The K-1 nonimmigrant visa or fiancé(e) visa allows you, as a U.S. citizen, to bring your foreign fiancé(e) to the United States to get married. If your petition is approved, your fiancé (e) can enter the country. However, several strict conditions must be met for an approved fiancé(e) visa to remain valid. One is the 90-day deadline.
Here is what to know about this requirement:
90 days to legally marry each other
You and your fiancé(e) must intend to marry each other within 90 days of them entering the U.S. as a K-1 nonimmigrant. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) starts counting from the day your fiancé(e) is admitted to the U.S – the entry day counts as day one. You have exactly 90 days from this day to legally marry each other.
The USCIS cannot extend the 90-day K-1 fiancé visa timeframe for any reason. Thus, it’s crucial to be prepared. For instance, start planning before your fiancé(e) arrives, especially if you want to have a traditional ceremony. Have a wedding date, pay deposits to vendors, book an ordained officiant and so on. If you will be having a civil ceremony, familiarize yourself with the process.
Moreover, once your fiancé(e) arrives, go obtain the marriage license early to avoid last-minute rushes.
Early preparation can reduce the chances of encountering delays that can threaten your fiancé (e)’s eligibility to be in the country. If you are not legally married within the 90-day timeframe, the K-1 visa status automatically expires. Your fiancé (e) will fall out of legal status immediately. Consequently, remaining in the country means accruing unlawful presence.
It’s crucial to understand the fiancé (e) visa to avoid costly mistakes. Get more information to make informed decisions throughout the process.