Typically, a K-1 fiancé(e) visa allows for quicker entry into the United States, whereas a marriage-based visa (also called a spouse visa) accelerates the green card process. In 2024, the processing time for a K-1 visa application (Form I-129F) is 4-7 and the processing time for a CR-1 spousal green card is 10.8.
The basic steps through the spouse visa process are as follows: File I-130 Petition Package with USCIS. Obtain USCIS approval (or denial) on petition. Submit Affidavit of Support (I-864) and other documentation to National Visa Center. Pay and apply for immigrant visa (DS-260) Complete required medical exam.
- The processing time for U.S. citizens filing Form I-130 for a spouse beneficiary ranges from 13-54.5 months. - The processing time for legal permanent residents filing Form I-130 for a spouse beneficiary ranges from 32-67.5 months.
You'll need to provide: all your names. your date of birth. your current passport or other valid travel ID. copies of the photo page and any visa or entry stamps in your previous passports. your eVisa (online proof of your immigration status) or a copy of your biometric residence permit (BRP) if you have either of them.
Typically, a K-1 fiancé(e) visa allows for quicker entry into the United States, whereas a marriage-based visa (also called a spouse visa) accelerates the green card process. In 2024, the processing time for a K-1 visa application (Form I-129F) is 4-7 and the processing time for a CR-1 spousal green card is 10.8.
Immigrant visa for a Spouse of a U.S. Citizen (IR1 or CR1) - An immigrant Petition for Alien Relative, Form I-130 is required.
Below are the key steps involved: Meet all of the requirements. Marriage to a U.S. citizen: The applicant must be legally married to a U.S. citizen spouse who is over the age of 18. File the Petition (Form I-130) ... USCIS Processing. National Visa Center (NVC) Processing. Medical Examination. Consular Interview.
You must file a separate Form I-130 for each eligible relative unless they can be considered a derivative beneficiary. See the form instructions for more information. If you submit a petition for your spouse, you must also submit Form I-130A, Supplemental Information for Spouse Beneficiary.