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Maniatis Law

Protecting your Family, Freedom, and Future

Nashville Fiancé K-1 Visa Attorney

Last updated on January 20, 2026

Bringing a foreign fiancé(e) to the United States is an exciting but complex process. Given the intricate paperwork, strict eligibility criteria and potential delays, working with an immigration attorney is essential.

Maniatis Law PLLC provides skilled legal representation for individuals seeking a fiancé K-1 visa in Nashville, Tennessee. With extensive knowledge of immigration law, attorney Matt Maniatis’ exceptional customer service means clients can always have a knowledgeable lawyer guiding them through the fiancé visa application process.

What Is A Fiancé(e) Visa?

A K-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the country to get married.

The couple must marry within 90 days of the foreign partner’s arrival. Afterward, the foreign spouse can apply for a green card to become a lawful permanent resident.

What Are The Eligibility Requirements For A K-1 Fiancé Visa?

To qualify for a K-1 visa, both partners must meet specific criteria, including:

  • The petitioner must be a U.S. citizen.
  • Both parties must be legally free to marry.
  • The couple must have met in person within the last two years (with limited exceptions).
  • The relationship must be genuine, with the intent to marry within 90 days of arrival.
  • The U.S. citizen must meet financial requirements to support their fiancé(e).

Attorney Matt Maniatis helps clients with the application process.

Process And Timeline For A Fiancé Visa

The K-1 visa process involves multiple steps, including:

  • Filing the petition: The U.S. citizen submits Form I-129F to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
  • USCIS approval: Once approved, the petition is sent to the National Visa Center.
  • Consular processing: The foreign fiancé(e) undergoes a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
  • Visa issuance and entry: If approved, the fiancé(e) enters the U.S. and must marry within 90 days.
  • Adjustment of status: After marriage, the foreign spouse can apply for a green card.

Each stage requires detailed documentation, and any errors can lead to delays or denials.

Can The K-1 Visa In-Person Meeting Requirement Be Waived?

Yes. It is expected that a U.S. citizen and their foreign fiancé meet in person at least once within the two years immediately before their petition for a K-1 visa is filed. In certain circumstances, this in-person meeting may be waived. However, it must be demonstrated that having the couple meet in person would violate strict cultural or social customs or place extreme hardship on the U.S. citizen.

Receiving a waiver for the K-1 in-person meeting is rare, and financial stressors alone will not qualify. It is important to have experienced legal representation when seeking a waiver.

Can Same-Sex Couples Apply For A K-1 Fiancé Visa?

Yes, so long as all other immigration requirements are fulfilled. U.S. immigration law does not distinguish between same-sex and opposite-sex couples.

That being said, same-sex couples often experience significant challenges when the foreign partner resides in a country that does not recognize (or criminalizes) same-sex relationships. That can make the process more difficult, especially when it comes to securing documents, providing proof of a genuine relationship and attending interviews at their home consulate.

Because of the potential danger to foreign partners living in countries that are hostile to LGBTQ people, the USCIS may permit third-country processing at an alternative consulate in a country that is neutral or supportive. Because each situation is addressed on a case-by-case basis, it is essential to have an experienced immigration attorney’s guidance.

Can K-1 Visa Holders Apply For A Work Permit Or Green Card After Arriving In The U.S.?

K-1 visa holders may apply for a work permit after they arrive in the United States via Form 1-765. However, the usefulness of that initial permit can be limited, since it is only valid until the K-1 status expires.

Since a K-1 visa holder must enter a bona fide marriage within a 90-day window, it is often more practical for the foreign spouse to apply for a work permit after marriage, when they submit their application for a green card. There is no waiting period to file Form 1-485 for the Adjustment of Status, so it may be filed immediately after marriage.

Call Today

Maniatis Law PLLC helps couples in Nashville, Tennessee, successfully obtain K-1 visas. Call 615-988-1441 today or contact the firm online to book a consultation. Se habla Español.