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.
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.
