How Long Does the I-148 K1 Visa Process Take?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to the K1 Visa Process

2. What is the I-148 K1 Visa?

3. Eligibility Requirements for a K1 Visa

4. Step-by-Step K1 Visa Process Timeline

• Filing the I-129F Petition

• USCIS Processing Time

• National Visa Center (NVC) Processing

• Embassy Interview and Approval

• Entry to the U.S. and Adjustment of Status

5. How Long Does the K1 Visa Process Take in 2025?

6. Factors That Can Affect Processing Time

7. Common Reasons for K1 Visa Delays

8. Tips to Speed Up the K1 Visa Process

9. What Happens After Your K1 Visa is Approved?

10. K1 Visa Denials and Reapplications

11. Adjustment of Status After Marriage

12. Costs Associated with the K1 Visa Process

13. FAQs About K1 Visa Processing

14. Resources and Legal Help for K1 Visa Applicants

15. Final Thoughts on K1 Visa Processing in 2025

Introduction to the K1 Visa Process

The K1 visa, also known as the fiancé(e) visa, allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the United States with the intent to marry within 90 days. However, the processing time for the K1 visa varies based on multiple factors, including USCIS workload, embassy backlogs, and applicant circumstances.

What is the I-148 K1 Visa?

Many people mistakenly refer to the K1 visa as the “I-148 K1 Visa.” In reality, the correct form is I-129F, which is the petition filed by the U.S. citizen sponsor to start the K1 visa process.

Eligibility Requirements for a K1 Visa

Before applying, ensure you meet the following requirements:

• One applicant must be a U.S. citizen (not just a green card holder).

• The couple must have met in person at least once in the last two years (with rare exceptions).

• Both partners must be legally free to marry (divorced, widowed, or never married).

• The relationship must be genuine, with proof of intent to marry within 90 days of arrival in the U.S.

Step-by-Step K1 Visa Process Timeline

1. Filing the I-129F Petition

• The U.S. citizen sponsor submits Form I-129F to USCIS.

• Processing time: 5-8 months (subject to changes).

2. USCIS Processing Time

• USCIS reviews the petition, verifies documents, and conducts background checks.

• If approved, the case is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC).

3. National Visa Center (NVC) Processing

• The NVC assigns a case number and forwards the petition to the U.S. embassy in the fiancé(e)’s country.

• Processing time: 4-6 weeks.

4. Embassy Interview and Approval

• The foreign fiancé(e) submits additional forms (DS-160) and attends an interview.

• A consular officer determines eligibility and issues the K1 visa.

• Processing time: 1-3 months.

5. Entry to the U.S. and Adjustment of Status

• Once the K1 visa is issued, the fiancé(e) has 6 months to enter the U.S.

• After marriage, they must file Form I-485 to adjust status to a green card holder.

How Long Does the K1 Visa Process Take in 2025?

On average, the entire K1 visa process takes 12-16 months, broken down as follows:

• USCIS processing: 5-8 months

• NVC processing: 4-6 weeks

• Embassy processing: 1-3 months

• Total estimated time: 12-16 months

However, processing times may vary based on USCIS backlogs, embassy delays, or incomplete applications.

Factors That Can Affect Processing Time

• High USCIS workload – More applications mean longer wait times.

• Embassy backlogs – Some countries experience delays in scheduling interviews.

• Errors in paperwork – Missing or incorrect documents can cause RFEs (Requests for Evidence).

• Background checks – If additional security checks are needed, processing takes longer.

Common Reasons for K1 Visa Delays

• Insufficient proof of relationship

• Criminal background issues

• Errors in Form I-129F or DS-160

• Medical exam complications

• Administrative processing delays

Tips to Speed Up the K1 Visa Process

• Submit a complete and accurate application – Double-check all forms before filing.

• Provide strong proof of relationship – Include photos, messages, travel records, etc.

• Be proactive in scheduling the interview – Once your case reaches the embassy, don’t delay in gathering required documents.

• Follow up regularly – Keep track of your case status online.

What Happens After Your K1 Visa is Approved?

• The fiancé(e) must enter the U.S. within 6 months of visa issuance.

• The couple must marry within 90 days of arrival.

• After marriage, the foreign spouse must apply for a green card (Form I-485).

K1 Visa Denials and Reapplications

• If denied, the embassy will provide reasons for rejection.

• Some denials can be appealed, while others require a new application.

• Common reasons for denial: Insufficient proof of relationship, past visa overstays, criminal history.

Adjustment of Status After Marriage

• After the wedding, the K1 visa holder must file Form I-485 to get a green card.

• Timeline for green card approval: 8-14 months.

Costs Associated with the K1 Visa Process

• I-129F petition: $535

• Medical exam: $200-$500 (varies by country)

• Visa interview fee: $265

• Green card (after marriage): $1,225

FAQs About K1 Visa Processing

Q: Can I work on a K1 visa?

A: Only after applying for a work permit (EAD) after marriage.

Q: What if we don’t marry within 90 days?

A: The K1 visa holder must leave the U.S. immediately.

Q: Can same-sex couples apply for a K1 visa?

A: Yes, as long as the marriage is legally recognized.

Resources and Legal Help for K1 Visa Applicants

• USCIS K1 Visa Page

• U.S. Department of State – K1 Visa

• Fibi Law Firm – Immigration Attorneys

Final Thoughts on K1 Visa Processing in 2025

The K1 visa process requires patience and careful planning. While the estimated timeline is 12-16 months, delays can happen due to embassy backlogs or missing paperwork. By preparing a strong, well-documented application, you can increase your chances of a smooth approval.

Need help with your K1 visa application? Contact our immigration attorneys today! 🚀