Form I-129F vs. K-1 Visa

Planning your dream wedding with your fiancé(e) across borders? Here's a breakdown of two key steps: Form I-129F and the K-1 visa.

Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e))

  • Think of it as: The foundation. You (the US citizen) file this with USCIS to show your relationship is real and qualifies for a K-1 visa.

  • What you do: Submit the form with evidence like photos and proof of meeting in person.

  • What happens next: USCIS reviews everything to make sure you and your fiancé(e) meet the requirements. If approved, they send it on for further processing.

K-1 Visa (Fiancé(e) Visa)

  • Think of it as: The key. Once USCIS approves your petition, your fiancé(e) applies for this visa at a US embassy or consulate abroad.

  • What your fiancé(e) does: Apply for the visa with the approved petition and attend interviews.

  • The outcome: If approved, your fiancé(e) can enter the US, get married within 90 days, and then apply for a green card.