Once a Fiance Visa Application is filed, it takes 6-12 months for USCIS to make a decision on the visa, depending on where the application is filed. Once a decision is made it will take 1-2 months for the approved visa to be sent to the National Visa Center, where it receives a case number and will be forwarded to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate to where your fiancé lives. Once your Fiancé completes his or her visa application (DS160) and submits it with the visa fee, it will take 1-2 months for an interview to be scheduled. Once your Fiancé attends the interview and receives the approved K1 Fiancé Visa, he or she will have 90 days to enter the United States. Then you and your fiancé are free to marry within 90 days after his or her arrival.
How Much Does it Cost for a Fiancé Visa: Costs for the Fiancé visas are as follows:
- I129F (K1 Visa Petition) = $535
- DS160 Visa Application = $265
- Medical Exam– Varies $60-300
What Happens After We Marry? After you and your Fiancé marry, he or she will file a Petition to become a Permanent Resident (Also known as Green Card Holder). This form is called Form I485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. While filing, you can also ask for permission to work (Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization) and permission to travel outside the United States while the Petition is pending (Form I131, Application for Travel Document).
How Long Does It Take to Become a Permanent Resident: Processing times vary but will generally take 9-15 months depending on where you live. You should receive your permission to work and travel between 90-180 days after filing.
If you have been married for more than 2 years by the time your Application to become a permanent residence is approved, you will be granted permanent residency. If you have been married less than two years, you will be granted conditional residency and you will need to file to have the conditions of your residency removed in two years.
How Much Does it Cost to Become a Permanent Resident: The cost to become a permanent resident are as follows:
- I485 (Permanent Resident Application) = $1225
- I765 (Work Authorization) and I131 (Permission to Travel) = No additional cost.
- I751 (Petition to Remove Conditions) = $595 +85 $Biometrics Fee
