K visas

The K nonimmigrant classification historically is used for a fiancé (e) (K-1) and his/her unmarried children under age 21 (K-2) of a United States citizen. After December 21, 2001, the K category was extended to include the spouse of a citizen (K-3) and his/her unmarried children under age 21 (K-4).

K-1:  The U.S. citizen fiancé (e) must submit a petition to USCIS showing that:

1. S/he and his/her fiancé (e) have physically met within the two years preceding the date the K petition is submitted.   This "previous meeting" requirement may be waived in cases of extreme hardship or where such a meeting would violate strict and long-established customs of the beneficiary's culture or social practice, such as where marriages are traditionally arranged by parents of the bride and groom and the couple are prohibited by custom from meeting before the wedding day; and,

2. Both the U.S. citizen and the fiancé/e must be "free to marry" meaning that any and all prior marriages have been legally terminated; and,

3. Both must intend to marry within 90 days of admission to the U.S. under K status.   Once USCIS approves the petition, the Department of State will forward the petition to the U.S. consulate abroad where the fiancé (e) applies for the visa.

For a full list of Visas available to Foreign Nationals please click here.