What is the I-129F Form?

Applying for a Fiancé Visa: I-129 F Form

The I-129F, also known as the Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), is a form used by U.S. citizens to bring their fiancé(e) to the United States for marriage. This form is the first step in obtaining a K-1 visa, also known as a fiancé visa.

This article will discuss everything you need to know about the I-129F form, including how to apply, who needs to apply, how long it takes, and how much it costs.

• Who Needs to Apply for the I-129F Form?
• How to Apply for the I-129F Form?
• How Long Does It Take to Process the I-129F Form?
• How Much Does It Cost to Apply for the I-129F Form?

Who Needs to Apply for the I-129F Form?

The I-129F form is for U.S. citizens engaged to foreign nationals and want to bring them to the United States for marriage. The petitioner (the U.S. citizen) and the beneficiary (the foreign national) must meet the eligibility criteria to file for the K-1 visa.

Eligibility criteria for the petitioner:

• Must be a U.S. citizen
• Must have met the beneficiary in person within the last two years
• Must be legally able to marry the beneficiary

Eligibility criteria for the beneficiary:

• Must be engaged to a U.S. citizen
• Must be planning to marry the U.S. citizen within 90 days of entering the United States
• Must be admissible to the United States (i.e., not have an outstanding criminal record, not be a security risk, etc.)

How to Apply for the I-129F Form?

The I-129F form can be filed by mail with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The following steps outline the application process:

• Step 1: Fill out the I-129F form: The petitioner must fill out the I-129F form, providing detailed information about themselves and their fiancé(e). The form requires information about the petitioner’s and beneficiary’s personal details, employment history, and criminal record, if any.
• Step 2: Gather supporting documents: The petitioner must gather supporting documents, such as evidence of their U.S. citizenship, evidence of their relationship with the beneficiary, and evidence that they have met in person within the last two years.
• Step 3: Pay the filing fee: The filing fee for the I-129F form is $535. The petitioner must pay the fee online using a credit or debit card, or by mailing a check or money order along with the form.
• Step 4: Mail the application: The petitioner must mail the completed I-129F form, supporting documents, and filing fee to the USCIS lockbox. The USCIS will notify the petitioner when they receive the application.

How Long Does It Take to Process the I-129F Form?

Processing times for the I-129F form can vary depending on the workload of the USCIS and the embassy or consulate where the beneficiary will apply for the K-1 visa. For the latest processing times, click here.

Once the I-129F form is approved, the case is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) for processing. The NVC will then forward the case to the embassy or consulate, where the beneficiary will apply for the K-1 visa.

How Much Does It Cost to Apply for the I-129F Form?

The filing fee for the I-129F form is $535. Additional costs may be associated with the K-1 visa process, such as medical examinations, visa application fees, and travel expenses. These costs will vary depending on the embassy or consulate where the beneficiary will apply for the visa.

Applying for a fiancé visa can be complex and time-consuming, but the I-129F form is the first step in bringing your fiancé(e) to the United States for marriage. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your application is filed correctly and increase your chances of a successful outcome.

Remember to gather all necessary supporting documents, pay the filing fee, and stay up to date on the processing times for the I-129F form. With patience and perseverance, you and your fiancé(e) can begin your journey to a life together in the United States.