A Fiancé Visa Team Guiding Couples Toward A Bright Future
Fiancé visas and spousal visas are where love and immigration law intersect. These visas, known as K-1 and IR1/CR1 visas, provide international couples with key starting points for life together in the United States. Our legal team at IvyLaw Law Office, LLC, helps U.S. citizens and their immigrant partners pursue their unique version of the American Dream. Located in Greenbelt, Maryland, we offer comprehensive fiancé/spousal visa support nationwide. We are here to lead you forward with skill and empathy.
What Is A K-1 Fiancé Visa?
A K-1 visa allows a fiancé of a U.S. citizen to come to the U.S. for the purpose of marriage. Both parties must genuinely intend to marry. The process of seeking a K-1 involves:
- Petitioning: The U.S. citizen sponsor files Form I-129F with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to petition for a K-1 visa for their fiancé.
- Applying: The foreign-based fiancé completes Form DS-160.
- Gathering documentation: The foreign-based fiancé collects the necessary paperwork to support their visa application, including things such as a passport, a birth certificate and proof of financial support.
- Attending an interview: The foreign-based fiancé, bringing their documentation, goes to an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate, usually in their home country.
If a K-1 visa is granted, marriage must occur within 90 days of the foreign-based fiancé entering the U.S. If it does, the foreign-based spouse can apply for a green card through the adjustment of status process. If the parties do not marry within the required time frame, the foreign-based spouse must leave the country.
What Is A Spousal Visa?
IR1 and CR1 are spousal visas, which allow a spouse of a U.S. citizen to come to the U.S. and become a permanent resident. The CR1 visa is for marriages under two years in length, while the IR1 visa is for those over two years. To pursue such a visa, the U.S. citizen spouse petitions using Form I-130 and the foreign-based spouse goes through consular processing (if currently abroad) or the adjustment of status process (if currently in the U.S.). An IR1 visa grants unrestricted permanent residency. Meanwhile, a CR1 provides conditional permanent residency for two years, which can eventually become unrestricted residency.. A permanent resident spouse can live and work in the U.S. and may eventually be eligible to become a U.S. citizen. They are also subject to some key responsibilities, including paying relevant income taxes.
Why Trusted Legal Assistance Is So Important
The fiancé and spousal visa processes can be complex. Our skilled legal team can assist you with every step of seeking a visa and promptly respond to any issues that could prevent you from achieving your goals. This can make a huge difference in your efforts to achieve a bright new future for you and your partner. We are ready to provide you with the experienced, caring and committed support you need.
Get Your Free Consultation
Learn more about what our dependable marriage visa team can do for you. Reach out to us today at 301-614-0811 or by email to arrange a free consultation.