Foreign nationals who wish to travel to the United States to see their significant others can do so through K visa status. Also known as the fiancé(e) visas, the K visas are a classification of visas that apply to foreign nationals who intend to marry their U.S. citizen fiancé(e) or reunite with their U.S. citizen spouse. Children of individuals who qualify for K visa status may also be eligible to receive K visas under similar categories.
K Visa Categories
Each visa carries specific requirements that must be fulfilled before and during entry to the United States. For example, the K-1 visa only permits fiancé(e)s to reside in the United States on the grounds that they will marry their significant other during their stay. To qualify for any of the K visas, it is recommended to work with an experienced immigration attorney who understands how the visa process and timeline works.
K-1 Visa
The K-1 visa is awarded to a foreign national who intends to marry their U.S. citizen fiancé(e) within 3 months of arriving in the U.S. They must enter the United States within 6 months of obtaining the visa, and must have their U.S. citizen fiancé(e) act as their petitioner on their behalf. The applicant must also provide additional evidence regarding their intentions to marry, as well as their intentions to adhere to other K-1 visa restrictions before being admitted. Should they choose not to marry or marry a different individual, they must return home to their country.
K-2 Visa
The K-2 visa is awarded to children of K-1 visa holders who are 20 years old or younger. Children are required to be unmarried to qualify for the visa but do not have to be related to the K-1 visa holder by blood. Proof of relationship to the child is required by the K-1 visa holder in order for the applicant to obtain a K-2 visa. The K-1 visa holder must also provide evidence that they can financially support the K-2 visa during their time of stay. Unlike the K-1 visa, the K-2 visa only permits a stay of 90 days in the United States.
K-3 Visa
K-3 visa status is awarded to foreign nationals who have previously obtained the K-1 visa, completed their stay and provided proof of marriage. The U.S. citizen spouse files a petition on behalf of the K-3 visa applicant, and if awarded, the foreign national can apply for a green card while on K-3 visa status. The visa is valid for a period of two years and can be renewed or extended while the individual waits for green card status. Children of the K-3 visa applicant may also apply to reside with them under K-4 visa status upon providing proof of relationship.
Speak With An Immigration Attorney For More Information
If you are a foreign national who intends to marry your fiancé(e) in the United States who is a citizen, reach out to Johnson & Masumi. Our immigration attorneys specialize in assisting foreign nationals who qualify for fiancé(e) visas with acquiring K visa status. To get started with your K visa application, call Johnson & Masumi at (703) 688-8279 or schedule a consultation online with one of our experienced immigration attorneys today.