How long does the K-3 visa process take?

Typically, the K-3 visa process can take around 6-9 months, but times can vary based on individual circumstances and processing delays.

Can I work in the U.S. with a K-3 visa?

Yes, once you enter the U.S. on a K-3 visa, you can apply for work authorization by submitting Form I-765.

What happens if my I-130 gets approved before my K-3 visa?

If your Form I-130 is approved before your K-3 visa, then your visa status will automatically change to that of an immigrant visa, and you can enter the U.S. as a permanent resident.

Are my children eligible for a visa too?

Yes, minor children of the foreign spouse can apply for K-4 visas to accompany or join their parent in the U.S.

Do I need a lawyer to apply for a K-3 visa?

While you do not need a lawyer to apply for a K-3 visa, having one can be helpful to navigate the process and ensure all forms are correctly filled out.

What if my K-3 visa application is denied?

If your K-3 visa application is denied, you can appeal the decision or apply again if you can address the reasons for the denial. Consult with an immigration attorney for guidance.

Do I have to stay in the U.S. once I enter on a K-3 visa?

While there are no specific requirements to stay, it's usually best to remain in the U.S. while applying for Adjustment of Status to avoid complicating your process.

Can I travel outside the U.S. on a K-3 visa?

Yes, you can travel outside the U.S. with a K-3 visa. However, it's important to carry all necessary documentation for re-entry.

Is the K-3 visa a path to green card?

Yes, the K-3 visa allows you to enter the U.S., and once here, you can apply for a green card through Adjustment of Status.

How much does the K-3 visa application cost?

The cost can vary, but generally, filing fees for Forms I-130 and I-129F, along with the DS-160 application fee, are required. Additional costs may include medical exams and attorney fees if you opted for legal help.

United States of America K-3 Spouse of U.S. Citizen Guide

Find out everything you need to know about United States of America K-3 Spouse of U.S. Citizen application process and requirements.

What Is the United States of America K-3 Spouse of U.S. Citizen?

The K-3 Spouse of U.S. Citizen visa is designed to reunite families by allowing the foreign spouse of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States while their immigrant visa petition is pending. This visa is specifically for those who are already married to a U.S. citizen. The main goal of the K-3 visa is to reduce the separation period between spouses by allowing the foreign spouse to stay in the U.S. while awaiting their permanent resident status. One of the key benefits of obtaining this visa is that it expedites the process and helps the spouse avoid prolonged separation from their U.S. citizen partner.

K-3 Spouse of U.S. Citizen Requirements for United States of America

Explore the key requirements for obtaining your K-3 Spouse of U.S. Citizen for United States of America. This section covers the necessary documentation, eligibility criteria, and any specific conditions you must meet to successfully apply for and secure your visa.

Proof of U.S. Citizenship
The U.S. citizen spouse must provide evidence of their citizenship, such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or certificate of naturalization.
Valid Marriage Certificate
A legally valid marriage certificate must be submitted to prove the bona fide marriage between the U.S. citizen and the foreign spouse.
Completed Forms (I-130 and I-129F)
Properly completed and signed forms I-130 and I-129F need to be submitted.
Medical Examination
The foreign spouse must undergo a medical examination by a designated physician before the visa interview. This ensures that they meet the health requirements for entering the U.S.

How to Apply for United States of America K-3 Spouse of U.S. Citizen

Understand the process of applying for an United States of America K-3 Spouse of U.S. Citizen, including key steps, document submission, and what to expect throughout the application.

File Form I-130
First, the U.S. citizen spouse must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form establishes the relationship between the U.S. citizen and the foreign spouse.
File Form I-129F
After receiving the receipt notice for Form I-130, the U.S. citizen spouse should file Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), with the USCIS. This specific form is what will trigger the K-3 visa process.
Wait for Approval
Once the Form I-129F is approved, it'll be forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC will then send it to the U.S. embassy or consulate in the foreign spouse’s country of residence.
Complete Form DS-160 and Schedule Interview
The foreign spouse will need to complete Form DS-160 online and pay the associated visa fees. Following this, they must schedule an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
Attend Visa Interview
During the visa interview, the foreign spouse will be required to provide various documents, including proof of the relationship, and undergo medical examination if necessary. If approved, the K-3 visa will be issued.
Enter the U.S. and Apply for Adjustment of Status
Once in the United States, the foreign spouse can apply for Adjustment of Status to obtain permanent residency by filing Form I-485 with USCIS.

Useful United States of America K-3 Spouse of U.S. Citizen Resources

USCIS Home Page

Department of State Home Page

Consular Electronic Application Center

National Visa Center

United States of America K-3 Spouse of U.S. Citizen Advice

Applying for the K-3 visa can be a bit complex, so it's super important to stay organized and keep track of all your documents. Double-check all forms for accuracy and make sure to follow the instructions to the letter. If you get stuck, consider consulting with an immigration attorney who can provide expert guidance. Also, it’s really helpful to start the process early to avoid any unexpected delays.

United States of America K-3 Spouse of U.S. Citizen Guide

What Is the United States of America K-3 Spouse of U.S. Citizen?

K-3 Spouse of U.S. Citizen Requirements for United States of America

Proof of U.S. Citizenship

Valid Marriage Certificate

Completed Forms (I-130 and I-129F)

Medical Examination

How to Apply for United States of America K-3 Spouse of U.S. Citizen

File Form I-130

File Form I-129F

Wait for Approval

Complete Form DS-160 and Schedule Interview

Attend Visa Interview

Enter the U.S. and Apply for Adjustment of Status

Useful United States of America K-3 Spouse of U.S. Citizen Resources

United States of America K-3 Spouse of U.S. Citizen Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

United States of America Passport Details and Ranking 2024