If you are a U.S. citizen and wish to bring your foreign fiancé(e) to the United States to marry, you must file Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e). This is the initial step to obtaining a K-1 nonimmigrant visa, also known as a fiancé(e) visa.
To qualify for a K-1 visa, both you and your fiancé(e) must plan to marry within 90 days of their arrival in the U.S. as a K-1 nonimmigrant. The marriage must be genuine, meaning you both have a sincere intention to establish a life together, and not for the purpose of securing immigration benefits.
Once your fiancé(e) marries you within 90 days of entering the U.S. as a K-1 visa holder, they may apply for lawful permanent resident status (Green Card).
If you have already married, plan to marry outside the U.S., or your fiancé(e) is already legally residing in the U.S., they are not eligible for a fiancé(e) visa. For more information on how to help your spouse apply for a Green Card, visit the “Bringing Spouses to Live in the United States as Permanent Residents” page.