K1 Visa Requirements

The K1 visa, also known as the Fiancé(e) visa, is a nonimmigrant visa category that allows a foreign national fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States for the purpose of getting married. The visa process is handled by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and involves several requirements. If you are in Thailand and planning to apply for a K1 visa, here are the detailed requirements you need to fulfill:

1. U.S. Citizenship: The petitioner (the U.S. citizen) must be a U.S. citizen. Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) are not eligible to petition for a K1 visa.
2. Intent to Marry: Both the petitioner and the beneficiary (the foreign fiancé(e)) must have a genuine intent to marry within 90 days of the beneficiary’s entry into the United States.
3. Meeting in Person: The couple must have met in person within the two years prior to filing the petition. Exceptions may be granted on religious or cultural grounds or if meeting in person would cause extreme hardship.
4. Proof of Relationship: Evidence of a bona fide relationship between the petitioner and beneficiary must be submitted. This can include photographs together, travel itineraries, joint bank account statements, communication records, and any other documentation that shows the authenticity of the relationship.
5. Financial Requirements: The petitioner must demonstrate the ability to financially support the beneficiary and prevent them from becoming a public charge in the United States. This is typically done by providing evidence of income, such as tax returns, pay stubs, and employment verification letters.
6. Divorce or Death Certificates: If either the petitioner or beneficiary was previously married, divorce or death certificates must be provided to establish the legal termination of any previous marriages.
7. Medical Examination: The beneficiary must undergo a medical examination by an authorized physician to ensure they do not have any health conditions that would make them inadmissible to the United States.
8. Police Clearance: The beneficiary must obtain a police clearance certificate from the Royal Thai Police or the appropriate authority in any country where they have lived for more than six months since the age of 16.
9. Form I-129F: The petitioner must file Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), with the USCIS. This form serves as the official request to bring the foreign fiancé(e) to the United States.
10. Visa Interview: Once the petition is approved by USCIS, the beneficiary will be notified and required to attend a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Thailand. During the interview, the beneficiary will need to provide supporting documents, undergo a background check, and answer questions about their relationship and plans in the United States.

It is important to note that the K1 visa process can be complex, and it is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or seek professional guidance to ensure all requirements are met and the application is properly prepared. Additionally, the specific requirements and procedures may be subject to change, so it is essential to consult the USCIS website or contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Thailand for the most up-to-date information.