What Documents Do You Need for a Fiancé Visa? A Complete Checklist

For couples planning to marry and build a life together in the United States, the K-1 fiancé visa can be the first step in the journey. This visa allows a foreign fiancé of a U.S. citizen to enter the country for the purpose of marriage. Once the marriage takes place, the foreign spouse can then apply for a green card.

Because this process depends heavily on documentation, being prepared with the correct paperwork is one of the most important parts of applying. Missing or incomplete documents can cause delays, requests for more evidence, or even denials. This guide covers what documents you need, how to organize them, and common mistakes to avoid.

Basic Eligibility for a Fiancé Visa

Before gathering documents, it is important to confirm that you meet the requirements for a K-1 visa. Both partners must show:

• The petitioner is a U.S. citizen (lawful permanent residents cannot file for a fiancé visa).
• You plan to marry within 90 days of the fiancé entering the United States.
• Both individuals are legally free to marry.
• You have met in person at least once within the past two years (with limited exceptions).

If you meet these requirements, you can move forward with the petition and begin preparing documents.

Documents for the U.S. Citizen Petitioner

The U.S. citizen fiancé must provide several forms of evidence to prove eligibility and support the petition. These include:

• Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate, U.S. passport, or naturalization certificate).
• Completed Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé).
• Proof of intent to marry within 90 days of arrival (letters, wedding venue deposits, or other plans).
• Evidence of having met in person within the last two years (travel itineraries, photos, or receipts).
• Proof of termination of any prior marriages (divorce decrees or death certificates).

Documents for the Foreign Fiancé

The foreign fiancé must also prepare documents for the visa application and interview. Commonly required items include:

• Valid passport.
• Birth certificate.
• Police certificates from all countries lived in since age 16.
• Divorce or death certificates from prior marriages, if applicable.
• Sealed medical exam report from an authorized physician.
• Two passport-style photos.

These documents help verify identity, background, and eligibility for the visa.

Joint Evidence of the Relationship

To prove that the relationship is genuine and not entered into solely for immigration purposes, the couple should provide supporting evidence such as:

• Photos together at different times and locations.
• Records of travel or visits.
• Copies of communication (emails, messages, phone records).
• Letters or affidavits from friends and family confirming the relationship.
• Engagement proof (such as ring receipts or engagement announcements).

Strong evidence of a real relationship is critical for approval.

 

Financial Support Documents

The U.S. citizen petitioner must also show that they can financially support the fiancé upon arrival. This is usually done through Form I-134, Affidavit of Support. Supporting documents may include:

• Recent tax returns or IRS transcripts.
• Pay stubs and employment verification letters.
• Bank statements.

If income is insufficient, a joint sponsor may sometimes provide additional financial support documents.

Tips for Organizing Your Documents

• Keep both originals and copies in clearly labeled folders.
• Translate any documents not in English.
• Review requirements for the U.S. embassy or consulate where the interview will take place, since local rules can differ.
• Double-check expiration dates on passports and police certificates before the interview.

Organizing your paperwork can prevent last-minute stress and help the interview go smoothly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete forms or forgetting signatures.
• Providing photos or documents that are too limited to prove the relationship.
• Failing to update evidence if there is a long wait between filing and the interview.
• Missing deadlines for medical exams or police certificates.

An experienced immigration attorney can guide you in preparing a thorough application package that avoids these common issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a permanent resident file for a fiancé visa?
No. Only U.S. citizens can file Form I-129F for a fiancé visa. Permanent residents must marry first and then petition for a green card through family-based immigration.

Do all documents need to be translated into English?
Yes. Any document not in English must be accompanied by a full certified translation.

How long does the fiancé visa process take?
On average, the K-1 visa process takes around 12–18 months, though timelines can vary depending on USCIS processing and embassy wait times.

Do we have to marry within 90 days of arrival?
Yes. The K-1 visa requires marriage within 90 days after the foreign fiancé enters the United States. If you do not marry within this time, the visa status will expire.

Get Help Preparing Your Fiancé Visa

The fiancé visa process is exciting, but also requires careful attention to detail. Collecting the right documents, proving your relationship, and preparing for the interview are all critical to success. Vanderwall Immigration has experience guiding couples through every stage of the process, from filing the petition to attending the final interview.

Schedule an appointment today to get professional help with your fiancé visa application.