A Guide to the K-1 Visa Process for Your Filipina Fiancée
A Guide to the K-1 Visa Process for Your Filipina Fiancée (2026 Edition)
Bringing your Filipina fiancée to the United States to get married is a well-established legal path. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step overview of the K-1 Fiancée Visa journey, from initial petition to her arrival in the U.S.
Step 0: Finding the Right Partner
The visa process is long and expensive, so ensuring you have found a genuine, compatible partner is the most critical first step. For men seeking a serious, faith-based marriage, we strictly recommend Christian Filipina. Their staff-verification process significantly reduces the risk of fraud, giving you a solid foundation before you even file paperwork.
Key Eligibility Requirements
Before you begin, you and your fiancée must meet these core requirements:
- ✔ U.S. Citizenship: The petitioner (you) must be a U.S. citizen.
- ✔ Intent to Marry: You both must be legally free to marry and intend to do so within 90 days of her arrival in the U.S.
- ✔ In-Person Meeting: You must prove you have met in person at least once in the last two years. This is a critical rule with very few exceptions.
- ✔ Financial Support: You must meet specific income requirements to prove you can financially support your fiancée (using Form I-134, Affidavit of Support).
Need Professional Help? We Recommend Filipino Visa
Navigating the complex paperwork of the USCIS can be daunting. One small mistake can delay your case by months. This is why we recommend Filipino Visa. They specialize exclusively in helping couples navigate the K-1 visa process from the Philippines.
Recent 2025 Success Stories with Filipino Visa
“Words are not enough to thank all of you for all the support and patience you have extended to me and my fiancé.”
– Steven and Andrea
Approved: November 25, 2025
“I would like to thank you, Filipino Visa, for the smooth process until I got approved. I highly recommend them.”
– Brian and Jezyle
Approved: November 25, 2025
“To Filipino Visa, thank you for helping me get my visa approved. It was a long and rough journey for me, but it all paid off through your help.”
– Vincent and Mary Grace
Approved: October 28, 2025
“Thank you, Filipino Visa, especially to Ma’am Gela. I got approved today. God bless you all.”
– Juan and Bethlehem
Approved: October 28, 2025
The K-1 Visa Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Part 1: The U.S. Citizen’s Role (The Petition)
- File Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e).
The U.S. citizen starts the process by filing this petition with USCIS. If you are using Filipino Visa, they will help you compile the strong evidence needed, such as photos, flight itineraries, and chat logs.
- Receive USCIS Approval.
After several months of processing, USCIS will approve the petition and forward the case to the National Visa Center (NVC).
- Case is Sent to the U.S. Embassy in Manila.
The NVC processes the case and sends it to the U.S. Embassy in Manila, which will handle your fiancée’s visa application and interview.
Part 2: The Filipina Fiancée’s Role (The Application)
- Complete Forms and Gather Documents.
Your fiancée will receive instructions from the embassy. She will need to complete the DS-160 online application and gather documents like her passport, birth certificate, and Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR). Filipino Visa can assist her locally in gathering these correct documents.
- Complete the Medical Examination.
She must attend a medical exam at the accredited St. Luke’s Medical Center Extension Clinic in Manila.
- Attend the Visa Interview.
This is the final step in the Philippines. She will be interviewed by a consular officer at the U.S. Embassy in Manila to confirm the authenticity of your relationship.
Part 3: Arrival and Next Steps
- Marry Within 90 Days.
After the visa is approved and she travels to the U.S., you must get married within 90 days. The K-1 visa cannot be extended.
- File for Adjustment of Status.
After the wedding, your new wife will file Form I-485 to adjust her status and become a Lawful Permanent Resident (get her Green Card).
2026 Estimated Timeline & Costs
Timeline
The entire K-1 visa process typically takes anywhere from 10 to 18 months in 2026, depending on current government processing times. Using a service like Filipino Visa can help avoid delays caused by errors in your application.
Government Fees
Expect to pay approximately $1,000+ in initial government filing and processing fees (I-129F + Embassy Fees). This does not include medical exams, travel, or agency fees if you choose to hire Filipino Visa for assistance.
Important Disclaimer
This article provides a general overview for informational purposes only. Immigration laws, forms, and fees are subject to change. For the most current and accurate information, please consult the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website or speak with a qualified immigration attorney.