For a Fiance Visa (K-1) application, key documents include a valid passport for the foreign fiance, a completed Form I-129F petition, and proof of the couple's genuine relationship such as photos, correspondence, and affidavits from friends or family. Evidence of meeting in person within the last two years is required, along with financial documents like an Affidavit of Support (Form I-134) from the U.S. citizen petitioner. Medical examination results and police clearance certificates are also essential to complete the application process.
What Documents Are Needed for a Fiancé Visa (K-1) Application?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | IMBRA Compliance Documentation | The Immigration Marriage Fraud Amendments (IMBRA) compliance requires the petitioner to provide proof of a bona fide relationship, including evidence such as photos, communication records, and affidavits. Essential documents for a K-1 fiance visa application include a valid passport, the Form I-129F petition, police clearance certificates, medical examination reports, and proof of the petitioner's U.S. citizenship combined with the detailed IMBRA compliance evidence. |
| 2 | USCIS Online Account Access Notice | Applicants for a Fiance Visa (K-1) must submit a USCIS Online Account Access Notice to efficiently track their application status and receive timely updates. This digital notice ensures seamless communication between USCIS and petitioners, helping to manage essential documents such as Form I-129F and evidence of the bona fide relationship. |
| 3 | Remote Civil Document Certification | Remote civil document certification for a K-1 fiance visa application typically requires notarized copies of birth certificates, police clearances, and proof of termination of prior marriages, verified through an authorized online or mail-in apostille service. Ensuring these documents are accurately certified remotely expedites processing by meeting U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) standards without in-person submission. |
| 4 | Digital Passport Photo Submission | Applicants for a Fiance Visa (K-1) must submit a digital passport photo that meets strict requirements, including a 2x2 inch size, a white background, and clear facial visibility with neutral expression. The photo must be in JPEG format, 240 pixels per inch (ppi), and not exceed 240 KB in file size to comply with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) standards. |
| 5 | Virtual Engagement Proof | A virtual engagement proof for a Fiance Visa (K-1) application includes screenshots of video calls, chat logs, and digital correspondence evidencing ongoing communication between the petitioner and beneficiary. Affidavits from witnesses and dated social media interactions further substantiate the bona fide nature of the relationship in the absence of in-person encounters. |
| 6 | I-134 Affidavit of Support (e-form updates) | The I-134 Affidavit of Support is a critical document in the Fiance Visa (K-1) application, demonstrating the U.S. citizen petitioner's financial ability to support the immigrant fiance and preventing them from becoming a public charge. Recent e-form updates have streamlined submission processes, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of providing financial evidence required by USCIS for visa approval. |
| 7 | Multi-factor Identity Verification Records | Multi-factor identity verification for a Fiance Visa (K-1) application requires government-issued identification such as passports, birth certificates, and police clearance certificates, ensuring the applicant's identity is accurately confirmed. Supporting documents like fingerprints, biometric data, and sworn affidavits from credible witnesses further strengthen the verification process for the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). |
| 8 | Social Media Relationship Evidence | Social media relationship evidence for a Fiance Visa (K-1) application includes screenshots of private messages, comments, and posts exchanged between the petitioner and the foreign fiance, demonstrating consistent communication and genuine intent to marry. Documentation of shared travel photos, tagged posts, and engagement announcements on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp further substantiates the authenticity of the relationship to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). |
| 9 | Digital Wet Signature Verification | Fiance visa (K-1) applications require key documents including Form I-129F, proof of U.S. citizenship, evidence of the relationship, and valid passports, all of which must feature a digitally verified wet signature to ensure authenticity and compliance with USCIS standards. Digital wet signature verification employs secure technology that confirms the signer's identity and the integrity of the document, streamlining the approval process while preventing fraud in immigration proceedings. |
| 10 | COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate (USCIS Format) | The K-1 fiance visa application requires a COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate in the USCIS-prescribed format, verifying that the applicant has completed all required vaccinations according to CDC guidelines. This certificate must include the vaccine type, dates of administration, and the official healthcare provider's information to ensure compliance with immigration health regulations. |
Overview of the K-1 Fiance Visa Process
The K-1 fiance visa allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiance(e) to the United States for marriage. The process requires submitting specific documents to prove eligibility and relationship authenticity.
- Form I-129F Petition - A petition filed by the U.S. citizen to initiate the K-1 visa process with USCIS.
- Proof of Citizenship - Documentation such as a U.S. passport or birth certificate to verify the petitioner's citizenship.
- Evidence of Genuine Relationship - Photos, correspondence, and affidavits demonstrating a bona fide engagement.
Eligibility Criteria for K-1 Visa Applicants
Eligibility for a K-1 fiance visa requires that both the U.S. petitioner and the foreign fiance(e) are legally free to marry and have met in person at least once within the last two years. The petitioner must be a U.S. citizen and intend to marry the fiance(e) within 90 days of their arrival in the United States.
Applicants need to submit proof of citizenship for the U.S. petitioner, evidence of a genuine relationship, and documents showing the legal ability to marry, such as divorce decrees or death certificates if previously married. Additional documents include Form I-129F, passport copies, and police clearance certificates from the foreign fiance(e)'s home country.
Essential Documents for the U.S. Citizen Petitioner
The U.S. citizen petitioner must provide proof of citizenship, such as a valid U.S. passport or a certified birth certificate. These documents establish eligibility to file the K-1 fiance visa petition.
Proof of a genuine relationship with the foreign fiance, including photos, correspondence, and affidavits, is crucial. Financial evidence, like recent tax returns and Form I-134 (Affidavit of Support), demonstrates the petitioner's ability to support the fiance.
Required Forms and Evidence for the Foreign Fiance(e)
What documents are needed for a Fiance Visa (K-1) application? The required forms include the Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiance(e), submitted by the U.S. citizen petitioner. You must provide evidence such as proof of the petitioner's citizenship, proof of the relationship, and documentation of meeting in person within the past two years.
Proof of Genuine Relationship and Intent to Marry
Proof of a genuine relationship is essential for a Fiance Visa (K-1) application, including photographs together, correspondence, and affidavits from friends or family confirming the relationship. Evidence of intent to marry involves a signed statement from both parties affirming the intention to marry within 90 days of entry into the United States. You must also provide documentation such as joint travel records or engagement details to strengthen your application.
Financial Support Evidence: Affidavit of Support (Form I-134)
Financial support evidence is a critical component of a Fiance Visa (K-1) application to prove your ability to support your fiance(e) without relying on public benefits. The Affidavit of Support (Form I-134) demonstrates your financial commitment and willingness to provide support during the visa process.
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-134) - This form is submitted by the U.S. citizen petitioner to show proof of financial stability.
- Proof of Income - Recent tax returns, pay stubs, or employment letters are required to verify steady income.
- Bank Statements - Providing current bank statements helps confirm sufficient financial resources to support the fiance(e).
Medical Examination and Vaccination Requirements
| Document | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Examination Report | Completed by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon or panel physician, this report confirms that the applicant has undergone the required medical examination. | Ensures the applicant meets health standards and identifies any medical conditions that may affect visa eligibility. |
| Vaccination Records | Official proof of vaccinations for specific diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, polio, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, influenza, and COVID-19. | Confirms that the applicant has complied with U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) vaccination requirements. |
| Vaccination Consent Forms | Forms signed during the medical exam, acknowledging informed consent for receiving required vaccines if not previously administered. | Documents the applicant's agreement to vaccination protocols mandated by U.S. immigration health regulations. |
| Medical History Records | Details about past illnesses, treatments, and any communicable diseases relevant to the medical screening process. | Supports the medical examiner in evaluating health risks and vaccine needs. |
Passport, Birth Certificate, and Identity Documents
A Fiance Visa (K-1) application requires essential identity documents to verify your eligibility. The primary documents include a valid passport, birth certificate, and other identity proofs.
Your passport must be current and not close to expiration, serving as your official travel document. The birth certificate confirms your date and place of birth, which is crucial for background checks. Additional identity documents, such as government-issued IDs or national identification cards, help establish your identity and support the application process.
Submission Guidelines: Where and How to File K-1 Visa Documents
Submitting the required documents correctly is crucial for a successful Fiance Visa (K-1) application. Understanding the designated locations and proper filing methods reduces delays and ensures compliance with immigration procedures.
- USCIS Lockbox Facility - The initial Form I-129F petition and supporting evidence must be mailed to the appropriate USCIS Lockbox based on the petitioner's state of residence.
- Electronic vs. Paper Filing - USCIS currently requires the Form I-129F petition be filed on paper via mail; electronic filing options are limited and depend on USCIS updates.
- Consulate Submission - After USCIS approval, the K-1 visa application documents are forwarded to the designated U.S. embassy or consulate in the fiance(e)'s country for further processing.
Following these submission guidelines helps to avoid processing delays and supports efficient visa adjudication.
What Documents Are Needed for a Fiancé Visa (K-1) Application? Infographic
