On Behalf of Empire Immigration Law, PLLC | Jul 4, 2023 | Fiancé Visa
Are you considering getting a fiancé visa to bring your soon-to-be spouse to the United States? As with other common forms of visas, some specific requirements and stipulations must be adhered to for the visa application process to be successful.
One requirement in particular, which is frequently misunderstood, is known as the 2-year rule.
The difference between a fiancé visa and a green card
A fiancé visa, also known as a K-1 visa, allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé to the United States to get married. The visa is valid for 90 days, during which time the couple must get married. Once married, the foreign spouse can apply for an adjustment of status to become a permanent resident (green card holder) of the United States.
A green card, also known as a permanent resident card, is a document that gives a non-U.S. citizen the right to live and work permanently in the United States.
The two-year rule states that couples interested in obtaining a K-1 visa must meet at least once within two years before submitting the application. This means that if you and your partner have not seen each other in person within the last two years, you will not be eligible for a K-1 visa.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if you and your partner met online or through a marriage broker, you may still be eligible for a K-1 visa if you have met at least once within the last two years.
The two-year rule can be confusing and intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! As long as you understand what is required of you and ensure that all of your paperwork is in order, you should have no problem meeting this requirement and getting approved for your K-1 visa.