For a U.S. citizen wanting to bring their foreign fiancé(e) or spouse to the United States, there are two main visa options: the K-1 fiancé(e) visa and the spousal visa (also known as the CR-1/IR-1 visa). The K-1 visa is for those who plan to marry in the U.S. within 90 days of the foreign fiancé(e)'s entry, while the spousal visa is for those who are already married and want their spouse to immigrate to the U.S.
K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa:
Purpose:
Allows a foreign fiancé(e) to enter the U.S. to marry a U.S. citizen.
Process:
U.S. citizen files Form I-129F with USCIS.
USCIS forwards approved petition to the National Visa Center (NVC), then to the U.S. Embassy or consulate.
Foreign fiancé(e) applies for the K-1 visa at the U.S. Embassy or consulate.
After entry, the couple must marry within 90 days.
The foreign spouse then applies for Adjustment of Status to obtain a green card.
Pros:
Generally faster processing time than spousal visa for those who want to marry in the U.S.
Cons:
More expensive in the long run due to additional fees for the green card application, and the foreign spouse cannot work immediately upon arrival.
Spousal Visa (CR-1/IR-1):
Purpose: Allows a foreign spouse of a U.S. citizen to immigrate to the U.S.
Process:
U.S. citizen files Form I-130 with USCIS.
USCIS forwards approved petition to the NVC, then to the U.S. Embassy or consulate.
Foreign spouse applies for the immigrant visa at the U.S. Embassy or consulate.
Upon entry to the U.S., the foreign spouse receives a green card.
Pros: Foreign spouse can work and travel immediately upon arrival in the U.S.
Cons: Generally takes longer to process than the K-1 visa.