If you’re applying for a K-1 visa to bring your fiancé(e) to the U.S., it’s important to know the typical processing times. Currently, the entire process usually takes between 4-7 months. This timeline can vary depending on a few factors, but here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect.
How Long Does It Take for Form I-129F to Be Approved?
The first step in the K-1 visa process is for the U.S. citizen fiancé to file Form I-129F with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form is used to prove that the relationship is legitimate and that both parties are eligible for the visa.
USCIS typically reports that the processing time for Form I-129F is around 6.4 months. However, according to real-time tracking services like Law and Visas’ partner Track My Visa Now, the approval time is currently averaging 4-7 months. This can vary depending on the specifics of your case.
Once you file the form and supporting documents, USCIS will usually send you a receipt notice within 30 days. If they need more information, they might issue a Request for Evidence (RFE). Once Form I-129F is approved, you will receive an official approval notice.
What Happens After USCIS Approves Form I-129F?
After USCIS approves Form I-129F, the National Visa Center (NVC) takes over the next steps. The NVC stage typically takes around 6-8 weeks, though it may vary depending on your home country’s specific requirements.
Once the NVC receives the approved form, the U.S. Embassy or consulate in your fiancé’s home country will send them a notice. This notice will include the date and location of the visa interview as well as a list of required documents. This is known as the U.S. Embassy Packet of Instructions.
The fiancé(e) must also complete the DS-160 form (the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application), which is an important part of the K-1 visa process. Once this form is completed online, they will need to print out the confirmation page and bring it to the interview.
How Long Is the Wait for the K-1 Visa Interview?
On average, the wait for a K-1 visa interview is around 1 month. The fiancé(e) will attend this interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate in their home country.
During the interview, the consular officer will review the application and documents, and they will usually make a decision on the spot. In some cases, the officer may request additional documents, which will need to be submitted directly to the U.S. Embassy or consulate.
After the K-1 Visa Is Approved: The Next Steps
Once the K-1 visa is approved, the fiancé(e) has 90 days to enter the United States and get married. After the marriage, the next step is to apply for an Adjustment of Status (AOS) to change from a K-1 visa to a Marriage Green Card.
The timeline for K-1 to AOS processing typically takes anywhere from 10 to 23 months, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. This timeline may be longer if there are delays or additional requirements.
It’s important to note that these are average timelines, and delays can occur depending on various factors. To stay on top of your application and make sure everything goes smoothly, consider working with Law and Visas to guide you through the entire process.
