Documents You Need for a K-1 “Fiancé Visa”

Bringing your fiancé to the U.S. to start a life together is an exciting step, but the paperwork for a K-1 Fiancé Visa can feel overwhelming. This visa allows your partner to enter the U.S., provided you marry within 90 days of their arrival. To make the process smooth, it’s crucial to gather the right documents and understand the requirements. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare.

Form I-129F for K-1 Fiancé Visa

The journey begins with filing Form I-129F, the Petition for Alien Fiancé(e). This document establishes your intent to marry and provides basic details about both you and your fiancé. You’ll also need to include evidence of your U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or valid U.S. passport.

Proving Your Relationship is Real

One of the most important parts of the K-1 visa process is demonstrating that your relationship is genuine. Evidence could include photos of you and your fiancé together, records of communication like letters or chat logs, and even affidavits from friends or family who can vouch for your relationship. Don’t forget to document any recent visits, as proof that you’ve met in person within the past two years is a must. Passport stamps, travel itineraries, or hotel receipts can all support your case.

Financial Preparedness

The U.S. government wants assurance that your fiancé won’t face financial hardship upon arrival. You’ll need to provide financial documents, such as recent tax returns, pay stubs, and an employment letter. Additionally, Form I-134, the Affidavit of Support, must be completed to confirm you can support your fiancé financially.

Intent to Marry

Both you and your fiancé must submit signed statements expressing your intent to marry within 90 days of their arrival. This requirement is simple but crucial—make sure to word it clearly and attach it to your application package.

Your Fiancé’s Requirements

Your fiancé will also need to provide essential documents for their part of the process. This includes a valid passport, birth certificate, police clearance certificates from any country they’ve lived in for six months or more, and medical exam results. 

At the Embassy Interview

As the final step, your fiancé will attend an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their country. Alongside the documents already mentioned, they’ll need to bring two passport-style photos, the DS-160 confirmation page (completed online), and proof of the visa fee payment.

The K-1 visa process is a journey, and while it may feel like a lot of paperwork, it’s all about paving the way for your future together. Each form and document serves as a building block, ensuring that your relationship meets the requirements and that your fiancé’s arrival in the U.S. is seamless.

Even minor errors can lead to delays or complications, so taking the time to double-check your submissions is worth the effort. Navigating immigration laws can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Elizee Law Firm, we understand the emotional and logistical challenges of bringing a loved one to the U.S. Our experienced team will guide you through every step, from preparing forms to ensuring your case is strong and complete. 

Patricia Elizee is the managing partner of the Elizee Law Firm, an immigration law firm located at 1110 Brickell Avenue, Suite 315, Miami, Florida 33131. Phone 305-371-8846. The law firm was established in 2012. Ms. Elizee earned her Juris Doctorate at the University of Miami School of Law and her Masters in Law from the University of Washington School of Law.