There are many scenarios in which United States citizens may become engaged to people who live in other countries. Frequently, the goal is to have the foreign national fiancé e move to the United States. They can become a permanent resident and possibly even a naturalized citizen after marrying their citizen fiancé.
To legally enter the United States to get married, a foreign national typically requires a K-1 visa. Their citizen fiancé must sponsor them as they apply for a K-1 visa. That process can take anywhere from roughly half a year to well over a year, depending on various factors.
Once the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) grants a K-1 visa, how long is the document valid?
There are two deadlines for K-1 visas
In general, a K-1 visa allows for lawful travel for up to six months after the USCIS issues the visa. The fiancé planning to enter the United States must make travel plans within half a year of the USCIS granting them the K-1 visa.
There is also a strict timeline for officially marrying after entering the United States. A fiancé legally in the United States on a K-1 visa has 90 days after their date of entry to officially marry their citizen fiancé. If they do not solemnize the relationship within that limited window of opportunity, they may face removal from the United States.
Couples may need to have plans to move forward with a wedding promptly, as marrying within 90 days is important. Having assistance when applying for and utilizing a K-1 fiancé visa can help people avoid common mistakes that could undermine their plans to get married.