K1 Visa Lawyer

Trusted K-1 Fiancé Visa Attorneys in Chicago

The K-1 visa permits nonresidents who are engaged to be married to a United States citizen to legally enter the U.S. Upon entrance to the country, the recipient can marry and apply for a green card.

K-1 visas have a high rate of denial by nature. As such, it’s essential to correctly complete your application, which means seeking professional assistance.

At SimVisa law offices, we take pride in providing hands-on assistance to K-1 visa applicants. Our dedicated immigration lawyers have over a decade of experience handling fiancé visas. We've helped countless clients in Chicago and across the nation navigate the visa application process successfully.

Don't leave the outcome of your fiance visa application to chance. Partner with SimVisa to receive trustworthy guidance throughout the entire process and ensure that your application is in capable hands.

What Is a K-1 Visa?

The K-1 visa, formally also known as the Nonimmigrant Visa for a Fiancé, is a visa category in the United States that allows U.S. citizens to bring their foreign fiancé to the U.S. for the purpose of getting married.

Fiancé visas are designed to facilitate the reunification of engaged couples who plan to marry and reside together in the United States. A K-1 visa requires the couple to marry within 90 days of the foreign partner entering the country.

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Who Is Eligible for a K-1 Fiancé Visa?

The K-1 visa is available through United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). To obtain it, the partner with U.S. citizenship applies for the K-1 visa on behalf of their fiancé(e). 

The applicant must demonstrate eligibility by offering proof of four key points: 

1. They are a U.S. citizen.
2. They have plans to marry within 90 days of their fiancé’s entrance to the U.S.
3. They can legally marry their fiancé (neither party is currently married).
4. They have met their fiancé in person at least once in the past two years (some exceptions apply).

Currently, the K-1 visa is only available to the fiancés of U.S. citizens. A legal permanent resident (green card holder) can instead opt for a marriage visa, also known as the CR-1 spousal visa.

However, a marriage visa doesn't allow a foreign fiancé to travel to the U.S. Instead, the couple must first be married before the fiancé enters the country. If you're a green card holder with a fiancé overseas, an immigration lawyer can help you explore your options.

The K-1 Visa Process

Securing a fiancé visa involves carrying out a series of crucial steps, which will see the applying partner submitting documents to USCIS, the National Visa Center, a U.S. Consulate, and USCIS once again. 

Here's a concise breakdown:

• Initial petition: Begin by submitting Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé, and proof of eligibility to USCIS.
• USCIS approval: Upon approval, your case will advance to the National Visa Center, and you’ll complete the online nonimmigrant visa application.
• Visa interview: Your foreign fiancé must attend a visa interview, submit necessary documents, and undergo a medical exam.
• Approval of the K-1 visa: Following approval, your fiancé will be granted a single entry into the U.S.
• Marriage: You must officially tie the knot within 90 days of your fiancé’s entry.
• Adjustment of status: After being married, your spouse can file for permanent resident status.

Unmarried couples may lack typical evidence of companionship or cohabitation, such as shared residences or joint finances. Consequently, K-1 visas historically face high denial rates. Failing to put together a strong application can lead to delays or even bar your fiancé’s entry to the U.S.

To safeguard your future, it's highly recommended that you collaborate with a qualified immigration attorney from SimVisa. A fiance visa officially marks the beginning of your life together in the U.S., and proceeding without legal counsel can jeopardize your marriage and finances.

That’s why it’s best to work with a skilled K1 visa lawyer from the outset — it's a safer, smarter choice.

The K-1 Visa Interview: What to Expect

The interview is a pivotal step in the fiance visa process and bringing your fiancé(e) to the U.S. 

Here are some key considerations to be aware of:

• Documentation: You’ll need to gather all required documents, including Form DS-160, passports, and a birth certificate.
• Medical exam: Next, you must schedule and undergo a medical examination by an approved physician.
• Proof of genuine relationship: You’ll be expected to provide evidence of your bona fide relationship, such as photos, correspondence, and travel records.
• English proficiency: Basic knowledge of English is helpful for effective communication during the interview.
• Background checks: Both parties should prepare to be subjected to a background check.
• Cultural and personal questions: Be ready for an in-depth discussion on your relationship, meeting, and wedding plans.
• Financial support: You must present a clear plan for supporting yourself and your new spouse in the U.S.
• Attire and demeanor: Make it a point to dress professionally, be respectful, and present yourself confidently.
• Follow-up steps: After approval, your fiancé(e) must enter the U.S. within six months, and you must marry within 90 days to continue the process.

Your attorney can offer further insight and practical advice regarding each of these points.

How We Can Help with Your Fiancé Visa

A K-1 visa is critically important if you have plans to marry a partner who lives overseas. An experienced immigration lawyer can help you get all the necessary paperwork filed and approved so you can start your new life together as soon as possible.

Some of the tasks we can assist you with include:

• Holding an initial consultation to evaluate your case for a fiance visa.
• Preparing and filing a K-1 visa petition.
• Helping you gather and organize the documents required for the application process.
• Guiding you in completing Form DS-160 once USCIS approves your petition.
• Helping you schedule and prepare for the fiancé(e) visa interview.
• Responding to any requests for evidence (RFEs) from USCIS.
• Representing you and your foreign national fiancé in appeals in the event of a denial.

Our attorneys understand how important obtaining a fiance visa is to you and your beloved’s future together. We’ll fight hard to address potential issues during the application process so you can proceed with your wedding plans unhindered.

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