Required source documents for K-1 fiance(e) visa applications include proof of the petitioner's U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate, U.S. passport, or naturalization certificate. Evidence of a genuine relationship is necessary, including photos, correspondence, and proof of meetings within the last two years. Applicants must also submit completed forms like the I-129F petition, passport-sized photos, birth certificates, police clearance certificates, and medical examination results.
Overview of the K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process
The K-1 Fiance(e) Visa allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiance(e) to the United States for marriage. This visa requires a detailed application process involving specific source documents to prove the legitimacy of the relationship.
Key source documents include a valid passport, birth certificates, and evidence of a bona fide relationship such as photographs, correspondence, and affidavits. The U.S. citizen petitioner must submit Form I-129F, along with proof of citizenship and proof of intent to marry within 90 days of the fiance(e)'s entry. Medical examinations and police clearance certificates are also mandatory parts of the application process to ensure compliance with U.S. immigration requirements.
Key Eligibility Criteria for K-1 Visa Applicants
The K-1 fiance(e) visa application requires specific source documents to establish eligibility and relationship authenticity. Key documents include a valid passport, birth certificate, and proof of U.S. citizenship for the petitioner.
You must also provide evidence of the bona fide intent to marry within 90 days of entry, such as photographs, communication records, and affidavits from friends or family. Proof of having met in person at least once within the two years prior to filing is mandatory for most applicants.
Essential Source Documents for the U.S. Petitioner
What are the essential source documents required for the U.S. petitioner in a K-1 fiance(e) visa application? These documents prove your eligibility and relationship with the foreign fiance(e). The petitioner must provide proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate, U.S. passport, or naturalization certificate. Evidence of a bona fide relationship includes photographs together, correspondence, and affidavits from friends or family. Financial documents like the Form I-134, Affidavit of Support, recent tax returns, and pay stubs demonstrate the petitioner's ability to support the fiance(e) financially. Proof of legal name changes and divorce decrees, if applicable, are also necessary to verify identity and marital history.
Required Evidence from the Foreign Fiance(e)
Required source documents for K-1 fiance(e) visa applications from the foreign fiance(e) include a valid passport, birth certificate, and police clearance certificates from all countries where you have lived. You must also provide evidence of the relationship, such as photos, correspondence, and proof of the in-person meeting. Medical examination results and completed Form DS-160 are essential to support your visa application.
Proof of Genuine Relationship: Acceptable Documentation
Proof of a genuine relationship is crucial for K-1 fiance(e) visa applications to demonstrate the authenticity of the relationship to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Acceptable documentation includes photographs of the couple together, correspondence such as emails, chat logs, or letters, and evidence of in-person meetings, like travel itineraries and boarding passes. Additional proof may consist of affidavits from friends or family, joint financial records, and social media interactions that confirm consistent communication and shared life experiences.
Financial Documents: Affidavit of Support (Form I-134)
Financial documentation is crucial for K-1 Fiance(e) visa applications to demonstrate the petitioner's ability to support the foreign fiance(e) without public assistance. The Affidavit of Support (Form I-134) serves as the primary financial evidence required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-134) - This form is a legally binding document that the U.S. petitioner completes to pledge financial support for the fiance(e) during the visa process.
- Proof of Income - The petitioner must submit recent pay stubs, tax returns, or employment letters to verify sufficient income to meet or exceed the federal poverty guidelines.
- Supporting Financial Evidence - Bank statements, asset documentation, or evidence of other financial resources may be required to strengthen the affidavit and confirm the petitioner's ability to provide support.
Supporting Documents for Previous Marriages and Divorces
When applying for a K-1 fiance(e) visa, submitting accurate supporting documents for previous marriages and divorces is crucial. These documents prove the legal termination of prior relationships and establish eligibility for the new visa application.
Required documents typically include certified divorce decrees, annulment certificates, or death certificates of former spouses. Providing these validated records helps the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) verify that all prior marriages have been legally ended.
Passport, Photos, and Identity Verification Requirements
Submitting accurate source documents is essential for a successful K-1 Fiance(e) visa application. Key documents include your passport, photographs, and identity verification materials.
- Passport - A valid, unexpired passport is required to establish nationality and identity for the visa applicant.
- Photographs - Passport-style photos must meet specific U.S. visa photo requirements, including size and background color.
- Identity Verification - Official government-issued IDs or birth certificates help confirm your identity and support the petition.
Ensuring all source documents meet U.S. immigration standards facilitates smooth processing of the K-1 visa application.
Translating and Certifying Foreign Language Documents
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Original Documents | K-1 fiance(e) visa applicants must submit official foreign birth certificates, police certificates, divorce decrees, and other civil documents as mandated by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). |
| Translation Requirement | Any document written in a language other than English must be translated into English. The translation must be complete and accurate to avoid delays or denials in the visa process. |
| Certification by Translator | The translator must provide a certification statement affirming that the translation is true and accurate. This statement often includes the translator's name, signature, contact information, and date of translation. |
| Authorized Translators | Translations may be performed by a professional translator, a reputable translation service, or the applicant if fluent; however, a certification is mandatory regardless of who performs the translation. |
| Document Legibility | Both the original foreign language documents and their English translations must be clear and legible to meet USCIS standards. |
| Additional Recommendations | Applicants should review USCIS instructions and consult with immigration attorneys to confirm translation compliance and to avoid processing delays. |
What Are the Required Source Documents for K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa Applications? Infographic
