Applying for a K-1 visa—the pathway that allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the United States—is an exciting step toward building your future together. However, understanding the K-1 visa cost and related expenses is crucial to avoid financial surprises during the process.
According to the latest USCIS data, the total K-1 visa cost is approximately $940, divided between two main government fees:
- $675 for the K-1 Visa Petition (Form I-129F)
- $265 for the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160)
The average K-1 visa processing time is around 5.7 months. To qualify as a sponsor, the U.S. citizen petitioner must typically earn at least 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, which equals $21,150 annually for a two-person household in the 48 contiguous states.
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys help clients prepare financially and strategically for every step of the K-1 visa process. With expert guidance, you can navigate the costs and requirements confidently—making your reunion with your loved one smoother and stress-free.
Understanding the K-1 Visa Cost Breakdown
The total government filing fees for the K-1 visa amount to $940, but several other mandatory and optional expenses should be considered:
1. K-1 Visa Petition Fee – $675
This fee is paid when submitting Form I-129F to USCIS by mail. Payment options include:
- Money order
- Personal or cashier’s check (payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security)
- Credit or debit card via Form G-1450 (Authorization for Credit Card Transactions)
2. DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application – $265
This fee is paid to the U.S. Department of State during the consular processing stage
3. Medical Examination – Typically $100–$500
A medical exam by an authorized physician is mandatory for all K-1 visa applicants. The cost depends on your country, the doctor’s rates, and any required vaccinations or tests.
Important: All filing fees are non-refundable, even if the government denies or withdraws your application.
Additional K-1 Visa Expenses to Expect
In addition to the standard government filing fees, you should budget for other common costs associated with the K-1 visa process:
- Translation Fees: Any document not in English must be translated by a certified translator. Prices generally range from $20 to $130 per page, depending on complexity.
- Document Preparation: Copying, printing, scanning, and passport photos all come with minor expenses that add up.
- Travel Costs: You may need to travel to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for interviews and medical exams, along with other trips for document preparation.
- Adjustment of Status (Form I-485): After your fiancé(e) arrives in the U.S. and you marry, the next step is applying for permanent residency. This costs $1,440.
- Attorney Fees: While optional, professional guidance from an immigration attorney at Green Card Link can save you time, reduce errors, and significantly improve your case outcome.
Understanding the K-1 Visa Income Requirement
To qualify for a K-1 fiancé(e) visa, the U.S. citizen petitioner must meet certain financial criteria. In most cases, the sponsor must earn at least 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, which currently equals $21,150 per year for a household of two in the 48 contiguous states. These income thresholds are updated every year and may vary depending on location — with higher limits applying in states like Alaska and Hawaii.
If you do not meet the income requirement, you still have options. A joint sponsor, such as a family member or close friend who resides in the United States and meets the financial qualifications, may step in to help support your application. An immigration attorney at Green Card Link can assess your specific situation and advise you on how to satisfy the financial requirements without jeopardizing your visa approval.
How Much Does a K-1 Visa Lawyer Cost?
Legal fees for a K-1 fiancé(e) visa typically range from $1,000 to $4,000, depending on the complexity of your case and the level of legal assistance required. Because this visa involves several steps and detailed documentation, working with an experienced immigration attorney at Green Card Link ensures that your application is prepared accurately and efficiently.
Beyond attorney fees, applicants should also be prepared for government filing fees, medical exams, translations, and other supporting costs. Since these expenses can add up quickly, consulting with an immigration expert helps you understand the full financial picture and plan ahead. With the guidance of immigration attorneys at Green Card Link, you can avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary delays in your K-1 visa process.
Is It Hard to Get a Fiancé(e) Visa?
The K-1 visa is a valuable pathway for engaged couples, but obtaining approval can be challenging due to the strict requirements set by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Applicants must prove a bona fide relationship and demonstrate their intent to marry within 90 days of entering the United States. Any inconsistencies, missing evidence, or unsatisfactory interview answers can lead to a denial.
Because of the high scrutiny these cases face, meticulous preparation is essential. An experienced immigration attorney at Green Card Link can help you compile strong evidence, prepare for the consular interview, and ensure that your petition meets all USCIS standards. With their expertise, you can minimize risks, handle documentation properly, and increase your chances of approval.
How Long Does the K-1 Visa Process Take?
The average K-1 visa processing time is approximately 5.7 months, according to the latest USCIS data. However, actual timelines vary based on USCIS workload, consular appointment availability, and individual circumstances.
Step-by-Step K-1 Visa Timeline
- File Form I-129F: The U.S. citizen petitioner submits Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), to USCIS. This stage typically takes around 5.7 months for processing.
- USCIS Review: USCIS verifies the completeness of the application and confirms that it includes valid proof of a real relationship.
- National Visa Center (NVC) Processing: Once approved, the petition moves to the National Visa Center for additional checks and document processing. This step takes about 4–6 weeks.
- Embassy or Consulate Interview: The case is then sent to the U.S. embassy or consulate in the foreign fiancé(e)’s home country for medical exams and interviews. Processing times vary by country — some may face months-long appointment backlogs, while others complete interviews within weeks.
- Visa Decision: After the interview, the consular officer will approve or deny the K-1 visa based on the application’s evidence and responses.
Because timelines fluctuate widely, working with immigration attorneys at Green Card Link helps ensure your case moves smoothly through every stage without unnecessary delays.
How Green Card Link Can Help
If you’re unsure about navigating the K-1 visa process, you don’t have to do it alone. The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link provide personalized legal guidance to help you avoid costly errors, prevent delays, and strengthen your application. Their years of experience in U.S. immigration law enable them to anticipate challenges and resolve issues before they become obstacles.
Even small mistakes in your filing can lead to rejection or lengthy delays — that’s why having professional support matters. By choosing Green Card Link, you gain a trusted legal partner dedicated to reuniting you with your loved one and making your immigration journey as smooth as possible.