If you’re applying for a K-1 visa (fiancé visa) to marry your U.S. citizen partner, it’s important to know what costs are involved. This visa allows you to enter the United States and marry your fiancé(e) within 90 days of arrival. Below, we explain the different costs associated with the K-1 visa process, including government fees and additional expenses.
K-1 Visa Costs Overview
The basic cost to apply for a K-1 visa includes several government filing fees. The total amount for a K-1 visa petition is around $800, but it can be as much as $2,380 when you include the necessary “Adjustment of Status” form to change your K-1 visa to a marriage green card after arriving in the U.S. Keep in mind, these fees do not include the medical exam cost, which varies depending on the provider.
Important Update on K-1 Visa Costs: Increases in 2024
Starting April 1, 2024, filing fees for most immigration forms will increase, including K-1 visa applications. The fee for Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)) will rise from $535 to $675—a 26% increase. For a full breakdown of costs in 2024 and more details on the fee increase, check out the Law and Visas guide.
Breakdown of Mandatory Fees
Here’s a detailed look at the mandatory fees you’ll need to pay for your K-1 visa process. These fees are generally paid to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and other government agencies.
| Fee Type | Cost |
| K-1 Visa Petition (Form I-129F) | $675 |
| State Department Processing (Form DS-160) | $265 |
| Medical Examination | Varies |
| Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) | $1,440 |
| Biometrics for Form I-485 | $85 |
Note: The typical cost for a medical exam is about $200, but it can range between $100 and $500 depending on the provider. For more details, Law and Visas offers a comprehensive guide to preparing for your medical exam.
Discount for Online Filing
USCIS provides a $50 discount for filing your green card application forms online. This means you’ll pay $50 less if you file electronically rather than by mail.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the government fees, there are other potential costs involved in the K-1 visa process:
Vaccination Fees:
If your medical exam requires you to update your vaccinations, this could add extra costs. The price will vary based on your healthcare provider.
Translation Services:
If any documents in your K-1 visa application are in a language other than English, you must provide certified translations. For example, translating a one-page birth certificate typically costs between $20 and $40.
Document Fees:
Official documents like birth certificates or passports may require fees for issuance. Additionally, you’ll need to bring original copies of these documents to your final K-1 visa interview.
Professional Photography:
You will need two passport-style photos (2×2 inches) as part of your application. While you can take your own photos, using a professional photography service is recommended for the best quality to meet government standards.
Travel Expenses:
Any travel costs for attending your medical exam, visa interview at the embassy, or visits to government offices for documents are not reimbursed by the U.S. government.
Shipping Costs:
At various stages of the K-1 visa process, you’ll need to pay for mailing your application and supporting documents. The costs for shipping and postage are typically small but should be factored into your budget.
The total cost of applying for a K-1 visa can add up, but understanding all the fees ahead of time helps you plan your budget effectively. Be sure to keep in mind the government filing fees, as well as the additional costs like medical exams, translations, and shipping.
Initial Filing Fees
Form I-129F Fee
The first step in obtaining a K-1 visa is submitting Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)). As of December 2024, the filing fee for this form is $675. This fee is due at the time of submission to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and must be paid via check or money order made out to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Embassy/Consular Processing Fees
Once Form I-129F is approved, the foreign fiancé(e) must apply for the K-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. This involves additional fees:
- Form DS-160 Fee: The application fee for the K-1 visa interview is $265, which is typically paid online before the interview.
- Additional Document Processing Fees: There may be other processing fees depending on the specific requirements of the embassy or consulate.
- Costs for Required Documents: Applicants may need to obtain police certificates and other documents, which can vary in cost.
Medical Examination Fees
A medical examination is mandatory for the foreign fiancé(e) as part of the K-1 visa process. The costs associated with this examination can vary widely based on location and provider:
- Typical Costs: Medical exam fees generally range from $100 to $400, with an average cost around $200.
Common Medical Exams Required
The medical examination typically includes:
- A physical examination
- Tests for communicable diseases (e.g., tuberculosis)
- Vaccination review
Biometrics and Fingerprint Fees
Biometrics appointments are required for K-1 visa applicants, where fingerprints are taken for background checks. The associated costs are generally included in the filing fees; however, if additional biometric services are needed later in the process, there may be an extra fee of approximately $85.
Translation and Document Preparation Costs
Applicants often need to translate various documents into English, such as birth certificates and police records. The costs associated with translation and notarization can vary:
- Translation Costs: Expect to pay around $20 to $50 per document, depending on the service provider.
- Notarization Fees: Notarization may add an additional $10 to $30 per document.
Travel Costs
Travel expenses can also add up during the K-1 visa process:
- Travel for Interview: The fiancé(e) will need to travel to attend their K-1 visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Costs will vary based on distance and mode of transportation.
- Post-Visa Travel to the U.S.: Once approved, there may be additional travel costs for entering the U.S., including airfare.
Factors That Can Affect the Costs
Several factors can influence the overall costs associated with the K-1 visa and AOS process:
- Location Variability: Different U.S. consulates may have varying processing fees and requirements, which can affect overall costs.
- Unexpected Costs: Situations such as requests for additional evidence (RFEs), delays in processing, or appeals can lead to unanticipated expenses.
Payment Methods for K-1 Visa Fees
When paying fees at various stages of the K-1 visa process:
- USCIS Fees: Payments can typically be made via check or money order made out to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.” Some forms also allow credit card payments through specific forms.
- Consular Fees: These are usually paid online or at the embassy/consulate during the interview.
Tips for Reducing Costs
To minimize expenses during the K-1 visa and adjustment of status processes:
- Self-Filing: Consider filing forms without an attorney if you feel comfortable navigating the process independently.
- Avoid Common Errors: Carefully review all forms and documentation before submission to prevent delays or rejections that could incur additional fees.
- Plan Ahead: Ensure all required documents are prepared in advance to avoid last-minute costs or complications.
If you’re looking for assistance with your K-1 visa application, Law and Visas is here to guide you every step of the way. Start your journey today with expert help to ensure your application is smooth and stress-free.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the United States straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for an IR-1 Spouse Visa or a B-2 Tourist Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit the United States. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you.
