Uncle Sam gives you two options for beginning life in the USA with your loved one – the K-1 Fiancé and
CR1 Spousal Visas. Both require a mountain of paperwork. It’s important to choose the right visa for
you before you get started.

You Just Got Engaged! The K-1 Fiancé Visa is an Option for You…

Filing for this visa means that you both intend to be married in America within the 90 day period after
your fiancé arrives. Once married, you will need to file the Adjustment of Status (a.k.a. ‘Green Card’)
application so your loved one can legally remain and eventually become a citizen.

The wait time from filing to visa is about 4 to 7+ months. Government and Medical Fees total
approximately $1000 for the visa + another $1,000 for the ‘Green Card.’

To file a fiancé(e) visa, you must meet the following requirements:
1. You must be a US Citizen.
2. You must have recently met your fiancé in person.
3. You are free to marry.
4. You can financially support your fiancé(e).
5. You haven’t committed particular crimes.

You Just Got Married! The CR-1 Spousal Visa is Your Visa Type…

Filing for this visa means that you and your spouse both intend to live in America and leads to an
automatic ‘Green Card.’ This process takes a little longer and costs a bit more upfront, but in the long
run it can save you money and hassle because you do not need to file the Adjustment of Status.

The wait time from filing to visa can take 6 to 12+ months. Government fees total about $1,200 from
start-to-finish.

To file for a spousal visa, you must meet the following requirements:
1. You must be a US Citizen.
2. You must be married.
3. You must have a bona-fide relationship.
4. You can support your future husband or wife in the USA.
5. You haven’t committed particular crimes.