Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)
I-129F · Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)
How a U.S. citizen petitions for a foreign fiancé(e) to enter on a K-1 visa, then marry within 90 days of entry.
Purpose and process
After I-129F approval the case moves to NVC and a K-1 consular interview. After entry, the couple marries and files I-485 to adjust status.
Who files it
U.S. citizens petitioning a foreign fiancé(e).
Official references
Common USCIS statuses for this form
Case Was Received
USCIS has received your filing and generated a receipt number. This is only the starting point — active review has not begun yet.
Case Was Approved
The case is approved.
Request For Additional Evidence Was Sent
USCIS issued a Request for Evidence — the officer needs additional evidence before making a decision.
Case Was Sent To The National Visa Center
USCIS forwarded the approved immigrant petition to the National Visa Center for consular processing.
Frequently asked questions
How long from I-129F to the K-1 interview?
I-129F currently takes about 12–18 months. NVC processing and consular scheduling add another 2–6 months. Total time is often 1.5–2 years or more.
How soon must we marry after entry?
Within 90 days of entry on K-1. Then file I-485 to adjust status.
Can I change the consulate after I-129F approval?
In theory yes, by requesting a transfer through NVC, but you need a real reason and it may extend the timeline.
Track your I-129F case
Enter your receipt number. MyCases polls USCIS on a schedule and alerts you the moment the status changes — by email, Telegram or WeChat Work. Free forever.
General information only, not legal advice. Official USCIS notices in writing always take precedence.