Visa Guide: How to Move from Haiti to the United States

Are you planning to move from Haiti to the U.S.? Whether you’re looking to reunite with family, start a new chapter with your fiancé, or explore other opportunities, understanding the visa process is key. At Law and Visas, we make immigration simple and stress-free. From selecting the right visa to helping with documents, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Understanding Your U.S. Visa Options

If you’re immigrating from Haiti, there are several visa options available. These include family-based visas like the K-1 Fiancé Visa, marriage-based green cards, and options for children. Let’s explore these in more detail.

K-1 Fiancé Visa

The K-1 Fiancé Visa is perfect for Haitian citizens engaged to a U.S. citizen. This visa allows you to travel to the U.S., marry your fiancé within 90 days of arrival, and later apply for a green card to stay permanently.

How It Works for Haitian Applicants:

  • Process: The steps include filing a petition with USCIS, completing consular processing, and attending an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince.
  • Timeline: Processing times vary but usually take several months. It’s important to plan ahead and ensure all paperwork is complete.
  • Costs: Fees include the USCIS petition fee, visa application costs, and medical exam charges.

Learn more about timelines and costs with our K-1 Visa Guide designed for Haitian applicants.

Marriage-Based Green Card

If you’re already married or plan to marry soon, you can apply for a marriage-based green card, which allows the Haitian spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to live and work in the United States permanently.

What to Know:

  • Process: Applications vary depending on whether the Haitian spouse is applying from inside the U.S. or from Haiti, and whether the sponsoring partner is a U.S. citizen or a green card holder.
  • Timeline: Processing times depend on embassy workload and case complexity.
  • Costs: Fees include application costs, medical exams, and translation of documents.

Law and Visas offers expert guidance to help ensure your application is accurate, reducing delays and stress.

Which Visa Should You Choose?

Deciding which visa to apply for depends on your relationship status and immigration goals:

  • K-1 Fiancé Visa: For engaged couples planning to marry in the U.S.
  • Marriage-Based Green Card: For already-married couples or those marrying soon.
  • K-2 and IR-2 Visas: For children immigrating with their parent or joining a U.S. citizen parent.

Our experts at Law and Visas are here to help you determine the best visa option for your situation.

Immigrating with Children

K-2 Visa (Children of K-1 Visa Holders)

If you’re applying for a K-1 Fiancé Visa and have children under 21, the K-2 Visa allows them to immigrate with you. At Law and Visas, we include your children in your application at no additional cost.

IR-2 Child Visa

If you’re a U.S. citizen and your child is living in Haiti, the IR-2 Child Visa enables them to immigrate and obtain permanent residence.

We can help you include your children on your green card application for just $450 per child. Start by checking your family’s eligibility with us.

U.S. Embassy Information in Haiti

All immigrant visa applications for Haitian citizens are processed at the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince. Here’s how to reach them:

  • Address: Tabarre 41, Route de Tabarre, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
  • Phone: 011-509-2229-8000
  • Email: acspap@state.gov
  • Customer Service: Available Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM.

You can also contact customer service representatives via email at support-Haiti@ustraveldocs.com.

Special Considerations for Haitian Applicants

COVID-19 Updates

Due to the pandemic, the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince has reduced in-person visa appointments. Priority is given to:

  • Adopted children of U.S. citizens.
  • Cases where applicants are at risk of “aging out” of visa eligibility.
  • Emergency cases.

As conditions improve, other family-based cases, like spousal and K-1 visas, will also be prioritized. Visit the embassy’s website for the latest updates.

Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

Haitians already in the U.S. may be eligible for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) due to ongoing challenges in Haiti. TPS provides temporary work authorization and protection from deportation.

Learn more about eligibility and how to apply for TPS through USCIS.

Steps After Visa Approval

After your immigrant visa is approved, a consular officer will place a Machine Readable Immigrant Visa (MRIV) in your passport. This will be delivered to a DHL pickup location.

Before traveling, review your visa for errors. If you notice any, contact the embassy immediately. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s website for additional details on this process.

Why Choose Law and Visas?

At Law and Visas, we specialize in helping families from Haiti successfully navigate the U.S. immigration system. Here’s why thousands trust us:

  • Personalized Support: Tailored advice for your unique case.
  • Affordable Services: Clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees.
  • Proven Success: Over a decade of experience helping families like yours.

Start Your Immigration Journey Today

Moving to the United States from Haiti is a big decision, but with the right help, it can be a smooth process. Whether you’re applying for a K-1 Fiancé Visa, a green card, or immigrating with children, Law and Visas is here to help every step of the way.

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