Introduction to K Visa Types
The US government provides visas for foreigners who want to enter the United States for various reasons. One of these visas is the K visa, which is intended for fiancé(e)s and spouses of US citizens. There are four main types of K visas that you can apply for, depending on your situation. In this article, we will go through each K visa type in detail so you can determine which one is right for you.
K-1 Visa – Fiancé(e) Visa
The K-1 visa is a type of visa that is issued to the fiancé(e)s of US citizens who want to enter the US to get married. The US citizen must file a petition (Form I-129F) with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to apply for a K-1 visa for their foreign fiancé(e). Once the petition is approved, the fiancé(e) can apply for a K-1 visa at a US embassy or consulate in their home country.
The K-1 visa is valid for 90 days, during which time the couple must get married. After the marriage, the foreign spouse can apply for adjustment of status to become a permanent resident of the US.
K-2 Visa – Children of Fiancé(e)s
The K-2 visa is a type of visa that is issued to the children of fiancé(e)s who are applying for a K-1 visa. To be eligible for a K-2 visa, the child must be under 21 years old and unmarried. The US citizen must include the names of the fiancé(e)’s children on the Form I-129F petition to apply for K-2 visas for them.
The K-2 visa is valid for the same 90-day period as the K-1 visa. After the marriage, the children can apply for adjustment of status to become permanent residents of the US.
K-3 Visa – Spouse Visa
The K-3 visa is a type of visa that is issued to the spouses of US citizens who want to enter the US while awaiting approval of their immigrant visa petition. The US citizen must file a Form I-130 petition with the USCIS to apply for an immigrant visa for their foreign spouse. Once the petition is filed, the foreign spouse can apply for a K-3 visa at a US embassy or consulate in their home country.
The K-3 visa is valid for two years and can be extended if the immigrant visa petition is still pending. After entering the US, the foreign spouse can apply for adjustment of status to become a permanent resident of the US.
K-4 Visa – Children of Spouses
The K-4 visa is a type of visa that is issued to the children of foreign spouses who are applying for a K-3 visa. To be eligible for a K-4 visa, the child must be under 21 years old and unmarried. The US citizen must include the names of the foreign spouse’s children on the Form I-130 petition to apply for K-4 visas for them.
The K-4 visa is valid for the same period as the K-3 visa. After entering the US, the children can apply for adjustment of status to become permanent residents of the US.
The Benefits of K Visas
The K visa is an excellent option for foreign fiancé(e)s and spouses who want to enter the US to start a new life with their loved ones. The K visa allows you to enter the US legally and work towards becoming a permanent resident. It also allows you to travel in and out of the US as needed while awaiting approval of your immigrant visa petition.
The Application Process
The application process for a K visa can be complex and time-consuming. It is essential to have a clear understanding of the requirements and procedures before you begin the application process. Here are the basic steps you need to follow to apply for a K visa:
- File a Form I-129F petition with the USCIS (for K-1 and K-2 visas) or a Form I-130 petition (for K-3 and K-4 visas).
- Wait for approval of the petition.
- Apply for a K visa at a US embassy or consulate in your home country.
- Attend an interview with a consular officer.
- Receive your K visa and enter the US.
- Get married (for K-1 and K-2 visas) or apply for adjustment of status (for K-3 and K-4 visas).
It is essential to provide accurate and complete information on your application forms and during your interview. Any discrepancies or omissions could result in delays or denial of your visa application.
Conclusion
The K visa is a valuable option for foreign fiancé(e)s and spouses who want to enter the US to start a new life with their loved ones. With the right preparation and understanding of the requirements, you can successfully obtain a K visa and work towards becoming a permanent resident of the US.
