When applying for a fiance visa, the last thing you want is to make mistakes that slow down the process and delay plans for a trip down the aisle with your significant other.
A K-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa permitting a fiance from outside the country to come to the U.S. to exchange wedding vows with a U.S. citizen. Anyone who gets a K-1 visa must marry their U.S. citizen sponsor within 90 days of arriving in the U.S.
According to World Bride Magazine, the denial rate for K-1 visas ranges from approximately 10% to 15%. So, while most are approved, a considerable amount are denied.
If you’re applying for a fiance visa and want to avoid needless delays or rejections, consider these six mistakes you must avoid at all costs.
1. Incomplete or Inaccurate Forms
One mistake you can’t afford to make is failing to fill out forms accurately and completely.
There’s no reason to make this mistake unless you’re not paying attention. Considering what’s at stake, you’ll want to take your time and ensure the forms are properly completed.
Errors or omissions can lead to unnecessary delays or rejections, which will throw a wrench in your plans to marry your fiance and build a life together.
Retaining the services of a lawyer specializing in this area of the law is in your best interests since they’ll ensure the right forms are filled out correctly. Your odds of a successful K-1 visa application will increase if you have professional help.
2. Missed Deadlines
Another error to steer clear of is missing deadlines. When filing for a fiance visa, you should be on your A-game. If you dilly-dally and miss essential interview and submission deadlines, you could face delays or rejections you’d otherwise avoid.
3. Lack of Supporting Evidence
You must provide sufficient evidence of a real relationship. That can include travel records, pictures, and other communications. Failing to provide enough evidence of a bona fide relationship can result in the rejection of a fiance visa.
4. Submitting Fraudulent Documents
It goes without saying that you shouldn’t submit fraudulent documents as part of the process to obtain a fiance visa. Few things can jeopardize your goal to get a fiance visa like providing documents that are misleading. Ensure you have your ducks in a row and avoid serious problems.
5. Proceeding Without Legal Assistance
Don’t underestimate the complexity of successfully obtaining a fiance visa. The process can be complex depending on the dynamics of the person requiring the visa and the country they live in.
Trying to apply without legal assistance can complicate the process more than it already is and lead to delays or rejections.
Your best bet is to retain the services of a law firm specializing in citizenship and immigration services to navigate the process confidently. The lawyer will look at the specifics pertaining to your application, answer questions, give advice, and help you secure the K-1 visa you need.
Remember that mistakes can delay or derail the process. Hiring a lawyer can prevent unnecessary issues and lower your stress level.
6. Overlooking Financial Requirements
Yet another mistake to avoid is overlooking financial requirements. As a U.S. citizen petitioner, you must meet specific income requirements to sponsor your fiance. So, it’s in your and your fiance’s best interests to ensure you have the financial wherewithal to qualify.
You must submit proof to back up income requirements, or your K-1 visa request could be rejected.
If you want to secure a fiance visa without complications, avoid these six mistakes. Hiring a good lawyer will help you properly navigate the application process and successfully secure a fiance visa.
