A Complete Guide to Getting a U.S. Marriage Visa

A U.S. marriage visa allows a foreign spouse or fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen or green card holder to legally enter and reside in the United States. Depending on your relationship status and location, the U.S. offers several visa options:

• CR1 (Conditional Resident) Visa

• IR1 (Immediate Relative) Visa

• K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa

• K-3 Spouse Visa

Each has different eligibility requirements, timelines, and processes.

Quick Overview of Marriage-Based Visa Types

Who Can Sponsor a Spouse or Fiancé(e)?

U.S. Citizen Sponsor:

• Must be 18 years or older

• Must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder)

• Must reside in the U.S. or plan to return with the spouse

• Must meet the income requirement (125% of the federal poverty guideline)

• Must not have a criminal history involving abuse or immigration fraud

Eligibility for the Applicant (Foreign Spouse/Fiancé(e))

• Must be legally married or engaged to the sponsor

• Must pass a medical exam

• Must have no disqualifying criminal record

• Must not be inadmissible under U.S. immigration law

Documents Required for U.S. Marriage Visas

Here’s a list of commonly required documents (actual requirements may vary by case and embassy):

Step-by-Step Guide to CR1 / IR1 U.S. Marriage Visa

Step 1: File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)

• Filed by the U.S. citizen or green card holder

• Proves that a real, legal relationship exists

• Filing fee: $535

Expect a Receipt Notice (I-797C) in 2-3 weeks

Step 2: USCIS Approval & NVC Processing

• If approved, the petition moves to the National Visa Center (NVC)

• Pay fees: $445 total (IV application + Affidavit of Support)

• Submit Form DS-260 online and upload civil & financial documents

Step 3: Attend the Visa Interview at U.S. Embassy

• Spouse attends the interview in their home country

• Bring original documents and evidence of a genuine relationship

• Be honest and prepared for personal questions

Step 4: Receive Visa & Travel to the U.S.

• If approved, a CR1 or IR1 visa is stamped in the passport

• Spouse can enter the U.S. and receive a Green Card by mail

Special Case: K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa Process

This visa is for engaged couples, where the foreign fiancé(e) wants to enter the U.S. to get married.

Step-by-Step:

1. File Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)) – $535

2. Approval & NVC Transfer

3. DS-160 form submission

4. Medical exam & visa interview

5. Receive K-1 visa

6. Enter U.S. & marry within 90 days

7. File Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) – $1,225

Total Cost of U.S. Marriage Visas

Processing Times (2025 Estimates)

Common Interview Questions

During the visa interview, expect questions like:

• How did you meet?

• When and where did you get married?

• What languages do you speak together?

• What are your spouse’s hobbies?

• Have you met each other’s family?

Consistency and honesty are key. Practice before the interview!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

How to Prove a Genuine Relationship

For CR1, IR1, and K-1 visas, you must show your relationship is real:

• Chat logs, emails, video call records

• Travel history and joint trips

• Wedding or engagement photos

• Letters from friends/family

• Joint leases or bills (if applicable)

Bringing Children to the U.S.

• CR1/IR1: You can include stepchildren under 21 in your application.

• K-1: Children get K-2 visas and must enter the U.S. with the parent.

What Happens After You Arrive in the U.S.?

• CR1/IR1 holders: Receive green card in the mail (within 45–90 days).

• K-1 visa holders: Must marry within 90 days, then apply for Adjustment of Status (I-485).

Forms You Might Need (At a Glance)

 CR1 vs IR1 – What’s the Difference?

• CR1 = Married for less than 2 years

  • Conditional green card (2 years)

  • Must file I-751 to remove conditions

• IR1 = Married for 2+ years

  • Permanent green card (10 years)

Can I Apply From Outside the U.S.?

Yes. CR1/IR1 and K-1 applicants apply through the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country. Interview appointments are scheduled there.

Tips for Success

• Stay organized and save every document

• Use cover letters and checklists

• Review all forms carefully before submitting

• Consult an immigration attorney for complex cases

• Respond quickly to RFEs (Requests for Evidence)

Useful Resources

• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

• National Visa Center (NVC)

• Visa Bulletin (for backlogs)

• Affidavit of Support Guide

Conclusion

Love knows no borders—but immigration laws do. A U.S. marriage visa is the legal path for foreign spouses or fiancé(e)s to join their loved ones in America. With preparation, patience, and accurate documentation, your visa journey can lead to permanent residency and a new life together. Whether you’re planning your wedding or just got engaged, now is the time to start your U.S. immigration journey the right way.