K-1 Fiance Visa Interview Prep Checklist: What to Expect and Bring

This post focuses on the K-1 fiance(e) visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. It explains where the interview fits in the process, which documents to bring, and how to reduce avoidable delays.

Where the interview fits in the K-1 process

The K-1 process has two main stages:

1. USCIS petition stage: The U.S. citizen files Form I-129F. If approved, USCIS sends the case to the National Visa Center (NVC).
2. Consular stage: The Department of State schedules the interview after the applicant submits Form DS-160 and completes the medical exam. If approved, the embassy issues the visa for entry to the United States.

After entry, the couple must marry within 90 days, and then file for adjustment of status with USCIS.

Eligibility requirements for a K-1 visa

To qualify for a K-1 visa, the couple must meet these requirements:

• The petitioner is a U.S. citizen.
• Both parties are legally free to marry.
• The couple met in person within the last two years (unless a waiver is granted).
• The couple intends to marry within 90 days of entry.
• The relationship is genuine, not solely for immigration benefits.

Which agency does what

Keeping the agency roles straight helps avoid confusion:

• USCIS reviews and approves Form I-129F.
• Department of State handles the DS-160, interview, and visa issuance.
• CBP admits the applicant at the port of entry.

K-1 interview document checklist

Embassies differ slightly, but most require the following:

• Valid passport.
• Interview appointment letter.
• DS-160 confirmation page.
• Medical exam results (often in a sealed envelope).
• Birth certificate and any required translations.
• Police certificates from required countries.
• Evidence of a bona fide relationship (photos, travel records, messages).
• Form I-134 Affidavit of Support from the U.S. citizen, plus financial evidence (tax returns, W-2s, pay stubs, employment letter).
• Proof of the petitioner's U.S. citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate).
• Divorce decrees or death certificates for any prior marriages.
• Two passport-style photos if required by the post.

Check the embassy's specific instructions before the interview.

What questions to expect

Consular officers usually focus on relationship history and intent to marry. Examples include:

• How and when did you meet?
• How many times have you seen each other in person?
• When and where do you plan to marry?
• What does your fiance(e) do for work?
• Have either of you been married before?
• What are your plans after marriage?

Answer clearly and consistently. If you do not know an answer, say so rather than guess.

Common causes of delay

Delays often come from simple issues:

• Missing or outdated documents.
• Inconsistencies between the petition and interview answers.
• Unclear proof of the in-person meeting requirement.
• Medical exam problems or missing vaccinations.
• Administrative processing or security checks.

Avoid booking nonrefundable travel until the visa is issued.

After approval

If the visa is approved, the embassy will return the passport with the visa stamp. Review the validity dates carefully and plan entry before the visa expires. The marriage must occur within 90 days of entry.

When to get legal help

Consider legal guidance if you have:

• Prior visa denials or immigration violations.
• Complicated relationship history or limited in-person meetings.
• Concerns about documentation or interview preparation.

Immigration law is fact specific. A short consultation can help you confirm your strategy and avoid delays.

Schedule a consultation

---

This post provides general information and is not legal advice. Laws can change and your facts matter. To get advice for your situation, schedule a consultation with an attorney.

Schedule a consultation