How Long Does It Take to Process a K-1 Visa for a Fiancé in the US?

Jennifer Paulino

New York & immigration managing attorney at Marble Law

Published March 3, 2025 · 4 min read

Key Takeaways

The K-1 visa allows U.S. citizens to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the U.S. for marriage within 90 days of arrival.
Processing times typically range from 7 to 10 months but may be delayed by factors like USCIS backlogs, embassy scheduling, or incomplete documentation.
Accuracy in the application and timely responses to requests can help avoid delays.

What Is a K-1 Visa?

The K-1 visa, or fiancé(e) visa, is a nonimmigrant visa that allows a foreign fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States for marriage. Couples must marry within 90 days of arrival, after which the foreign spouse can apply for a green card through Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status).

This visa offers a direct pathway to permanent residency, enabling couples to stay together in the U.S. without requiring the foreign fiancé(e) to leave after marriage. To qualify, couples must meet certain criteria, including:

Having met in person at least once within the past two years.
Being legally free to marry.
Providing evidence of a genuine, bona fide relationship.
You intend to marry within 90 days of your fiancé(e)’s arrival

Being legally able to marry means meeting typical U.S. marriage requirements like both fiancé(e)s being over 18, not being related and not already being married.

There are two reasons you may request USCIS waive the requirement that you and your fiancé(e) have met in person in the last two years. The first is proving that meeting in person would violate “strict and long-established customs” of your fiancé(e)’s culture or beliefs. The second is proving the requirement causes extreme hardship for you, the U.S. citizen.

The K-1 visa ensures compliance with U.S. immigration laws while providing a streamlined process for reuniting couples.

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What Can Affect the K-1 Visa Processing Time?

The typical processing time for a K-1 visa is 7 to 10 months, but several factors can impact how long it takes:

USCIS Service Center Workload: The time it takes to process your petition depends on how busy the USCIS service center handling your case is. Some centers experience backlogs, which can delay approval.
Embassy Scheduling Delays: Visa interview appointments vary by embassy. Seasonal demand, staffing issues, or local holidays can lead to longer wait times for scheduling.
Incomplete Documentation: If your application has errors or missing information, USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE), which requires additional time to respond.
Background Checks: Security screenings can also delay the process, especially if your fiancé(e) has a complex travel history or is from a country requiring additional review.

K-1 Visa Application Process Timeline

Each stage of the K-1 visa application requires careful attention to detail to avoid delays:

Filing Form I-129F with USCIS: You’ll start by submitting Form I-129F, which is your petition to bring your fiancé(e) to the U.S. This includes evidence of your relationship, such as photos, correspondence, and proof of having met in person. USCIS processing at this stage usually takes 4-6 months, depending on their workload.
National Visa Center (NVC) Processing: Once USCIS approves your petition, it is sent to the NVC, where they assign a case number and forward it to the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate. This step typically takes 3-4 weeks.
Consular Processing and Interview: Your fiancé(e) will complete Form DS-160, pay the visa application fee, and schedule their interview at the U.S. embassy. During the interview, they’ll need to present all required documents, such as proof of your relationship and their personal identification. This stage usually takes 2-3 months, but timing varies by embassy.
Visa Issuance: After a successful interview, the K-1 visa is typically issued within one week. Your fiancé(e) can then travel to the U.S., where you’ll need to marry within 90 days of their arrival.

Let Marble Help with the K-1 Visa Process

Working through the K-1 visa process can be stressful, especially with all the steps involved. A lawyer can help you through every stage, ensuring your application is thorough, accurate, and meets all requirements while addressing any challenges that arise along the way. Speak to Marble today to help you apply and guide you through the K-1 visa process.