Fiance Visa Requirements: The Complete Guide to Getting Your Partner to the US
Getting a fiance visa might seem complicated, but understanding the requirements helps you stay on track. If you’re planning to bring your partner from another country so you can marry in the US, it’s best to know what’s needed at each step. This guide walks you through all the essential details—what documents you’ll need, who qualifies, and how the process works.
Whether you’re a US citizen or the foreign partner, knowing these requirements helps make your journey smoother and less stressful. Keep in mind, rules can change, so always check official embassy or consulate websites for the latest updates.
1. Overview of Fiancé Visa
A fiancé visa allows your partner to travel to the US with the purpose of marrying you within a set time frame. The most common type is the K-1 visa, issued to foreign nationals engaged to US citizens. Its main goal is to enable couples to marry in the US legally.
Once married, the foreign spouse can apply to stay permanently. Benefits include meeting in the US without needing to marry abroad first and starting life together sooner. Many countries issue visas like this, but the US K-1 remains the most recognized.
Usually, you need to file a petition first, before your partner can apply for the visa. The process often takes around 8-11 months, depending on the country.
2. Basic Eligibility Criteria
Before jumping into paperwork, check if your relationship qualifies. You and your partner must intend to marry within 90 days after your partner enters the US. Both of you should be legally able to marry—this means age, marital status, and legal capacity matter.
It’s essential to prove the relationship is genuine. This can include photographs, communication logs, travel records, and affidavits from friends or family. No fake marriages allowed—officials want to see real love stories.
Quick Tips: Ensure both of you are free to marry (single or divorced), between the ages of 18 and 45 (though age varies by country), and committed to tying the knot soon.
3. Key Documents Required
Gathering documents is the most time-consuming but crucial step. You’ll need to prepare a variety of civil and proof-of-relationship papers, including:
- Valid passports for both partners
- Birth certificates
- Proof of US citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization card)
- Evidence of termination of previous marriages (divorce decrees or death certificates)
- Photos together, travel itineraries, chat logs, and affidavits
- Police clearance certificates from all countries you’ve lived in during the last few years
- Medical examination reports from authorized doctors
- Proof of financial support (like Forms I-134 or similar)
Make sure all documents are translated into English if necessary and properly notarized if required.
4. Petitioner Requirements
The US citizen or permanent resident filing for the fiancé has specific responsibilities:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must be a citizen of the US (permanent residents can’t sponsor a fiancé)
- Need to meet income requirements—typically, your household income must be at or above the federal poverty guidelines for your household size
- Should be able to provide proof of income (tax returns, employment letters, pay stubs)
- Submit a clean criminal background check and be free of serious criminal history
Your income proof reassures immigration officials you can support your partner after they arrive. If your income doesn’t meet requirements, you might need a joint sponsor.
5. Beneficiary (Fiancé) Requirements
Your partner applying for the visa must:
- Have a genuine intent to marry within 90 days of entering the US
- Be legally single and able to marry (no existing marriages)
- Pass a thorough medical exam including vaccinations
- Undergo security background checks and police clearance
- Be physically able to travel and settle in the US
- Not be inadmissible due to security or health reasons
This means your partner needs a clean criminal record, proper vaccinations, and the medical exam result before the visa gets approved.
6. Application Process Overview
The journey involves several steps, starting with submitting the right forms:
- Step 1: File the petition (Form I-129F for the US, or other country-specific forms)
- Step 2: Wait for petition approval from immigration authorities
- Step 3: The petition is forwarded to the embassy or consulate for visa processing
- Step 4: Your partner applies for the visa, pays fees, and schedules an interview
- Step 5: Medical exam and immunizations are completed, and results are submitted
- Step 6: Attend the visa interview where officials review the case
- Step 7: Visa approval allows your partner to travel to the US and marry within 90 days
Once married, the foreign spouse can apply for permanent residence.
7. Proof of Relationship
Showing your relationship is real and ongoing makes a big difference. Include:
- Photos together during visits or trips
- Travel tickets and hotel receipts
- Communication logs (texts, emails, social media conversations)
- Affidavits from friends and family confirming your relationship
- Evidence of joint financial activities (shared bank accounts, joint property, or bills)
Be consistent and honest. Always update your documentation and organize it well for the interview. The more proof, the better the chances of approval.
8. Financial Support Requirements
One of the most scrutinized parts is income. The petitioner must show they make enough to support their fiancé without reliance on public benefits.
- Usually, the income needs to meet 100% of the federal poverty guidelines for your household size
- If income falls short, a joint sponsor can step in with an affidavit of support
- Valid proof can include recent tax returns, pay stubs, and employment letters
- If self-employed, provide recent business tax returns and financial statements
Preparing these documents early saves time and reduces setbacks during the processing.
9. Medical Examination and Police Clearance
Your fiancé must undergo a medical exam with an authorized doctor from the foreign country. The exam looks for communicable diseases and includes vaccinations.
- Make sure vaccinations are up to date, based on the country’s requirements
- A complete medical report must be submitted before the interview
- Police clearance certificates from all countries where your fiancé has resided since age 16 are essential
- Certificates must be recent, translated if needed, and sometimes notarized
Failing to submit these certificates on time can delay or deny the visa.
10. The Visa Interview
The interview is the final hurdle. Your partner needs to bring all original documents, including:
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Police certificates
- Medical exam results
- Proof of relationship
- Evidence of financial means
- Any additional forms or documents requested
During the interview, officials will ask questions about your relationship, marriage plans, and background. Be honest and consistent in your answers. Confidence and preparation matter.
11. Costs and Fees
The financial aspect adds up. Typical expenses include:
- Petition filing fee (around $535 for Form I-129F)
- Visa application fee (about $160)
- Medical exam costs vary by country
- Translation and notarization fees
- Travel costs to the US or consulate
- Possible legal help or visa agencies
Budget for these expenses early to avoid surprises.
12. After Visa Approval
Once approved, your fiancé can fly to the US. They must marry within 90 days of entry. After marriage, they should apply for a Green Card by filing Form I-485.
- The visa is valid for about six months post-issue
- Conditional residence is granted if the marriage is less than two years old
- To remove conditions, file Form I-751 within the 90-day window before the two-year residency period ends
Your partner can work and travel freely in the US during the process.
13. Special Situations and Exceptions
Certain cases may have special rules. For instance:
- Military fiancé visas may have stricter or different rules
- Same-sex couples can qualify under the same process as opposite-sex couples
- Previous denials require reapplication, possibly with additional evidence or legal help
Always verify if any special circumstances apply to your situation.
14. Common Reasons for Denial
Getting denied can be heartbreaking. Common reasons include:
- Insufficient proof of relationship
- Not meeting income requirements
- Providing incomplete or inaccurate applications
- Background or security issues
- Missing documents or failure to attend the interview
Double-check everything and prepare thoroughly.
15. Tips for a Successful Application
Make sure your documents are organized. Keep originals, copies, and translations ready. Be honest and clear. Practice interview questions with your partner. And if needed, consider consulting an immigration expert for advice.
Staying prepared increases your chances of approval and saves time.
16. Frequently Asked Questions
- Can a fiancé visa be extended? No, it’s typically valid for 6 months, just enough to marry in the US.
- What if the marriage doesn’t happen? You must leave the US before the visa expires unless you adjust your status.
- Can children be included? Yes, children of the fiancé can apply for K-2 visas.
- Difference between fiancé and spouse visa? The fiancé visa is for before marriage; the spouse visa applies after # Fiance Visa Requirements: Your Guide to Bringing Your Partner to the US
Planning to marry your partner in the US? Obtaining a fiance visa is the first step, but understanding what’s needed helps stay organized and avoid delays. This guide covers all the essentials—who qualifies, what documents are required, and how the process unfolds. Prepare for each stage with confidence and clarity.
Always check the official embassy or government websites for the latest updates, as rules can change. Now, let’s walk through the key requirements that will help your journey run smoothly.
1. Overview of Fiancé Visa
A fiancé visa allows your partner to come to the US with the intent to marry you within a specified time frame, usually 90 days. The most common type is the K-1 visa, issued to foreign nationals engaged to US citizens. It’s designed to facilitate the marriage process without requiring overseas marriage certificates.
Once married, your partner can apply for permanent residency, making the journey from fiancé to spouse much easier. The process begins with your filing a petition, followed by a visa application at the embassy or consulate. Processing times generally range between 8-11 months, depending on the country.
2. Basic Eligibility Criteria
Both you and your partner need to meet certain criteria. You must be a US citizen or legal permanent resident willing to sponsor your partner. You need to demonstrate your intent to marry within 90 days of your partner’s entry into the US.
Your partner must be legally able to marry in the US—meaning they are of legal age, single, and free from other marriage obligations. Additionally, the relationship needs to be genuine, shown through photos, communication, travel records, and affidavits.
Helpful tip: Your partner should be between 18–45 years old, usually, though age requirements depend on country laws. Confirm eligibility before starting the process.
3. Required Documents to Substantiate Your Case
Organizing your paperwork is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Valid passports for both of you
- Birth certificates
- Proof of US citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization proof)
- Evidence of termination of previous marriages (divorce decree or death certificate)
- Photos together, messages, emails, or social media chat logs showing a relationship
- Police clearance certificates from all countries lived in during the last five years
- Medical exams from authorized physicians, including vaccinations
- Proof of financial support (Form I-134, Affidavit of Support)
Make sure documents are recent, translated into English if necessary, and properly notarized. Having an organized file speeds up the review process significantly.
4. Requirements for the Petitioner (You)
The sponsor must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a US citizen (or lawful permanent resident, but only US citizens can file for a fiancé visa)
- Provide proof of income meeting the federal poverty guidelines based on household size—around $26,430 for a household of two in 2025
- Submit proof such as recent tax returns, pay stubs, and employment verification letters
- Clear criminal background checks, if applicable
Your ability to financially support your partner ensures they won’t be a public charge upon arrival. If your income is below the threshold, a joint sponsor with higher income can help.
5. Requirements for the Beneficiary (Your Partner)
Your partner needs to:
- Have clear intentions to marry within 90 days after entering the US
- Be legally eligible to marry (single status)
- Pass a medical examination, including vaccinations as required
- Complete security and background checks
- Provide police clearance certificates from all countries they’ve resided in since age 16
- Be physically fit and able to travel
They should not have inadmissibility issues such as prior criminal convictions or health-related restrictions.
6. The Application Process Step-by-Step
Getting started involves several key steps:
- Filing the petition: You, as the sponsor, complete and submit Form I-129F to USCIS.
- Approval: USCIS processes and approves your petition, which takes a few months.
- Visa application: Your partner applies at the US embassy/consulate, pays fees, and schedules an interview.
- Medical exam: Completed with approved doctors and submitted before the interview.
- Interview: Your partner attends the interview, presenting all necessary documents and answering questions.
- Visa approval: Once approved, they can travel to the US and marry within 90 days, after which they can apply for permanent residence.
Tip: Keep copies of everything and stay ahead of deadlines.
7. Building a Strong Relationship Evidence Package
Demonstrating a bona fide relationship is critical. Include:
- Photos together during visits or holidays
- Travel receipts or airline tickets proving visits
- Screen captures of message exchanges and social media interactions
- Affidavits from friends and family confirming your relationship
- Joint financial documents, like shared bank accounts or lease agreements
Consistency is key. Avoid contradictions and always be truthful.
8. Financial Support and Income Verification
Your financial capacity supports the visa application. You must prove your income is sufficient for the household size. The minimum threshold is usually 100% of the federal poverty level.
If your income doesn’t meet the threshold, consider a joint sponsor. They provide an affidavit of support and meet the income criteria.
Documents to establish support:
- Recent tax returns (IRS transcripts or copies)
- Pay stubs from recent months
- Employment verification letter
- Bank statements showing assets, if applicable
This helps reassure officials you can support your fiancé upon arrival.
9. Medical Exams and Police Certificates
Your fiancé must undergo a thorough medical exam with an authorized doctor before the interview. The exam checks for communicable diseases and requires vaccinations such as MMR, Tdap, hepatitis B, and others depending on country.
For police clearance, they need to obtain certificates from each country they’ve lived in since age 16. These might have to be translated and notarized.
Failure to submit valid health and police documentation can cause delays or denials.
10. Preparedness for the Visa Interview
The interview is a critical step. Your partner should bring:
- Original passports
- Birth certificates
- Police clearances
- Medical exam results
- Evidence of relationship (photos, communication logs)
- Proof of financial support
- Any additional documents requested
Answer all questions honestly. Officials want to ensure the relationship is genuine. Confidence, clarity, and organization increase approval chances.
11. Cost Breakdown to Budget For
Visa costs can add up. Expect to pay:
- Petition fee (about $535 for Form I-129F)
- Visa application fee (around $160)
- Medical examination (variable by country)
- Translation or notarization fees if needed
- Travel costs to the US or consulate
- Potential legal assistance (optional but helpful)
Save early and plan for extra expenses.
12. Post-Visa Approval and Marriage
Once the visa is issued, your partner should travel to the US and marry you within 90 days. After marriage, they’ll apply to adjust status to permanent residence using Form I-485.
During this process, they can also apply for work authorization and travel permits. The visa is valid for about six months, giving ample time to settle and plan for the future.
If the marriage lasts less than two years, they receive conditional permanent residency. To remove conditions, file Form I-751 before the two-year expiration.
13. Special Cases and Unique Situations
Certain situations may require extra steps or considerations:
- Military fiancé visas might involve special procedures.
- Same-sex couples qualify for the same visa process as opposite-sex couples.
- Rejections from previous applications can be appealed or refiled with additional evidence.
Always verify if any additional requirements apply in your case.
14. Common Pitfalls and Reasons for Denial
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Not providing enough proof of your relationship’s authenticity
- Failing to meet the financial requirements
- Submitting incomplete or inaccurate applications
- Having unresolved criminal issues or health concerns
- Missing documents or missing the interview appointment
Preparation is everything. Check everything twice.
15. Tips for a Smooth Application
Organization helps your application stand out. Keep copies of everything, stay honest, and prepare your partner with possible interview questions. Taking legal advice or using reputable visa services can reduce errors.
Being well-prepared makes the process easier and quicker.
16. FAQs about Fiancé Visa Requirements
- Can a fiancé visa be extended? No, it’s only valid for 90 days, just enough time to marry.
- What happens if we don’t marry within 90 days? The visa expires, and your partner must leave unless they switch to another visa status.
- Can children be included? Yes, children under 21 can apply for K-2 visas and later for adjustment of status.
- Difference between fiancé and spouse visa? The fiancé visa is for # Fiance Visa Requirements: The Complete Guide to Getting Your Partner into the US
Planning to bring your fiancé to the US so you can marry and start your life together? Knowing the fiance visa requirements is key to making this happen smoothly. This guide covers everything you need—what documents to prepare, eligibility rules, process steps, and tips to avoid delays. It’s all about helping you understand the process so you can stay organized and confident.
Remember, rules can change. Always check official embassy or consulate websites to confirm the latest information before starting your application.
1. Overview of Fiancé Visa
A fiancé visa (usually the US K-1 visa) lets your partner come to the US with the intention of marrying you within 90 days of entry. The main purpose of this visa is to allow couples who are engaged to marry legally in the US without needing to marry abroad first.
Once married in the US, your partner can apply for a green card and stay permanently. The process begins by you filing a petition, followed by visa processing at the consulate. Standard processing times are about 8–11 months, depending on the country.
2. Basic Eligibility Criteria
Before starting your application, ensure both of you meet the legal requirements. You must be a US citizen (or green card holder, but only citizens can file for a fiancé visa), and your fiancé must be legally able to marry.
You both need to intend to marry within 90 days of your partner’s arrival. Your partner must be single, of appropriate age (usually 18+), and free from any other marriage commitments. The relationship must be genuine; officials will want proof like photos, messages, or travel history.
Tip: Your fiancé should generally be between 18–45, but age limits vary depending on the country. Verify your partner’s status before proceeding.
3. Key Documents You Need to Prepare
Organizing documents is essential to evidence of your relationship and compliance with requirements. You’ll need:
- Valid passports for both of you
- Birth certificates (original or certified copies)
- Proof of US citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate)
- Divorce decrees or death certificates if previously married
- Photographs together, travel receipts, chat logs or social media screenshots demonstrating ongoing relationship
- Police clearance certificates from all countries where your fiancé has resided since age 16
- Medical exam results from approved physicians, including vaccinations
- Evidence supporting your financial ability to support your fiancé (Form I-134 or similar)
All documents should be recent, translated into English if not already in that language, and properly notarized if required. Proper organization speeds up the process.
4. Requirements for the Petitioning US Citizen (or Legal Resident)
The sponsor must meet certain criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a US citizen (permanent residents cannot file for fiancé visas)
- Meet income thresholds, typically at or above 100% of the federal poverty guidelines for your household size (about $26,000 for two in 2025)
- Supply proof of income such as tax returns, recent pay stubs, or employment letters
- Submit to a criminal background check
- Be willing to support your fiancé financially once they arrive
Your ability to support is crucial; if your income doesn’t meet the minimum, a joint sponsor can help certify that your fiancé won’t become a public charge.
5. Requirements for the Fiancé (the Beneficiary)
Your partner must:
- Be single and legally able to marry in the US
- Show clear intent to marry within 90 days of arrival
- Pass a medical exam and vaccinations as required by US health regulations
- Submit police clearance certificates from all countries where they’ve resided since age 16
- Pass security background checks
- Not have disqualifying health, security, or criminal issues
In short, they need to be medically fit, legally single, and ready to travel. Proper health documentation and clear background checks are mandatory.
6. The Application Timeline and Step-by-Step Process
Starting the process involves multiple formal steps:
- File the petition (Form I-129F) with USCIS.
- USCIS reviews and approves the petition, usually taking 8–10 weeks.
- The petition moves to the National Visa Center then to the US embassy or consulate.
- Your fiancé applies for the visa online, pays fees, and schedules an interview.
- Complete the medical exam with authorized doctors, and get immunizations.
- Attend the visa interview—bring all required documents.
- If approved, your fiancé can travel to the US.
Once in the US, you need to marry within 90 days for them to apply for permanent residence.
Tip: Keep copies of every form and receipt, and prepare your documents carefully.
7. Gathering Proof of Relationship
Make sure your relationship looks real. Examples include:
- Photos of visits, holidays, or special occasions
- Travel itineraries and boarding passes
- Chat logs, emails, social media messages showing ongoing contact
- Affidavits from friends and family confirming your relationship
- Shared financial arrangements (joint account statements, leases, bills)
The goal is to paint a clear picture of a genuine couple. Be honest and consistent in your storytelling.
8. Financial Evidence and Support Requirements
You must prove you can support your fiancé to avoid public benefits. The standard is that your income meets 100% of the federal poverty guideline for your household size.
If your income falls short, a co-sponsor with sufficient income can submit an affidavit of support.
Supporting documents include:
- Recent IRS tax transcripts or copies
- Recent pay stubs
- Employer letters verifying income
- Bank statements reflecting savings or income deposits
Well-prepared income proofs increase visa approval chances.
9. Medical exam and Police Clearance
Your fiancé needs a medical exam from an authorized doctor, including vaccinations like MMR, Tdap, hepatitis B, etc. The exam checks for communicable diseases, and vaccination records are essential.
Police certificates from countries where they lived since age 16 are required. Ensure these are recent, translated if needed, and notarized if required.
Failing to submit these documents on time could delay or block the visa issue.
10. Preparing for the Visa Interview
The visa interview is your fiancé’s opportunity to confirm their relationship and eligibility. They should bring:
- Original passports
- Birth certificates
- Police clearance certificates
- Medical exam results
- Evidence of your relationship (photos, communication logs)
- Proof of financial support (bank statements, tax returns)
Encourage your fiancé to answer honestly and confidently. Organization and thorough preparation boost approval odds.
11. Cost Estimation
Applying for a fiancé visa involves costs. Typical expenses include:
- Petition fee (US$535 for I-129F)
- Visa application fee (approx. US$160)
- Medical exam costs (vary by country)
- Document translation and notarization fees
- Travel expenses to the US or consulate
- Optional legal help or visa agents
Plan your budget early to avoid surprises.
12. After Visa Approval and Marriage
Once your partner arrives on the visa, they must marry you within 90 days. After marriage, they can apply for a green card by filing Form I-485.
The visa is valid for about six months from issue. If everything goes well, your spouse becomes a conditional permanent resident if married less than two years. To get full permanent residence, file Form I-751 to remove conditions within 90 days before the two-year mark.
During this process, your spouse can also apply for work and travel authorization.
13. Special Cases and Exceptions
Some situations require extra attention:
- Military fiancé visas have unique procedures
- Same-sex couples qualify equally under existing rules
- Previous visa denials may need additional evidence if reapplying
Always verify if any special rules apply in your case.
14. Common Reasons for Visa Denials
To avoid rejection, don’t make these mistakes:
- Insufficient proof of relationship authenticity
- Not meeting income requirements
- Missing or incomplete forms or documents
- Health or security inadmissibility issues
- Failing to show up for the interview or missing documents
Being prepared and thorough prevents many problems.
15. Tips for a Successful Application
Organization is your friend. Keep all copies, plan ahead, and prepare your fiancé for the interview. Consider consulting an immigration attorney or reputable expert when necessary.
Honest and complete answers during interviews help build trust. A well-documented case improves your chances of approval.
16. FAQs
- Can a fiancé visa be extended? Usually no. It’s valid for 6 months, enough to marry within 90 days.
- What if we don’t marry in time? The visa expires, and your partner must leave or switch to another visa status.
- Can children be included? Yes, they can apply as # Fiance Visa Requirements: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide to Bring Your Partner to the US
Getting a fiancé visa can be complex, but knowing the requirements makes the process smoother. If your goal is to bring your partner from abroad so you can marry in the US, understanding what’s needed at each stage is key. This comprehensive guide breaks down all the critical elements—eligibility criteria, documentation, procedures, and helpful tips—so you’re fully prepared. Always verify current rules from official embassy sites, as requirements may change.
1. What Is a Fiancé Visa and Why Do You Need It?
A fiancé visa, typically the US K-1 visa, allows your foreign partner to travel to the US for the purpose of marrying you within 90 days of arrival. It’s designed for couples who plan to marry soon after entry, especially when they want to avoid marrying abroad. After marriage, your partner can apply for permanent residency (green card). The process begins with you filing a petition and can take around 8-11 months, depending on the country.
2. Basic Eligibility: Are You and Your Partner Qualifying?
For the Petitioner (You):
- Must be a US citizen (permanent residents cannot sponsor fiancé visas)
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Able to support your partner financially (meeting income thresholds)
- Willing to marry within 90 days of your partner’s arrival
For the Beneficiary (Your Partner):
- Be single and legally able to marry in the US
- Be between 18-45 years old (most times)
- Show genuine intent to marry you within 90 days
- Be healthy (passing a medical exam), with no disqualifying health issues
Relationship Requirements:
- You both must prove your relationship is real, lasting, and based on mutual intent to marry. Evidence includes photos, communication logs, travel records, and affidavits.
Always check the latest official guidelines—rules can shift over time.
3. Essential Documents You Must Prepare
Prepare a comprehensive packet of documents to show you’re eligible. Key items include:
- Valid passports for both partners
- Birth certificates (original or certified copies)
- Proof of US citizenship (passport, birth certificate)
- Evidence of termination of previous marriages (divorce decree, death certificate)
- Photos together during visits and special occasions
- Communication logs (texts, emails, social media exchanges)
- Police clearance certificates from all countries of residence in the last five years
- Medical examination reports from authorized physicians, including vaccinations
- Proof of financial support (Form I-134 or similar affidavits)
- Translations of documents if not in English
Organize these documents neatly for easy retrieval during interviews and reviews.
4. Petitioner’s Requirements: Supporting Your Partner
As the sponsor, you must demonstrate:
- You’re at least 18 and a US citizen
- Your income meets or exceeds approximately $26,000 (for a household of two in 2025)
- You can provide proof via recent tax returns, pay stubs, or employment verification
- You’re legally eligible (no serious criminal record)
If your income falls short, consider a joint sponsor—their ability to support the applicant can be vital.
5. The Beneficiary’s Requirements: What Your Partner Needs
Your partner should:
- Clearly intend to marry you within 90 days of arriving in the US
- Be legally single and able to marry without restrictions
- Pass a medical exam, showing vaccinations and communicable disease clearance
- Submit police clearance certificates from all countries lived in since age 16
- Be prepared for background checks and security screening
They must also provide documentation confirming their financial independence isn’t a concern.
6. Step-by-Step Application Process
This is typically a multistage process:
- Step 1: You file Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé) with USCIS.
- Step 2: USCIS reviews and approves it, which might take a few months.
- Step 3: The approved petition goes to the National Visa Center then to your partner’s country embassy or consulate.
- Step 4: Your partner applies online, pays the visa fee, and schedules an interview.
- Step 5: Your partner undergoes the required medical exam with authorized doctors.
- Step 6: Attend the visa interview with all documents. Officials verify eligibility.
- Step 7: If approved, your fiancé gets the visa and can fly to the US.
Remember, marriage must occur within 90 days, after which they will apply for adjustment of status.
7. Proving Your Relationship Is Real
To show you’re a genuine couple, gather.
- Photos at trips, events, or holidays together
- Travel itineraries and airline tickets
- Chat logs, emails, social media messages demonstrating ongoing contact
- Affidavits from friends or family confirming your relationship
- Shared financial accounts or agreements
A consistent story backed by evidence can influence approval positively.
8. Income and Support Proofs
Supporting your fiancée financially assures authorities you won’t rely on public assistance.
- Meet the 100% federal poverty guideline for your household size (about $26,000 for two persons in 2025).
- Provide recent tax returns, pay stubs, and employment letters.
- If needed, find a joint sponsor with sufficient income who can submit an affidavit of support.
Proper documentation on income reduces denial risks.
9. Medical & Police Certification Requirements
Your partner must:
- Complete a medical exam with approved physicians, including vaccinations like MMR, Tdap, hepatitis B (check specific country requirements).
- Obtain police clearance certificates from every country they’ve resided in since age 16. These certificates often need translation and notarization.
Failing to produce valid health or police documents causes delays or rejection.
10. Preparing For The Visa Interview
In the interview, your partner should:
- Bring original passports, birth certificates, police clearances, police reports
- Submit medical exam results
- Present proof of relationship (photos, logs)
- Bring evidence of financial support
- Be ready to answer questions about your relationship and future plans
Honesty and organization are your best tools here.
11. Costs to Expect
Budget for several expenses:
- USCIS petition fee (~$535 for I-129F)
- Visa application fee (~$160)
- Medical exam (cost varies by country)
- Translation, notarization, and courier fees
- Travel to the US or embassy
- Optional legal help or visa service costs
Early planning prevents surprises.
12. After Visa Approval: What’s Next?
Your partner can now fly to the US and marry within 90 days. After marriage, they apply for permanent residence using Form I-485.
- The visa is usually valid for about six months
- If married less than two years, they get conditional green card
- To remove conditions, file Form I-751 within 90 days before the two-year expiry
Your spouse can also request work authorization during this process.
13. Handling Special Cases
Certain situations need extra attention:
- Military fiancé visas might involve extra steps
- Same-sex couples qualify fully under existing laws
- Previous rejections or complex cases might require legal advice
Always research based on your situation.
14. Common Reasons for Denial and How To Avoid Them
Stay clear of pitfalls like:
- Insufficient proof of relationship authenticity
- Not meeting income requirements
- Incomplete or inaccurate application forms
- Security or health inadmissibility issues
- Missing documents or attending the wrong interview slot
Preparation and honesty prevent delays.
15. Tips for a Smooth Application
- Stay organized: keep copies and track deadlines
- Gather strong evidence proving your relationship
- Be honest on all documents and during interviews
- Consider professional guidance if needed
- Practice interview questions to boost confidence
These small steps improve your chance for approval.
16. FAQs
- Can I extend a fiancé visa? No. It’s only valid for 6 months, mainly for marriage within 90 days.
- What if we don’t marry in time? Your partner must leave or switch to another visa. The visa becomes invalid once the 90 days pass.
- Can children be included? Yes, under K-2 visas, and they can later apply for permanent residence through the same process.
- Difference between fiancé and spouse visa? The fiancé visa is for before marriage, allowing entry to marry. The spouse visa (i.e., CR-1/IR-1) is for after marriage and leads directly to green card status.
Planning to marry your partner in the US? Understanding fiance visa requirements is your first step. With these detailed insights, you can prepare your application confidently, submit with clarity, and start your life together sooner. Remember always to verify the latest rules through official sites—this keeps your process smooth and hassle-free.