My UK resident clients come to me with almost identical questions: What is the fastest way for me to get a Green Card for the US? Is the K-1 fiance visa the fastest way for me to get to my spouse in the US or should we get married and apply for the IR1 spousal visa?

The K-1 visa is specifically designed for foreign nationals who are engaged to U.S. citizens. Once the visa is granted, the fiancé has 90 days to marry their U.S. citizen partner. Failure to marry within this timeframe could result in the fiancé being required to leave the country within 30 days, facing possible removal proceedings.

While the marriage green card process offers many advantages, there are situations where a fiancé visa might be the better option. For example, if you and your partner are not yet married and would prefer to have your wedding in the U.S., a K-1 fiancé visa might be the right choice.

As a U.S. citizen, you can sponsor your fiancé(e) from abroad to join you in the U.S., provided you meet certain conditions like having met in person within the last two years and committing to marry within 90 days of your partner's arrival in the U.S. This process may sound straightforward, but it demands meticulous planning and understanding of legal nuances to ensure a smooth application.