confirming the relationship. Additional documents include travel records showing visits and joint financial statements. These proofs establish the authenticity required for visa approval.
Financial Evidence and Affidavit of Support
| Document | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Form I-134, Affidavit of Support | A sworn statement by the U.S. citizen petitioner promising financial support for the fiance(e) during the visa process and initial stay. | Demonstrates the ability to prevent the fiance(e) from becoming a public charge in the United States. |
| Federal Income Tax Returns | Copies of the petitioner's most recent tax returns, usually the last three years. | Proves stable income and financial eligibility to meet support requirements. |
| Employment Verification Letter | A letter from the petitioner's employer stating job position, salary, and employment duration. | Confirms current income and ongoing employment status. |
| Recent Pay Stubs | Pay stubs from the last few months. | Supports evidence of consistent income flow. |
| Bank Statements | Copies of recent bank account statements. | Demonstrates available financial resources. |
| Proof of U.S. Citizenship | Copy of the petitioner's U.S. passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate. | Confirms petitioner's eligibility to sponsor. |
Police Clearance and Criminal Record Documents
When applying for a Fiance(e) Visa (K-1), securing the correct documentation is crucial for a successful application. Police clearance and criminal record documents form a key part of this evidence, ensuring the applicant meets U.S. legal requirements.
- Police Clearance Certificate - This document must be obtained from the police authorities of all countries where the applicant has lived for six months or more since turning 16.
- Criminal Record Check - A comprehensive report showing the absence or presence of any criminal offenses is required to assess the applicant's character and admissibility.
- Certified Translations - If the police clearance or criminal record documents are not in English, certified translations must accompany the original papers to be accepted by U.S. immigration officials.
Failure to submit accurate and complete police clearance and criminal record documentation can result in delays or denial of the K-1 visa application.
Medical Examination and Vaccination Records
The K-1 fiance(e) visa application requires a comprehensive medical examination conducted by an authorized civil surgeon. This examination ensures the applicant meets the health standards established by U.S. immigration law.
Applicants must provide complete vaccination records that comply with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. Missing vaccinations may necessitate additional immunizations before visa approval.
Proper Formatting and Submission Procedures
Proper formatting and submission of documents are crucial for a successful Fiance(e) Visa (K-1) application. Ensuring all paperwork meets USCIS standards prevents delays and potential denials.
- Completed Form I-129F - This petition must be filled out accurately and signed before submission to initiate the visa process.
- Proof of Citizenship - Provide a valid U.S. passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate formatted clearly and legibly.
- Evidence of Relationship - Submit photos, correspondence, and affidavits organized neatly to demonstrate a bona fide engagement.
What Documents are Necessary for Fiancé(e) Visa (K-1) Application? Infographic
