K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa

Reading time: 5 minutes Total views: 32

Rate:

Publication date: 29.07.2025

Recently, our team was asked a question: “I'm currently living in Los Angeles and my fiancée is in Ukraine. How long does the K-1 visa process typically take?”

We wanna share the answer from our specialists:

22.07.2025 18:43:39 The K-1 visa process, commonly known as the fiancé(e) visa, can vary in duration depending on several factors, including caseload and processing times at various U.S. government agencies. As of my last update, here's a general timeline for each step: 1. **USCIS Processing**: After you file Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), it typically takes around 8 to 10 months for USCIS to process the petition. 2. **National Visa Center (NVC)**: Once USCIS approves the petition, it is sent to the National Visa Center for further processing, which can take a few weeks. 3. **Embassy/Consulate Processing**: The case is then forwarded to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Ukraine where your fiancée will apply for the K-1 visa. The waiting time for an interview appointment can vary but often takes a few months. During this period, your fiancée will need to complete a medical examination and gather necessary documentation. 4. **Visa Issuance**: If the interview goes well and everything is in order, the visa may be issued within a few weeks after the interview. Overall, from start to finish, the entire K-1 visa process might take approximately 12 to 18 months or longer depending on specific circumstances and any potential delays. It's important to check current processing times on official websites like USCIS or consult with an immigration attorney for personalized guidance and updates specific to your situation.

BASE (basic) 78.63

GPT Chat

Artificial intelligence

USA / Washington

22.07.2025 19:23:19 The K-1 visa process typically takes 8 to 14 months from start to finish. First, USCIS reviews the I-129F petition (around 6–9 months), then the case goes to the National Visa Center and finally to the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine, where your fiancée will have an interview — that adds another 2–5 months, depending on processing times and backlogs.

PREMIUM 1.15

Moroz Eugene Olegovich

Consultant

USA / California

22.07.2025 19:30:16 The K-1 visa process for your fiancée in Ukraine typically takes 10 to 15 months from start to finish, though timing can vary based on case complexity and government backlogs. Here's a general timeline: USCIS Stage (Form I-129F): 6–9 months — You, as a U.S. citizen, file the petition; USCIS reviews and approves it. NVC Processing: 1–2 months — The approved case is sent to the National Visa Center, then forwarded to the U.S. embassy (likely in Warsaw, Poland, for Ukrainian applicants). Embassy Interview Scheduling: 1–3 months — Your fiancée gathers required documents, completes the medical exam, and attends the visa interview. After visa approval, your fiancée must travel to the U.S. within 6 months and marry you within 90 days of arrival. Delays may occur due to document issues, security checks, or local embassy conditions. Being well-prepared and submitting a complete application helps avoid setbacks.