With over eight billion people in the world, it may not come as a shock to you that the love of your life is from a different country. However, while love is one of the most important things in your life, it takes second place to national security in the eyes of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. As such, if you are in the process of applying for a K-1 Fiancé(e) visa, it’s imperative to understand what this process entails and the steps you can take to prepare yourself. One of the most nerve-wracking aspects of this process is the interview, so the following blog explores what you can do to make this as simple as possible. The following blog also explores the importance of working with Fairfax County fiancée visa lawyers to help you through these matters.
What Is a K-1 Visa and Who Is Eligible?
A K-1 visa is an option for couples looking to get married in the United States. In general, this visa allows a non-United States Citizen entry into the country so they may get married. However, it’s critical to understand that a visa holder will only have 90 days from the date of entry to get legally married; otherwise, they must exit the country and begin the process again.
It’s imperative to understand that simply saying you are going to marry a United States citizen is not enough to make you eligible for this visa. Your citizen partner must first file Form I-129F, Petition for Fiancé(e). If approved, the visa application will continue. This requires an interview with the visa applicant, in which the relationship will be examined to ensure it is real. The interview is necessary, as many individuals seek “green card” marriages, in which they marry in the hopes of getting a green card before ultimately divorcing.
What Can I Do to Prepare for the Interview?
Generally, one of the most important things you can do to prepare for your K-1 visa interview is to review the documentation submitted by your spouse. This can ensure you don’t provide conflicting information, which can occur. Next, you should review common questions asked during this process. Typically, you’ll find that the first series of questions will revolve around your personal life, such as your nationality, if you’ve ever been arrested, and whether or not you’ve been to the United States.
Next, the interviewer will ask you questions about your spouse to establish how well you know your fiancé. Finally, they will ask questions about your relationship history and plans for the future. This can ensure that the relationship is authentic and you have plans to go through with the marriage after the wedding occurs.
While this process can be nerve-wracking, it’s important to remain relaxed and calm during this process. As such, you may want to connect with an experienced attorney with Goel & Anderson to help you explore your rights during these matters as well as prepare for your interview. When you need assistance, our firm is ready to help. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you.
