K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa Changes in 2025: New Fees, New Rules, and How to Prepare

Planning to bring your fiancé(e) to the United States? The K-1 visa (often called the fiancé(e) visa) allows U.S. citizens to petition for their foreign-national fiancé(e)s so they can marry in the United States and apply for permanent residency. In late 2025, significant changes to the filing fee, application requirements, and processing timeline are taking effect. Understanding these updates—and acting quickly—can help you avoid delays and unexpected costs.

What Is a K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa?

A K-1 visa lets a foreign fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen travel to the U.S. for the purpose of marriage. Once granted, the visa is valid for 90 days; the couple must marry within that timeframe, after which the foreign spouse can file for adjustment of status (a “green card”). K-1 visas are single-entry and do not permit international travel after arrival. If the beneficiary leaves the U.S. before marriage or adjustment, the visa becomes void and they cannot re-enter on the same K-1.

To qualify, the couple must show that:

• Both are legally free to marry;
• They intend to marry within 90 days of the beneficiary’s arrival;
• They have met in person at least once in the previous two years (with limited exceptions);
• The relationship is genuine, supported by photos, communications, and statements; and
• The U.S. citizen fiancé(e) meets minimum income standards—generally 125 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for the household size.

Fee Increase Effective December 1, 2025

Under the DHS Final Rule published in the Federal Register (Apr 2024), USCIS is raising the fee for Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)) from $535 to $675—the first major increase since 2016. USCIS also requires a $30 biometrics fee for the U.S. citizen petitioner. Together, the total government filing cost is $705.

Couples filing on or after December 1, 2025, should plan for this higher cost; filing before that date can save time and money.

Stricter Documentation and Relationship Evidence

USCIS has begun applying heightened scrutiny to prove that a relationship is bona fide.
Petitioners must provide more detailed documentation, including:

• Proof of in-person meetings (passport stamps, travel itineraries);
• Photos together over time;
• Communication logs (emails, texts, social media);
• Evidence of joint planning or shared expenses; and
• Statements from friends or family confirming the relationship.

These requirements stem from USCIS’s fraud-prevention guidance emphasizing full, consistent evidence across all filings. Consular officers also closely review marriage plans and prior immigration history. Incomplete or inconsistent documentation may trigger Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or denials.

Timelines and Processing Backlogs

Average K-1 processing times in 2025 range from 6 to 10 months, combining USCIS and consular stages. According to USCIS data, the median adjudication time for I-129F petitions is roughly 5.7 months, with consular processing adding several months. Backlogs vary by embassy; high-volume posts often require additional wait time.

To avoid delays:

• File early—USCIS processes cases in order received;
• Respond promptly to any RFE; and
• Prepare original documents for the consular interview.

Financial Obligations and Affidavit of Support

The K-1 petition does not require a formal Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) until after marriage, but USCIS requires income evidence with the I-129F. This proves the U.S. citizen can support their fiancé(e) and prevent public assistance reliance.

After marriage, the U.S. spouse must submit Form I-864 with the green-card application.
If income is below 125 percent of the poverty line, a joint sponsor may be needed.
Gather tax returns, W-2s, and employment letters early to avoid delays.

USCIS and the Department of State also evaluate “public charge” factors under long-standing regulations. Preparing a robust financial packet—including Form I-134 for the K-1 stage and Form I-864 after marriage—reduces risk of denial.

K-1 vs. CR-1 (Spousal Immigrant Visa) — Which Is Better?

Couples often debate between a K-1 and a CR-1 visa. Each has trade-offs:

Which path fits best depends on timing, budget, and whether the couple can reside abroad during processing.

Practical Tips for a Successful K-1 Petition

1. File Before December 1, 2025, to avoid the higher I-129F fee.
2. Submit Thorough Evidence: Photos, travel proof, and communications over time.
3. Plan for Delays: Expect 8–10 months total processing.
4. Organize Finances: Confirm income meets 125% of poverty guidelines.
5. Stay Updated: Monitor USCIS and DOS policy announcements.
6. Consult a Professional: A lawyer can reduce errors and avoid RFEs.

90-Day Marriage Rule and Next Steps After Arrival

After entering the U.S. on a K-1 visa:

• You must marry within 90 days of entry—this deadline cannot be extended.
• The K-1 is single-entry; you cannot exit and re-enter on the same visa.
• After marriage, file Form I-485 for Adjustment of Status and Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) to obtain a green card.

Failing to marry within 90 days or leaving the U.S. before adjustment ends the K-1 status. New petitions would be required to return.

How Song Law Firm Can Assist You

Navigating the fiancé(e) visa process has become more complex with higher fees and greater documentation demands. Song Law Firm has helped countless couples successfully complete the K-1 process and green-card filing. Our team will:

• Assess your eligibility and recommend the best visa strategy;
• Prepare a comprehensive evidence package to reduce RFEs;
• Guide you through financial requirements and co-sponsor options; and
• Track your case and communicate with USCIS on delays.

If you need help preparing a K-1 petition or addressing a pending case, contact us today at 201-461-0031 or immigration@songlawfirm.com for a confidential consultation.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Each case is unique; consult a qualified immigration attorney about your specific situation.