k1 visa cover letter sample 2022

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How To Write A K1 Visa Cover Letter

December 6, 2021 by Beeraj Patel, Esq.

A K1 visa cover letter is a short and simple opening page for your Form I-129F (K1 visa) application. A cover letter is not required by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), but it can be helpful to clarify your application and to add a level of professionalism. This review discusses how you can write a cover letter that enhances your K1 visa application .

What Is A K1 Visa Cover Letter (Form I-129F)?

The K1 visa is an immigration visa for foreign nationals that are engaged to a U.S. citizen. It allows the U.S. citizen to sponsor their fiancé so that they can come into the country for the purpose of marriage. Upon entry to the United States, the foreign national has 90 days to be married.

A K1 visa cover letter is included in the front of your Form I-129F that the U.S. citizen submits on behalf of their foreign fiancé. Once again, a cover letter is not required by the USCIS, but it can help ensure a successful application.

What Is The Purpose Of The K1 Visa Cover Letter?

The purpose of this letter is to make it easier for the USCIS consular to process the K1 visa application . The cover letter should be short, organized, and easy for the consular to read. Ideally, the primary section of the letter should have bullet points that highlight the content that you have included in your K1 visa application.

Who Needs A Cover Letter?

K1 visa applicants (the U.S. citizen that is engaged to a foreign national) must submit Form I-129F to start the K1 visa process . A K1 visa cover letter can be helpful to include with your K1 visa application.

A Step-by-Step Guide To Writing Your K1 Visa Cover Letter

The best way to write a letter is to consult with an immigration attorney that has experience assisting foreign nationals (and their fiancé) through the K1 visa process. However, generally speaking, you can write a successful cover letter by ensuring all of the details you include are accurate, writing an introduction for the letter, listing the content that is included in your Form I-129F, and offering a thank you note and signature at the bottom of your letter.

Ensure That All Of The Details Are Accurate

The first and most important step in writing a cover letter is to ensure all of your information is accurate . You should first ensure that the consular understands that this is a K1 visa application (Form I-129F). Be sure to also verify that the USCIS address is accurate as well. Your letter can be any size, but the standard size is 8.5 by 11.

Write The K1 Visa Cover Letter Introduction

The next step to writing your letter is to craft the introduction. This should include a brief introduction of yourself and your fiancé. Be sure to use your full names and use a few sentences to describe your situation. Keep in mind, clear and concise should be the focus, so avoid making the introductory section longer than necessary.

List The Content Of Your Cover Letter

The next step in the K1 visa cover letter, and the primary purpose for the letter, is to list the contents that you are including in your application in the order that they are presented. The best way to do this is to list each included item in bullet format. For example, you may need to include the following into your K1 visa application and include a bullet point for each item:

• The Form I-129F
• Proof of U.S. citizenship
• The status of your fiancé
• Relationship information
• Any additional items

You may need to include additional documents. Be sure to provide a bullet point with a brief (yet detailed) description of each one. This helps the consular find everything they need in a timely manner and properly review your K1 visa application.

Thank The USCIS And Provide The Date And Your Signature

The last step to writing a K1 visa cover letter is to provide a thank you to the USCIS for their time and assistance in processing your K1 visa application . Be sure to end your cover letter with the date and your signature as well.

Get In Touch With An Immigration Attorney At Pride Immigration

An immigration attorney can help you through every step, including crafting your K1 visa cover letter. Pride Immigration assists foreign nationals and their fiancé (the U.S. citizen) through the K1 visa process. If you have additional questions and would like to schedule a consultation, then give us a call today at (571) 520-6116 or contact us online .

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Home » Fiance Visa USA » Cover Letter for I-129F, K-1 Visa – Fiance Petition

Cover Letter for I-129F, K-1 Visa – Fiance Petition

Rahul Gupta 123 Park Avenue, Iselin, NJ 08830 USA

Home: 732-391-9293 Work: 732-733-4087

United States Department of Homeland Security U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services 75 Lower Welden St. Saint Albans, VT 05479

November 12, 2019 Dear Sir or Madam:

Enclosed, please find the Form I-129F, Petition for K-1 Fiancèe for Manisha Devi Agrawal, and supporting documents as follows:

• Application fee – <$535>
• Form I-129F
• Evidence of my U.S. citizenship
• Form FC-029
• Proof of having met in person within the last 2 years
• Letters of intent to marry, petitioner and beneficiary

Copies of documents submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered documents, and I agree to submit original documents to an Immigration or Consular officer at a later date if required.

Yours truly,

<petitioner’s signature>

Rahul Ram Gupta

New Immigrants Insurance

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The K-1 Visa, Explained

Understand the income requirements, cost, timeline, and process for the k-1 fiancé visa in 2024, in this guide.

• K-1 visa eligibility
• How long does it take for a K-1 fiancé visa to be approved?
• The K-1 visa application process: Step-by-Step
• Step 2: Form DS-160 and interview
• K-1 visa FAQs
• Fiancé Visa Information
• Boundless Reviews

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What is a K-1 Visa?

The K-1 fiancé(e) visa allows the foreign fiancé of a U.S. citizen to come to the U.S. and get married within 90 days. It’s a nonimmigrant visa, which means it allows for a temporary stay in the U.S., not permanent residency.

However, once married, the foreign spouse can apply for adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident (green card holder).

Quick facts

• As of April 1, 2024, the cost to apply for a K-1 visa is $675, and the cost to get a green card after the couple is married is as much as $3005.
• To sponsor a K-1 visa, your income must meet or exceed 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines . In 2024, this means that for a household of two people (you and your fiancé), you need to make at least $20,440.
• 24% of K-1 visa applications were denied in FY2023, an increase from 19% in FY2022.

The K-1 fiancé visa allows a U.S. citizen to sponsor their foreign partner to enter the United States legally. Each partner must prove they plan to marry within 90 days after the foreign fiancé arrives in the U.S.

How much money do you need to sponsor a K1 visa?

To sponsor a K-1 visa, your income must meet or exceed 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines . In 2024, this means that for a household of two people (you and your fiancé), you need to make at least $20,440. Note that active duty military members need to meet a slightly higher income threshold, usually 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Income requirements change over time, so be sure to check the latest Federal Poverty Guidelines for the most up-to-date information.

If you’re concerned that don’t meet the income requirement, you can add a joint sponsor to your application. This is a friend or family member living in the U.S. with enough income to support you and your fiance.

To apply for a K-1 fiance visa, a U.S. citizen sponsor must:

• File Form I-129F: The sponsor starts the process by submitting Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), along with supporting documents and the filing fee to USCIS.
• Provide Proof of Relationship: Gather evidence to show your relationship is real. This includes things like photos, communication records, travel itineraries demonstrating in-person meetings, and other evidence of a committed relationship.
• Complete Form I-134: If approved by USCIS, your case goes to the National Visa Center and then the US embassy/consulate in your fiancé(e)’s country. At this stage, you’ll fill out Form I-134, Affidavit of Support, to demonstrate your financial ability to support your fiancé(e).
• Support the Fiancé(e)’s Application: Help your fiancé(e) gather the required documents, prepare for their visa interview , and possibly undergo a medical exam.
• Plan for Marriage and Adjustment of Status: Once your fiancé(e) comes to the U.S. on the K-1 visa, you are required to marry within 90 days.
• The U.S. citizen sponsor must meet the income requirements for a K-1 visa . To apply for a marriage green card, the sponsor must also meet specific income requirements.

RELATED ARTICLE

• Tips for getting your K-1 visa approved

To apply for a K-1 fiance visa, the foreign fiancé must:

• Wait for I-129F approval. This will take 7 months as of April 28, 2024.
• Complete Form DS-160: Once USCIS approves the petition, you’ll receive instructions to complete the online visa application, Form DS-160.
• Birth Certificate
• Divorce decrees or death certificates (if previously married)
• Police certificates from countries where you’ve lived for more than six months
• Evidence of your relationship with your U.S. citizen fiancé(e)
• Undergo a Medical Exam: You’ll need to schedule and attend a medical examination with an authorized physician. They’ll check for any conditions that could make you inadmissible to the U.S. and administer necessary vaccinations.
• Attend a Visa Interview: You’ll schedule a visa interview at your country’s U.S. embassy or consulate. The consular officer will review your application and supporting documents and interview you to determine your eligibility for the K-1 visa.
• Travel & Get Married: If your visa is approved, you’ll receive your K-1 visa and have 6-months to travel to the U.S. Remember, you must marry your U.S. citizen fiancé(e) within 90 days of arrival in the U.S.
• Apply for Adjustment of Status: After your marriage, you can apply to adjust your status to become a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) of the US.

Note: Same-sex partners are eligible to apply for a K1 visa, regardless of whether the laws in the sponsored fiancé’s home country allow for same-sex marriage.

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What is the 2-year rule for a K-1 visa?

The 2-year rule is a crucial part of the K-1 visa process. It is designed to ensure that the relationship between the US citizen and the foreign-citizen fiancé is genuine by requiring couples to provide proof they’ve met in person at least once within the two years before they submit Form I-129F. This doesn’t mean couples need to have been in a relationship or know each other for two or more years; it simply means that before you send in your K-1 visa forms, you must have evidence that you’ve physically met.

Despite the challenges of meeting in person during the pandemic, online meetings, video chats, and phone calls do not satisfy this requirement. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. If meeting in person would conflict with religious or cultural traditions, or if it would result in severe hardship to the foreign-citizen fiancé(e), the rule may not apply.

If the US citizen and their foreign-citizen fiancé(e) did not meet in the previous two years, they may request a waiver of the 2-year rule. This request should be submitted with Form I-129F and must include proof that arranging the meeting was extremely difficult or impossible.

• Tips for getting your K-1 vi sa approved

As of April 28, 2024, the processing time for a K-1 application ( Form I-129F ) is 7 months. This estimate is based on analysis by Boundless partner Track My Visa Now.

After Form I-129F is approved, USCIS will forward the case to the National Visa Center (NVC) which can take four to six weeks.

Why is this timeline different from the processing times published by USCIS?

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) publishes historical application processing times once every three months. According to their most recent release, the wait time for a K-1 visa is approximately 12.2 months.

• How Long Does It Take USCIS To Process a K-1 Visa in the U.S.?

K-1 visa costs

The current total cost for a K-1 fiancé visa is $800 .

Here is a breakdown of K-1 visa costs:

The government’s required fee for Form I-129F is $675 . An applicant may pay with a money order, cashier’s, or personal check. If you are filing at a USCIS lockbox facility, you can pay by credit card using  Form G-1450 (“Authorization for Credit Card Transactions”). If paying by check, make the check payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. NOTE: USCIS offers a $50 discount if you file Form I-129F online.

Once Form I-129F is approved, the engaged partner of the U.S. citizen must complete a medical exam . The cost for the exam varies by provider, but $200 is typical.

Finally, the actual K-1 visa application fee is  $265. It’s usually paid at the interview —but it’s important to review specific instructions regarding time and place of payment, included in the embassy’s interview notice, which can vary by home country.

These fees do not reflect additional costs, such as translating and photocopying your documents and obtaining required documents, such as your birth certificate.

A K-1 visa is only the beginning of your U.S. immigration journey. Learn what it takes to get a marriage green card and become a permanent U.S. resident.

• Step-by-step guide: How to change your status from fiancé visa to marriage green card

Step 1: Form I-129F

The first step in obtaining a K-1 visa is for the U.S. citizen fiancé to file Form I-129F (“Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)”) with USCIS. This form proves that the relationship is valid.

Documents that must be included with Form I-129F:

• Proof that the sponsoring fiancé is a U.S. citizen (evidence could include a passport copy, certificate of naturalization, or birth certificate)
• A copy of the foreign fiancé’s passport
• Evidence proving the relationship is real, such as pictures together, travel itineraries for trips taken together, letters from family and friends confirming the relationship, emails or text messages between the partners, and so on.
• The couple must prove they have met in person at least once within the two years before submitting the form. Evidence includes flight bookings, hotel itineraries, pictures, emails, etc.
• Each partner must sign a sworn statement explaining the nature of their relationship and stating they intend to get married within 90 days after the foreign partner arrives in the U.S.
• The sponsored fiancé must include a copy of all previously issued Form I-94 arrival/departure records
• One passport-style photo of the U.S. citizen fiancé and one passport-style photo of the foreign partner

Evidence of relationship in the digital era

The digital era offers applicants additional evidence for their application that could be helpful to consider.

• Screenshots of social media interactions: Consider including select screenshots of your communication on social media, such as posts you’ve tagged each other in, public displays of affection, and chat histories that demonstrate meaningful conversations or experiences you’ve shared.
• Digital communication logs: if you communicate a lot on apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, etc. an organized collection of the depth of your communications could be valuable.
• Shared digital experiences: If you play online together, have shared subscriptions to services, or collaborate on projects online, these shared activities might strengthen your case.

After the form and supporting documents are filed at the appropriate address, USCIS will typically send a receipt notice within 30 days. USCIS may also send a Request for Evidence (RFE) if they need more information. Once Form I-129F is approved, USCIS will send an approval notice.

At this point, USCIS hands off the case to the U.S. Department of State. After the I-129F fiancé sponsorship form is approved, the sponsored fiancé will receive a notice from the U.S. Embassy in their home country, including the date and location of their visa interview and a list of required documents.

Next, the sponsored fiancé must complete the State Department’s online DS-160 form (technically called the “ Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application ”). This is the actual K-1 visa application .

Do not forget to print the confirmation page once the form has been submitted online.

The State Department then requires the following documents:

Sponsored fiancé documents

• Two passport-style photos
• Birth certificate
• Valid, unexpired passport
• Police clearance obtained from all countries of residence of more than six months since the age of 16
• Sealed medical exam form (obtained through physician abroad who is authorized by the State Department)

U.S. citizen fiancé documents

• Affidavit of support ( Form I-134 )
• Most recent tax returns
• Proof of relationship (copy of the approved I-129F package originally filed with USCIS)

The K-1 visa interview

The fiancé visa interview takes place at the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate in the sponsored fiancé’s home country, usually about 4–6 weeks after the embassy’s initial notice.

The interviewing officer will typically make a decision on the case either the same day of the interview or shortly afterward. If they need additional evidence, they will request that it be submitted directly to the U.S. consulate.

Step 3: Arrival and marriage!

Once requirements are met and the K-1 visa is approved, the sponsored fiancé is given a total of six months from the date of approval of the initial I-129F form to travel to the United States.

Upon arrival, the couple must marry within 90 days, or the sponsored fiancé will lose K-1 status. If the couple decides not to get married, the sponsored partner will not be eligible to remain in the United States and must leave the country immediately.

Unlike other visas, the K-1 does not allow for a change to another travel visa (F-1, H-1B, etc.). It’s also forbidden to “ adjust status ” from a K-1 visa to a marriage-based green card to anyone other than the original U.S. citizen sponsor. The sole purpose of the K-1 visa is for the sponsored fiancé to enter the United States to join the sponsoring fiancé and get married within 90 days.

After getting married, the final step is to apply for a marriage-based green card, which will be sponsored by the partner who originally sponsored the K-1 fiancé visa. Check out our overview of the marriage green card process , plus our start-to-finish guide for spouses of U.S. citizens living in the United States .

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Yes, but only if, after you arrive in the U.S., you apply and are approved for a work permit by completing Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) .

Like the K-1 visa, this employment authorization is only valid for 90 days, starting when you arrive in the U.S.

If you choose to apply for permanent residency after you arrive and file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status), you can include Form I-765 with your application. This would grant you work authorization for one year.

No. The K-1 visa automatically expires after 90 days.

No. The K-1 visa is only open to the fiancés of U.S. citizens. If your partner is a green card holder, they will only be able to petition for your entry if you are already married.

After you’ve entered the U.S. on a K-1 visa and married your partner, you will need to file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) to become a permanent resident. Boundless has prepared a guide to adjusting your status , so you can understand the next steps in this process.

Yes, you will need to submit Form I-134 when applying for a K-1 visa.

If you are the fiancé of a U.S. citizen, you can apply for a K-1 visa. If you are the spouse of a U.S. citizen, historically you could apply for a K-3 visa. In recent years, the K-3 visa has been issued on a case-by-case basis. The common path for married couples when one partner lives abroad is the CR-1 spousal visa, which is available to partners of U.S. citizens and green card holders.

According to USCIS , consular posts have been authorized to prioritize K visas. You should check the website of your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for the latest information.

If your U.S. citizen partner has filed Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)) for you and this petition is set to expire, you may be able to extend the form and avoid having to file a new petition.

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Update April 12, 2024

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Nonimmigrant Visa for a Fianc(é)e (K-1)

Important notice:.

Important Information for Syrian applicants processing in Amman, Jordan :  Interviews are scheduled by the U.S. Embassy in Amman, Jordan in order to help facilitate entry into Jordan. This applies to all K visa petitions received at the National Visa Center for Syrian applicants currently residing in Syria. 

Important Notice :  Effective December 1, 2017, the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi will no longer process K visas. The U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai will be the interview location for all K visas in India. This change applies to all K visa petitions received at the National Visa Center  on  or  after  December 1, 2017. 

Important Notice: Same-sex Marriage

Same-sex spouses of U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs), along with their minor children, are now eligible for the same immigration benefits as opposite-sex spouses. Consular officers at U.S. Embassies and Consulates will adjudicate their immigrant visa applications upon receipt of an approved I-130 or I-140  petition from  USCIS . For further information, please see our  FAQ’s .

• Overview: What is a K-1 Visa?
• What Is a "Fiancé(e)"?

The International Marriage Broker Regulation Act of 2005 (IMBRA)

The first step: filing the petition, the second step: applying for a visa, required documentation, review additional u.s. embassy/consulate-specific instructions, medical examination and vaccination requirements, proof of financial support and affidavit of support forms, do the same income requirements apply to form i-134 as apply to form i-864.

• Fees - How Much Does a K Visa Cost?

Rights and Protections - Pamphlet

• My Petition Expired - Can It Be Extended?
• Ineligibilities for Visas - What if I Am Ineligible for a K visa?

How Long Will It Take to Get My K Visa?

After you receive a k-1 fiancé(e) visa, does my u.s. citizen fiancé(e) need to file separate petitions for my children, are my children required to travel with me.

• Entering the United States: Port-of-Entry

Adjustment of Status, Working in the United States, and Traveling Outside of the United States

How to apply for a social security number card, when you are a permanent resident, further questions, overview: what is a k-1 visa.

The fiancé(e) K-1 nonimmigrant visa is for the foreign-citizen fiancé(e) of a United States (U.S.) citizen.  The K-1 visa permits the foreign-citizen fiancé(e) to travel to the United States and marry his or her U.S. citizen sponsor within 90 days of arrival.  The foreign-citizen will then apply for adjustment of status to a permanent resident (LPR) with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Because a fiancé(e) visa permits the holder to immigrate to the U.S. and marry a U.S. citizen shortly after arrival in the United States, the fiancé(e) must meet some of the requirements of an immigrant visa. Eligible children of K-1 visa applicants receive K-2 visas.

What Is a “Fiancé(e)”?

Under U.S. immigration law, a foreign-citizen fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen is the recipient of an approved Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), Form I-129F, who has been issued a nonimmigrant K-1 visa for travel to the United States in order to marry his or her U.S. citizen fiancé(e). Both the U.S. citizen and the K-1 visa applicant must have been legally free to marry at the time the petition was filed and must have remained so thereafter. The marriage must be legally possible according to laws of the U.S. state in which the marriage will take place.

In general, the foreign-citizen fiancé(e) and U.S. citizen sponsor must have met in person within the past two years. USCIS may grant an exception to this requirement, based on extreme hardship for the U.S. citizen sponsor to personally meet the foreign-citizen fiancé(e), or, for example, if it is contrary in the U.S. citizen sponsor’s or foreign-citizen fiancé(e)’s culture for a man and woman to meet before marriage.

Detailed information about IMBRA requirements is contained in the  Form I-129F , Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), instructions.

• You, the U.S. citizen sponsor, must file  Form I-129F , Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), with the USCIS office that serves the area where you live. See  Direct Filing Addresses for Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)  for information on where to file the petition. Further information is available on the USCIS website under  Fiancé(e) Visas .  Note: Form I-129F cannot be filed at a U.S. Embassy, Consulate, or USCIS office abroad.
• After USCIS approves the petition, it is sent to the  National Visa Center (NVC) . The NVC will give you a case number and send your petition to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where your fiancé(e) lives.

The NVC will mail you a letter when it sends your fiancé(e) case to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Once you receive this letter, inform your fiancé(e) to take the below-listed actions to apply for a K-1 visa and prepare for the interview.

Eligible children of K-1 visa applicants may apply for K-2 visas. Separate applications must be submitted for each K visa applicant, and each K visa applicant must pay the visa application fee.

You, the foreign-citizen fiancé(e), (and eligible children applying for K-2 visas) will be required to bring the following forms and documents to the visa interview:

• Completed  Form DS-160 , Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application . You (and any eligible children applying for K-2 visas) must: (1) complete Form DS-160 and (2) print the DS-160 confirmation page to bring to your interview. 
• A passport valid for travel  to the United States and with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the U.S. (unless  country-specific agreements  provide exemptions).
• Birth certificate .
• Divorce or death certificate(s ) of any previous spouse(s) for both you and the U.S. citizen sponsor
• Police certificates  from your present country of residence and all countries where you have lived for six months or more since age 16 (Police certificates are also required for accompanying children age 16 or older)
• Medical examination  (vaccinations are optional, see below)
• Evidence of financial support  ( Form I-134 , Affidavit of Support, may be requested)
• Two (2) 2x2 photographs . See the required photo format explained in  Photograph Requirements
• Evidence of relationship  with your U.S. citizen fiancé(e)
• Payment of fees,  as explained below

Note:  The consular officer may ask for additional information, such as photographs and other proof that the relationship with your U.S. citizen fiancé(e) is genuine. Documents in foreign languages, other than the language of the country in which the application takes place, should be translated. Applicants should take to the visa interview clear, legible photocopies of civil documents and translations, such as birth and divorce certificates. Original documents and translations will be returned.

There may be additional instructions for collecting documentation needed for your K visa interview. Review U.S. Embassy/Consulate-Specific Instructions  here , to learn what additional requirements there are, if any.

In preparing for the interview, applicants will need to schedule and complete a medical examination. Before the issuance of an immigrant or K visa, every applicant, regardless of age, must undergo a medical examination which  must be performed  by an authorized panel physician. You will be provided instructions regarding medical examinations from the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply for your visa, including information on authorized panel physicians. See  Medical Examination  for more information, including a list of panel physicians by country, and frequently asked questions.

K visa applicants are encouraged to get the vaccinations required under U.S. immigration law for immigrant visa applicants.  Although such vaccinations are not required for K visa issuance, they will be required when adjusting status to that of legal permanent resident following your marriage. Applicants are therefore encouraged to fulfill these vaccination requirements at the time of the medical examination. See  Vaccination Requirements for IV Applicants  for the list of required vaccinations and additional information.

During the visa interview, applicants will be required to present evidence to the consular officer that they are not likely to become a public charge in the United States. You may present evidence that you are able to financially support yourself or that your U.S. citizen fiancé(e) is able to provide support. The Consular Officer may request that a  Form I-134 , Affidavit of Support be submitted by the U.S. citizen fiancé(e).

The U.S. citizen fiancé(e) will need to submit Form I-864 to USCIS with the application for adjustment of status to that of legal permanent resident following the marriage.

No. The 125 percent of the federal poverty guideline minimum income requirement, the most recent year's tax return, and other requirements only apply when Form I-864 is needed. Applicants presenting Form I-134 will need to show that their U.S. sponsor's income is 100 percent of the federal poverty guideline.

Fees are charged for the following services: 

• Filing an Alien Fiancé(e) Petition, Form I-129F
• Nonimmigrant visa application processing fee, Form DS-160 (required for each K visa applicant)
• Medical examination (required for each K visa applicant; costs vary from post to post)
• Other costs may include translation and photocopying charges, fees for getting the documents required for the visa application (such as passport, police certificates, birth certificates, etc.), and travel expenses to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for an interview. Costs vary from country to country and case to case.
• Filing  Form I-485 , Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status

For current fees for Department of State, see  Fees for Visa Services . For current fees for USCIS, see  Check Filing Fees  on the USCIS website.

You should read the  Rights and Protections pamphlet  before your visa interview to learn about your rights in the United States relating to domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse and protection available to you. The consular officer will verbally summarize the pamphlet to you during your interview. Additionally, K-1 visa applicants will be provided with any existing criminal background information on their U.S. citizen fiancé(e)s that USCIS received from other government agencies during processing of their Form I-129F petitions.

My Petition Expired – Can It Be Extended?

The I-129F petition is valid for four months from the date of approval by USCIS. A consular officer can extend the validity of the petition if it expires before visa processing is completed.

Ineligibilities for Visas

Certain conditions and activities may make you, the applicant, ineligible for a visa. Examples of these ineligibilities include: drug trafficking;  overstaying  a previous visa; and submitting fraudulent documents.

If you are ineligible for a visa, you will be informed by the Consular Officer and advised whether there is a  waiver  of the ineligibility and what the waiver process is. Learn more and see the complete list of  ineligibilities .

For Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), you can visit the USCIS website for the status of your  petition .

Once your case has been received from NVC by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate that will process it, the length of time varies from case to case according to its circumstances. Some cases are delayed because applicants do not follow instructions carefully or supply incomplete information. (It is important to give us correct postal addresses and telephone numbers.) Some visa applications require further  administrative processing , which takes additional time after the visa applicant's interview by a Consular Officer.

If you are issued a K-1 visa, the Consular Officer will give you your passport containing the K-1 visa and a sealed packet containing the civil documents you provided, plus other documents prepared by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. It is important that you  do not open the sealed packet . Only the DHS immigration official should open this packet when you enter the United States. As the K-1 visa holder, you must enter the United States either before or at the same time as any qualifying children holding K-2 visas.

With your visa, you can apply for a single admission at a U.S. port-of-entry within the validity of the visa, which will be a maximum of 6 months from the date of issuance.  You must marry your U.S. citizen fiancé(e) within 90 days of your entry into the United States.

No. Your eligible children may apply for K-2 visas based on the approval of Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), that your U.S. citizen fiancé(e) filed on your behalf, but your U.S. citizen fiancé(e) must list the children on the petition. Separate visa applications must be submitted for each K-2 visa applicant, and each applicant must pay the K visa application fee.

After your marriage, your children will need to file separately from you for adjustment of status. They cannot be included on your application for adjustment of status. More information about adjustment of status is available on USCIS’s website under  Green Card (Permanent Residence) .

Important Notice:  Under U.S. immigration law, a  child  must be unmarried. In order to file for adjustment of status for your child following your marriage to your U.S. citizen spouse, the child’s stepchild relationship with your spouse must be created before the child reaches the age of 18.

Your children may travel with (accompany) you to the United States or travel later (follow-to-join). Like you, your children must travel within the validity of their K-2 visas. Separate petitions are not required if the children accompany or follow to join you within one year from the date of issuance of your K-1 visa. If they want to travel later than one year from the date your K-1 visa was issued, they will not be eligible to receive K-2 visas, and separate immigrant visa petitions will be required. If your child has a valid K-2 visa and you have already adjusted status to that of permanent resident, your child may still travel on the K-2 visa.

Entering the United States: Port of Entry

A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to the U.S. port-of-entry and request permission to enter the United States. You should be aware that a visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials have authority to permit or deny admission to the U.S. Upon arrival at the port-of-entry, be prepared to present to the CBP officer your passport with visa and your unopened/sealed packet containing your documents. Travelers should review important information about admissions and entry requirements on the CBP website under  Travel .

Information for K-1/K-2 visa holders about adjustment of status, permission to work in the United States, and travel outside of the United States is available on the USCIS website under  Fiancé(e) Visas .

To learn about applying for a Social Security Number Card, visit the website for the  Social Security Administration .

Coming to the United States to live permanently, you will want to learn more about your status as a  Lawful Permanent Resident . See  Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants  to review information on the USCIS website about living in the United States.

• If your inquiry concerns a visa case in progress at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate, you should first contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate handling your case for status information. Select  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  to review their website for contact information.
• Before making an inquiry, we request that you carefully review this website. Often, the answers to questions are easily found which enables us to help other applicants and U.S. sponsors in need of assistance. Due to the volume of inquiries we receive, Visa Services cannot promise an immediate reply to your inquiry.
• You can find contact information for our Public Inquiries Division at  Contact Us .

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K1 Visa Checklist

Here is a checklist to help you plan for your K1 visa application:

1. Visiting Your fiancé

• Take time-stamped photos together
• Take time-stamped photos with fiancé's friends & family
• Keep your boarding passes
• Keep receipts from restaurants & stores
• Get to know details about your fiancé
• Gather documents for USCIS filing (see below)

2. USCIS Filing

• Form I-129F
• Form G-1145
• $535 check for the filing fee
• Cover letter
• Statements of intent to marry
• Primary proof of meeting in person within the last 2 years
• Passport photos (petitioner and beneficiary)
• Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate)
• Evidence of all previous marriages ending (ie. death certificate/divorce decree)
• Proof of legal name change (if applicable)
• Certified copies of police & court convictions, in compliance with IMBRA
• Send via trackable mail or courier
• Embassy Phase
• DS-160 Form
• Passport with at least 6 months of validity left on it
• Divorce documents of previous marriages (both parties)
• Police certificates from current residence country
• Police certificates from other residence countries lived for 6+ months
• Medical exam
• Vaccinations records
• Evidence of financial support (I-134)
• Alien birth certificate
• Affidavit of support (if requested by embassy)
• Evidence of relationship
• $265 embassy fee

3. After Visa Granted

• Travel to USA
• Marry within 90 days
• File adjustment of status (green card)

NOTE: If you are a RapidVisa customer, a more detailed, customized checklist will be generated based on your information.

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Home » Blog » K-1 Visa Interview Checklist: How to Prepare and What to Take to the Appointment

K-1 Visa Interview Checklist: How to Prepare and What to Take to the Appointment

February 6, 2024 Apply for Green Card

Although the K-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa, the interview and requirements are slightly different that typical nonimmigrant visas. A K-1 fiancé visa typically leads to permanent immigration to the United States. Therefore, the fiancé must meet some of the requirements of an immigrant visa. Our K-1 visa interview checklist will help you prepare for this important day.

In fact, CitizenPath helps you prepare the K-1 Visa Petition Package so that everything is submitted correctly. Our software makes it simple to prepare Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé, and you'll receive a customized checklist of supporting documents to submit with it. This ensures smooth processing and peace of mind while you await approval. Then, use the K-1 visa interview checklist below to get prepared for your consular appointment.

What happens before reaching an interview? Who attends a K-1 visa interview? What is on the checklist of items I should take to the interview? Which questions should I prepare for? What happens next? How can CitizenPath help me?

Before the Interview

Well before the embassy schedules an interview, the U.S. citizen sponsor initiates the process by filing Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé , with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Upon approval, USCIS forwards your case to the National Visa Center, a central hub for coordinating cases with U.S. embassies and consulates abroad. The NVC will instruct the foreign national beneficiary to submit the visa application through the U.S. State Department website.

In preparing for the interview, K-1 applicants will need to schedule and complete a medical examination performed by an authorized panel physician. You will be provided instructions regarding medical examinations from the U.S. embassy or consulate where you will apply for your visa, including information on authorized panel physicians.

Who Should Attend the K-1 Visa Interview

The foreign national who is applying for the K-1 visa – as well as any K-2 children included on the same I-129F petition – should attend the K-1 visa interview. Typically, the U.S. citizen sponsor is not allowed to attend. However, some U.S. embassies or consulates may allow the U.S. sponsor to attend. Check with the U.S. embassy near you for specific rules about K-1 visa interviews.

Consular officials at the U.S. embassy or consulate generally live in that country. They also speak the local language and understand local culture. So you can rest assured that you'll be understood.

K-1 Visa Interview Checklist: What to Take to Your Interview

Attend your K-1 fiancé visa interview with all of the petitions, approvals and supporting documents from your case. This includes documents from the U.S. citizen sponsor (fiancé). You won’t need most of these items. But having them could help avoid delays if the document is needed.

When you attend the K-1 visa interview, it’s recommended that you take the following documents with you:

DS-160 Confirmation

You (and any eligible children applying for K-2 visas) must submit Form DS-160 electronically on the U.S. State Department website. Print the confirmation page that shows you have successfully completed Form DS-160 and take it to the interview.

Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé

A complete photocopy of the K-1 fiancé visa petition (Form I-129F) that the U.S. citizen petitioner filed with USCIS. This should include original copies of all supporting documents submitted in connection with Form I-129F.

Form I-797, Notice of Action (petition approval notice)

A photocopy of the USCIS letter than approved the I-129F petition.

Valid passport

The passport should have a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the U.S. (unless country-specific agreements provide exemptions).

Medical Examination

The K-1 beneficiary’s exam results (and optional vaccinations) should be inside an unopened envelope (provided by the physician), unless the results were sent directly to the consulate.

Form I-134, Declaration of Financial Support

An original Form I-134 signed by the U.S. citizen petitioner in black ink and all supporting documents to be submitted with the declaration. Typical documents include a copy of the U.S. citizen petitioner’s most recent federal tax return and paycheck stubs.

Passport-style photos

Submit two passport-style color photos of yourself taken within 30 days of attending the interview. The photo should:

• Be 2” x 2” in size
• Maintain head height of 1” to 1 3/8” from top of hair to bottom of chin
• Maintain eye height between 1 1/8” to 1 3/8” from bottom of photo
• Have bare head unless you are wearing a headdress as required by a religious order of which you are a member (face must be visible)
• Have a white to off-white background
• Be printed on thin paper with a glossy finish
• Not be mounted or retouched

Write your name and birth date lightly in pencil on the back of each photo.

Birth certificate

An original full-form birth certificate. Generally, an acceptable birth certificate must be issued by the appropriate local government agency or civil authority, be in full-form (and not an excerpt or short-form).

Divorce or death certificate of any previous spouse

If either you or your U.S. citizen sponsor were previously married, you must submit evidence to prove the legal termination of the prior marriage(s). Evidence of termination of previous marriages may include a divorce decree, annulment, or death certificate issued by a civil authority. Take original copies of the relevant documents.

Police clearance certificate

A police clearance certificate from your present country of residence and all countries where you have lived for six months or more since age 16. (Police certificates are also required for any K-2 children age 16 or older.)

Evidence of valid relationship with the petitioner

An updated statement of your intent to marry and proof that you have a valid relationship. If you used CitizenPath to prepare Form I-129F, update your K-1 declaration . Include recent pictures together, emails, phone bills, and even wedding arrangements to prove the relationship is still ongoing.

Payment of fees

By the time of the interview, you have likely paid all fees associated with the I-129F petition, DS-160 and medical exam. These are the most significant K-1 related costs .

Review the instructions that you receive from the U.S. embassy or consulate. The documents requested may vary slightly.

Documents in foreign languages, other than the language of the country in which the interview takes place, should be translated. Original documents and translations will be returned. In many cases, consular officials may not request some of the items on this K-1 visa interview checklist. Our position is that it is better to attend the interview prepared. If a document is needed and you do not have it, your visa could be significantly delayed.

The K-1 visa interview checklist includes a significant number of documents. Organize them in a way that you can easily find them during the K-1 interview. If the consular officer requests a document, you’ll need to produce it quickly.

K-1 Interview Questions

Although it’s not on the K-1 visa interview checklist, getting ready for the interview questions is another important component of preparation. When it comes to visas sponsored by fiancés or spouses, consular officials dive deep into your personal history with the individual. They want to know that it’s a real marriage.

Don't overthink the interview. Generally, it's best to answer honestly and share your experience. If you feel as though there is something in your history or background that you cannot share, that's a good sign you should speak to an immigration attorney before attending the interview.

If you want to help the consular officer appreciate the genuineness of your relationship, share experiences with your fiancé's family and friends or talk about your fiancé's time with your family and friends. This may include a holiday or special event. Experiences like this demonstrate that you have a deeper relationship than just a long-distance chat.

Fiancé Visa Interview Questions: What K-1 Visa Applicants Can Expect

Staying in the u.s. after the k-1 entry.

The K-1 visa permits the foreign national to travel to the United States and marry their U.S. citizen sponsor within 90 days of arrival. Once married, the foreign national spouse may apply for adjustment of status to a permanent resident (green card holder).

While adjustment of status isn't a part of your K-1 interview, it is something to think about. What preparations are you making to immigrate permanently to the United States? Your future plans may come up in the interview. These are signs that you're serious about marriage and becoming a permanent resident of the United States.

Adjustment of Status Through a K-1 Visa Entry

About citizenpath.

CitizenPath provides simple, affordable, step-by-step guidance through USCIS immigration applications. Individuals, attorneys and non-profits use the service on desktop or mobile device to prepare immigration forms accurately, avoiding costly delays. CitizenPath allows users to try the service for free and provides a 100% money-back guarantee that USCIS will approve the application or petition. We provide support for the K-1 Visa Petition Package (Form I-129F) , Non-immigrant Support Package (Form I-134) , Adjustment of Status Package (Form I-485) , and several other immigration services .

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What Supporting Document Do You Need for a K-1 Fiance Visa?

If you are a U.S. citizen, you can sponsor your fiance for a K-1 Fiance Visa. A K-1 Visa will allow your fiance to travel to the U.S. to marry you and then apply for a Marriage Green Card through adjustment of status. Permanent residents (Green Card holders) cannot apply for K-1 Fiance Visas. U.S. Immigration law requires K-1 Fiance Visa applicants to submit supporting documents to the U.S. Government when they apply for a K-1 Visa. This article provides checklists of the supporting documents you will need to collect for each of the three steps of the K-1 Fiance Visa application process.

Written by Jonathan Petts .  Updated October 19, 2022

Checklist #1 - Before you file

There are certain things you will need to do before you file. These steps often require planning and time to complete, so it is good to start working on them a few months before you file your Fiance Visa application.

The five things you will need to do before you file are:

Visit your fiance at least once in the two years before you file . You need to do this unless visiting would cause either of you extreme hardship or would violate your cultural, religious, or social norms. Most people need to satisfy this requirement.

Take 10-15 time-stamped photos of you and your fiance . These should cover as much of the time you have been together as possible. The more pictures you take, the better.

Take time-stamped photos with your fiance's friends and family . These will help prove that you are trying to build a lasting relationship with your fiance. Again, the more photos, the better.

Gather proof of the time you've spent with your fiance . This evidence includes boarding passes, itineraries, hotel receipts, restaurant receipts, store receipts, and other evidence of the time you spent with your fiance. The more evidence you provide, the better.

Gather communication records . Gather a sample of phone call records, text messages, emails, etc., from throughout your relationship that show your relationship has been ongoing.

Get your friends and family to vouch for you . Written statements in support of your marriage from friends, family, and colleagues who are aware of the engagement will help your application. These should typically be in letter form, signed, and, if possible, notarized if possible. Here is a template of a support letter that you can use.

Checklist #2 - I-129F Supporting Documents

The second thing that you will need to do to get a K-1 Fiance Visa is to file Form I-129F, "Petition for Alien Fiancé(e) ." This form is also known as a "Fiance Visa petition." The U.S. citizen petitioner will file this form with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). There are four types of required documents that you need to file with Form I-129F. Do not send original documents unless the form instructions tell you to. If you submit any documents (copies or original documents) in a foreign language, you must include a full English translation of those documents. The translation needs to include a certification from the translator that the translation is complete and accurate and that the translator is competent to translate from the foreign language to English. You and your fiance cannot translate your own documents.

You should submit these four things and a cover letter with Form I-129F when you file:

1. Evidence the sponsoring fiance is a U.S. citizen

Their U.S. birth certificate , issued by a civil registrar, vital statistics office, or other civil authority, or

Their naturalization or citizenship certificate issued by USCIS or the former Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), or

Their Form FS-240 , Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) , issued by a U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate, or

Their unexpired U.S. passport , or

An original statement from a U.S. consular officer verifying that they are a U.S. citizen.

2. Evidence that both fiances terminated any previous marriages (if applicable)

A divorce decree ,

An annulment order , or

A death certificate for the deceased spouse

3. Miscellaneous Evidence

One color passport-style photograph of the U.S citizen fiance taken within 30 days of filing this petition

One color passport-style photograph of the sponsored fiancé taken within 30 days of filing this petition

Evidence that either fiance has legally changed their name (if applicable)

Evidence to support an IMBRA waiver (if applicable - this does not apply to most people).

A copy of all Form I-94 arrival-departure records the sponsored fiancé has received over the years.

Two sworn statements , one from each fiance, that include a brief description of your relationship and your intent to get married within 90 days after the sponsored fiance enters the United States on their Fiance Visa. It’s a good idea to provide the original signed statements and keep copies for your records. Here is a template for your intent to marry statements .

Evidence that you met in-person at least once in the two years before filing your Form I-129F . If you haven’t met during that period, submit evidence that meeting in-person would violate strict customs of the sponsored fiance's culture or would be an extreme hardship for the U.S. citizen fiance.

4. Filing Fee

You will need to pay the $535 I-129F filing fee when you submit your petition to USCIS. This fee changes from time to time - you can find the current fee on USCIS's fee schedule . You can pay the fee with a money order, personal check, or cashier’s check made payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. If you file with a USCIS Lockbox facility, you may also pay by credit card using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions . USCIS Service centers can't process credit card payments .

‍We can help you prepare the paperwork for your Form I-129F petition for free with our simple web application.

Checklist #3: DS-160 Supporting Documents

The third thing that you will need to do to get a K-1 Fiance Visa is to file Form DS-160, the "Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application." There are five types of required documents that you will need to provide after you file the DS-160. Unless the National Visa Center ("NVC") or the embassy/consulate handling your case says otherwise, the sponsored fiance should bring these items to their visa interview.

Do not provide original documents unless the NVC or Consulate/Embassy handling your case tells you to. If you submit any documents (copies or original documents) in a foreign language, you must include a full English translation of those documents. The translation needs to include a certification from the translator that the translation is complete and accurate and that the translator is competent to translate from the foreign language to English. You and your fiance cannot translate your own documents.

Documents from the sponsored fiance

A printout of their Form DS-160 confirmation page. The sponsored fiance must print their DS-160 confirmation page to bring to the visa interview.

Their valid passport. The passport must be valid for at least six months after their intended period of stay in the U.S. (unless their country-specific agreements provide say otherwise).

Their birth certificate. This must be their official birth certificate issued by a government agency in the country where they were born.

Official proof that their previous marriages have ended. This includes things like divorce, annulment, or death certificate(s) for all former spouses.

Police certificates from the country where they currently live and all countries where they have lived for six months or more since they were 16 years old. You can get a police clearance certificate from the relevant authority in each country . The U.S. Department of Status ("DoS") explains how to get police clearance certificates from each country on its website. On the DoS website , select the first letter of the country’s name, select the country, and click on the “Police, Court, Prison Records” tab.

Their sealed medical examination records. The sponsored fiance will get these records from a doctor abroad who is authorized by the State Department (a "panel physician") during their required immigration medical exam. The U.S. Embassy or Consulate handling the case will send information about this examination a few weeks after receiving the DS-160. The U.S. State Department provides helpful info about the Medical Examination Process on its website.

Two passport-style photos . The sponsored fiance must provide two passport-style photos that meet the photograph requirements explained on the State Department's website.

Documents from both fiances

Evidence that the sponsored fiance will not become a "Public Charge."   During their visa interview, the sponsored fiance will need to show the consular officer that they will not become a " Public Charge " once they arrive in the United States. Supporting evidence includes things like the sponsored fiance's tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements . The sponsored fiance can either prove that they can support themselves or show that their U.S. citizen fiancé can support them. The Consular Officer may require the sponsored fiance to provide a Form I-134 , Affidavit of Support completed by the U.S. citizen fiance. Form I-134 also requires evidence of financial support - things like the U.S. Citizen Fiance's tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements. You never know if the consular officer will require Form I-134, so it is always good to bring a completed I-134 to the interview .

Evidence of relationship. The consular officer will need the sponsored fiance to prove that they plan to marry their U.S. citizen fiance. The easiest way to show this is to bring a copy of the approved I-129F package to the interview.

The Immigration Visa Filing Fee

There is a $265 filing fee for a K-1 Fiance Visa , and you can pay it at the visa interview with a check or money order. In many cases, you can also pay this fee online with a debit card or credit card after you file your DS-160. If you pay the fee online, the sponsored fiance will need to bring the online receipt to the visa interview . It’s essential to review the specific instructions about payment on the interview notice that the embassy or consulate sends when they schedule the visa interview. This fee changes from time to time. For a list of the current fees for the Department of State, check out the Fees for Visa Services page of their website.

Documents proving your relationship is legitimate

The consular officer may ask the sponsored fiance for additional information to prove that your relationship is legitimate . This is why you'll want to have all of the items outlined above in "Checklist #1 - Before you file." The sponsored fiance should bring these items to their visa interview.

U.S. Embassy/Consulate-Specific Requirements

The embassy or consulate handling your case may require the sponsored fiance to bring documents not listed above to the visa interview. Check the interview notice that they send you for specific requirements. You can also review U.S. Embassy/Consulate-Specific Instructions online to learn what additional requirements your embassy or consulate has.

Continue reading and learning!

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Optional Checklist for Form I-129F (Alien Fiancé(e)/K-1)

This is an optional checklist to assist petitioners with filing Form I-129F.  Do not submit this checklist to USCIS.

NOTE: This optional checklist does not replace or change statutory or regulatory requirements. We recommend that you review these requirements, as well as the appropriate form instructions, before completing and submitting Form I-129F. Do not send original documents unless specifically requested in the form instructions. See uscis.gov/I-129F for the most recent version of the Form I-129F and its instructions.

Did you complete all sections of the form that apply to you?

Did you sign and date the form?

Did you submit the correct fee?

Did you provide the following?

• Photographs.
• Proof of your U.S. citizenship.
• Proof or original statements of intent to marry from both you and your fiancé(e).
• Proof of legal termination of all prior marriages for both you and your fiancé(e).
• Proof that you and your fiancé(e) have met in person within two years before filing Form I-129F.
• Completed Form G-28 (only if you are represented by an attorney or an accredited representative).
• Certified English translations of any non-English documents.

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• Adjustment of Status (Green Card) from K1 and K3 Family Based Visas

AOS- Cover Letter

By MASH January 19, 2016 in Adjustment of Status (Green Card) from K1 and K3 Family Based Visas

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8 posts in this topic

Recommended posts, mash   172.

Hey everyone , I finally got all the paperwork to mail my AOS

Just need abit of help of doing my cover letter and how to go about sending it off

Like do I put it all in 1 binder or in 3 diff binders and how did everyone make there cover letter plus what is the address you mail the information to

Citizenship Journey:

K-1 Visa - Citizenship:  04/14/2015 - 09/20/22

7 Years 5 Months 0 Weeks 6 Days 10 Hours 30 Minutes 0 Seconds

US Passport Journey:   (Expedited) 

USPS Passport Appointment: September 29th, 2022

Passport Office Received Documents: October 3rd, 2022

Passport Application Approved:  October 19th, 2022

Passport Received:  October 21st, 2022

FULL JOURNEY ADVENTURE:

https://www.visajourney.com/timeline/profile.php?id=215312

DECEMBER 2022 N400 FILERS: (Update To Help Your Fellow Filers)

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/11xHTs0yLIeoAXIW-O5iYOvRRvbriVgu7JVw8xQq8QDw/edit#gid=0

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SunflowerSweet   1,321

They don't want it in a binder, let alone 3 binders. Tips for assembling applications (which clearly say no binders...) can be found here:

https://www.uscis.gov/forms/forms-and-fees/general-tips-assembling-applications-mailing

Where you file can be found here:

http://www.uscis.gov/i-485-addresses

You are probably going to be sending it to Chicago.

**EDIT: Here is cover page info from the guides:

"Cover Page" Information: In the checklist above it is recommended that you include a Cover Page with your application. While this is optional, filing a cover page will help the USCIS understand what benefit your are applying for and specifically what items you have included in your package. Again, make sure the cover page includes: -- the applicants contact information (name, address, phone number) -- A description of the benefit you are applying for, ( Immediate Relative (Spouse) Family Based Adjustment of Status Application ) -- A table of contents listing the major items in your package (i.e. I-485 and evidence, I-765, I-131, etc) -- A line with the applicants signature and date

~*INTENT IS DETERMINED AT POE*~

Forever wishing for an eye-roll reaction.

K-1 Visa~ 9/28/2015 - I-129f Packet Mailed to Texas Lockbox 10/1/2015 - NOA 1 Email - I-129f sent to California Service Center 10/8/2015 - NOA 1 Hard Copy 10/27/2015 - NOA 2 11/21/2015 - Packet 3 Received 1/08/2916 - Medical! Lots of jabs >.> 2/23/2016 - APPROVED! 6/20/2016 - POE 7/29/2016 - Married ❤️

~*Approval 146 Days from NOA1*~

AOS ~ 9/9/2016 - AOS /AP/ EAD packet mailed to Chicago Lockbox 9/11/2016 - Delivered to Chicago Lockbox 9/20/2016 - Received Text/Email NOA1 9/23/2016 - Hard Copy NOA1s 10/12/2016 - Biometrics Appointment 11/04/2016 - AP Status "Approved" EAD "Date of Birth Updated" 11/18/2016 - Received EAD /AP Combo Card! 12/23/2016 - Received Green Card

~*Green Card 95 Days from NOA1*~

10/12/2018  - Mailed ROC Packet

11/8/2018  - NOA -1 

7/5/2019  - Biometrics

~*STILL WAITING 607+ Days since NOA *~

francais_usa   74

Use paper clips, not ACCO fasteners. No binders. Mail it to chicago lockbox.

K1 OVERALL: NO RFE and NO LAWYER! --------------------------------------------------------

POE TO GREEN CARD

☑ Packet Delivered via USPS Priority & Certified: 02-27-16

☑ Check cashed by USCIS: 03-03-16

☑ NOA1's by text (x3): 03-03-16

☑ NOA1 Hardcopies via Mail (x3): 03-07-16

☑ Biometric Appt. Letter Received: 03-18-16 (scheduled for 03/31/16, Raleigh, NC)

☑ Biometrics Appointment: 03-31-16; Raleigh, NC

☑" My Interview is Scheduled" Status Change: 04-12-16

☑ Received hardcopy of Interview Notice: 04-16-16

☑ EAD /AP Approval by Email: 04-26-16

☑ I797 Approval Notice for EAD and AP: 04-30-16

☑ I797 Approval Notice for Green Card: 05-23-16

GC OVERALL: NO RFE and NO LAWYER!

--------------------------------------------------------

ROC   OVERALL: NO RFE and NO LAWYER!

☑ "120 days out" letter: 01-24-18  ☑  Submitted ROC:   03-10-18  ☑  Package delivered:   03-14-18  ☑  Waived Biometrics:   05-08-18  ☑  Interview Date Set for 05/23/19:  05-07-19 (automatic approval!)  Card Received:

N400   OVERALL: NO RFE and NO LAWYER!

☑ Filing Date:   03/16/2019  ☑ NOA1:   03/16/2019  ☑ Biometrics Walk-In:   03/28/19 (originally scheduled for 04/08/19)  ☑  Interview Date Set for 05/23/19:   04/18/19 (automatic approval!)  ☑ Oath Ceremony:   07/17/19

is this a good cover letter, need your opinions

(full name)

[Address, City, ST ZIP Code] | [Telephone] |

January 19, 2016

USCIS PO Box 805887 Chicago, IL 60680-4120

Cover Letter

I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status

· Check: Payment in the amount of $1070 (I-485 Form Fee $985 and $85 Biometrics fee)

· Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status

· Copy of my passport (biographical page and entry stamps)

· Copy of my passport page with K-1 visa

· Copy of Form I-797 Notice of Action (Approval Notice for I-129F)

· Copy of Electronic Form I-94

· Copy of my foreign

· Copy of my foreign Birth certificate – translated from French to English

· of Marriage Certificate

· Form G-325A Biographic Information Sheet (K1 Applicant)

· Two (2) Passport size photos

· Form DS-3025 Vaccination Documentation

I-864 Affidavit of Support

· Cover letter from USC Spouse

· Form I-864 Affidavit of Support

· Copy of USC Spouse tax from 2012, 2013 & 2014

· USC Spouse W-2 from 2014

· Letter from USC Spouse Employer

· Copy of most recent pay stubs (6 total)

· Copy of U.S. Spouse passport page

I-765 Application for Employment Document

· Form I-765 for Employment Authorization

· Copy of my passport (biographical page)

I-131 Application for Travel Document

· Form I-131 Application for Travel Document

· Copy of Form I-797 Notice of Action (Approval Notice)

Thank you for helping me the both of you VJers is this a good cover letter, need your opinions (full name) [Address, City, ST ZIP Code] | [Telephone] | January 19, 2016 USCIS PO Box 805887 Chicago, IL 60680-4120 Cover Letter I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status Include the fact that you're adjusting from a Family Based K-1 Visa · Check: Payment in the amount of $1070 (I-485 Form Fee $985 and $85 Biometrics fee) · Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status · Copy of my passport (biographical page and entry stamps) · Copy of my passport page with K-1 visa · Copy of Form I-797 Notice of Action (Approval Notice for I-129F) · Copy of Electronic Form I-94 · Copy of my foreign · Copy of my foreign Birth certificate – translated from French to English Add another page attached to the translation that verifies the translation is legitimate based on your knowledge of English and French · of Marriage Certificate · Form G-325A Biographic Information Sheet (K1 Applicant) · Two (2) Passport size photos · Form DS-3025 Vaccination Documentation I-864 Affidavit of Support · Cover letter from USC Spouse · Form I-864 Affidavit of Support · Copy of USC Spouse tax from 2012, 2013 & 2014 · USC Spouse W-2 from 2014 · Letter from USC Spouse Employer · Copy of most recent pay stubs (6 total) · Copy of U.S. Spouse passport page I-765 Application for Employment Document · Form I-765 for Employment Authorization · Copy of my passport (biographical page) · Copy of my passport page with K-1 visa · Copy of Electronic Form I-94 · Two (2) Passport size photos I-131 Application for Travel Document · Form I-131 Application for Travel Document · Copy of my passport (biographical page) · Copy of my passport page with K-1 visa · Copy of Form I-797 Notice of Action (Approval Notice) · Copy of Electronic Form I-94 · Two (2) Passport size photos Sincerely, (full name)

Everything else looks good to me!

Abby&Colin   40

What is the documentation worksheet you have included under the I-485 ?!

Hold onto your hat its going to be a bumpy ride!!

Nvm I get it. It's apart of the DS-3025

• 3 years later...

Sam & Victoria   0

Guys, I really need help with something. My wife (US Citizen) live in different cities, so how do I put our addresses in the cover letter? PLease, can someone help me with this?

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