How to Apply for a K3 Visa

A K-3 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows the spouse of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States while their immigrant visa application is pending. The K-3 visa is intended to shorten the physical separation between the U.S. citizen spouse and the foreign spouse, who is waiting for an immigrant visa to be issued in their home country. Here's how to apply for a K-3 visa:

1. File Form I-130: The first step in applying for a K-3 visa is for the U.S. citizen spouse to file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form establishes the relationship between the U.S. citizen spouse and the foreign spouse.

2. File Form I-129F: After the I-130 is filed, the U.S. citizen spouse should file Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), with the USCIS. This form is used to request a K-3 visa for the foreign spouse. Both the I-130 and I-129F petitions can be filed at the same time.

3. Submit supporting documents: Along with the I-129F petition, the U.S. citizen spouse must submit supporting documents, such as proof of citizenship, marriage certificate, and evidence of ongoing relationship.

4. Wait for approval: Once the USCIS receives the I-129F petition, they will review it and issue a decision. If the petition is approved, it will be forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC) for further processing.

5. Attend the visa interview: After the NVC receives the petition, they will schedule a visa interview for the foreign spouse at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. The foreign spouse must attend the interview and provide any additional requested documents.

6. Receive the K-3 visa: If the visa is approved, the foreign spouse will receive a K-3 visa in their passport. This visa allows them to enter the United States and stay for up to two years.

Note: It's important to remember that the K-3 visa is intended to be a temporary measure to reunite couples while their immigrant visa application is processed. After entering the U.S. on a K-3 visa, the foreign spouse should apply for adjustment of status to become a permanent resident.