K-1 Fiance Visa Requirements: Who Qualifies

Immigration » K-1 fiance visas » Requirements

The K-1 visa lets a foreign fiance(e) of a U.S. citizen enter the United States to marry within 90 days. Only U.S. citizens can petition, not permanent residents.

Legal requirements

The petitioner is a U.S. citizen.
Both people are free to marry, and prior marriages have legally ended.
You have met in person at least once in the two years before filing, unless a narrow waiver applies for extreme hardship or cultural customs.
You both intend to marry within 90 days of entry.
The petitioner meets the income requirement for financial support.
The beneficiary is admissible or can obtain a waiver.

Evidence of a real relationship

Photos together over time.
Travel records, tickets and passport stamps.
Messages and call history.
Statements from family and friends.
Proof of the in-person meeting.

Common problems

No in-person meeting in the last two years.
Large age or cultural differences that lead to questions.
Prior K-1 or marriage petitions by the petitioner.
Criminal history of the petitioner, which triggers special notices.

Alternatives

If you are already married, you may need a spouse petition rather than a K-1. See our marriage green card guide.

K-1 fiance visas guide

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This page is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration rules, policies and fees change often, so we confirm the current requirements before any filing. Last updated: November 2026.