Jacksonville K-1 Visa Lawyers

Your Trusted Partner for K-1 Fiancé Visa Success

Bringing your fiancé(e) to the United States is an exciting step toward building a future together. However, the K-1 visa process can be complex, requiring careful documentation and adherence to immigration laws. At the Law Office of Karen Winston, LLC, we specialize in family-based immigration and are committed to guiding you through every stage of the K-1 visa application process.

Start with our K-1 fiancé visas lawyer in Jacksonville by calling (904) 740-3690 or messaging us online.

What is a K-1 Visa?

A K-1 visa, commonly known as the "fiancé(e) visa," allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the United States for the purpose of marriage. Once the visa is approved, the couple must marry within 90 days of the fiancé(e)'s arrival. After marriage, the foreign spouse can apply for adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident (green card holder).

K-1 Visa Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a K-1 visa, you must meet the following criteria:

• The petitioner must be a U.S. citizen.

• Both partners must be legally free to marry.

• The couple must have met in person at least once within the past two years (exceptions apply for extreme hardship or cultural reasons).

• The relationship must be genuine, and both parties must intend to marry within 90 days of arrival in the U.S.

The K-1 Visa Application Process

The K-1 visa process involves several steps, including:

1. Filing Form I-129F

The U.S. citizen petitioner must file Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form establishes the legitimacy of the relationship and the intent to marry.

2. USCIS Review and Approval

USCIS reviews the petition and, if approved, forwards it to the National Visa Center (NVC) for further processing.

3. Consular Processing and Interview

The fiancé(e) must attend an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. They must provide supporting documents, including medical examinations and evidence of a bona fide relationship.

4. Visa Approval and Entry into the U.S.

If approved, the fiancé(e) receives the K-1 visa, allowing them to enter the U.S. They must marry the petitioner within 90 days of arrival.

5. Adjustment of Status

After marriage, the foreign spouse can apply for a green card by filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

Common Challenges in the K-1 Visa Process

While the K-1 visa offers a path to marriage and residency, applicants often encounter challenges such as:

• Delays in processing times due to USCIS and embassy backlogs.

• Requests for additional evidence (RFEs) requiring further documentation.

• Denials due to insufficient proof of relationship or failure to meet eligibility requirements.

Having an experienced immigration lawyer can help you navigate these obstacles and ensure a smooth application process.

Why Choose the Law Office of Karen Winston?

At the Law Office of Karen Winston, LLC, we are dedicated to reuniting families through the immigration process. When you work with us, you benefit from:

• Personalized legal guidance tailored to your unique situation.

• Extensive experience in family-based immigration cases.

• Step-by-step support through every phase of the K-1 visa process.

• Strong advocacy in the event of delays, RFEs, or denials.

Take the First Step Towards a Future Together

If you are ready to bring your fiancé(e) to the U.S., let us help you navigate the complexities of the K-1 visa process. Contact the Law Office of Karen Winston, LLC today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your future together.

Start with our marriage & fiancé visas lawyer in Jacksonville by calling (904) 740-3690 or messaging us online.