I-129f Checklist: Documents Are Needed For K-1 Alien Fiancé Visa

Immigration Guides | Updated 2025

If you’re a U.S. citizen planning to bring your foreign fiancé(e) to the United States on a K-1 visa, the first step is filing Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e). This form starts the process and is filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). To be approved, you must show proof that your relationship is real and that both partners intend to marry within 90 days of your fiancé(e)’s arrival.

We’ve created a detailed, updated checklist—plus added context, new tips, and helpful visuals—to make sure your I-129F petition is complete and well-prepared.

What USCIS Looks for in a K-1 Petition

When reviewing your Form I-129F, USCIS officers are checking for:

Proof that you’re a U.S. citizen
A genuine, good-faith relationship
Intent to marry within 90 days
Evidence of a meeting in the last 2 years
Legal freedom to marry (e.g., not currently married)
For the later stage of the process (embassy), You must meet the minimum income requirements set by USCIS (view current poverty guidelines)
Any required waivers or translations

Let’s break this down with a complete, easy-to-follow checklist.

Overview: What is the K-1 Visa?

Purpose: Allows a U.S. citizen to sponsor their foreign fiancé to come to the U.S.
Marriage Requirement: Must marry within 90 days of entry.
Next Step: After marriage, apply for a green card via adjustment of status (Form I-485).

Overview of the K-1 Visa Process

The K-1 visa application involves three main stages:

Before you file: Collect evidence to prove your relationship.
File Form I-129F: The U.S. citizen submits a petition to USCIS.
File Form DS-160 and prepare for the visa interview AFTER I-129F approval: The foreign fiancé(e) applies for the K-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

Below are expanded checklists and explanations for each stage.

Before You Start: Key Reminders

Use the most current version of Form I-129F and its instructions.
Carefully read the USCIS filing instructions and official K-1 visa eligibility requirements.
Do not submit original documents unless USCIS specifically asks for them.
Make photocopies of everything you send and keep records of delivery (e.g., certified mail or courier tracking).

Checklist #1 – Before You File: Proving a Genuine Relationship

Before filing Form I-129F, start gathering evidence of your relationship. This is essential for convincing U.S. immigration officials that your relationship is real and not just for immigration purposes.

Checklist #2 – I-129F Petition Supporting Documents

This step begins the formal petition process. The U.S. citizen must file Form I-129F with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

What to Include:

1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship (for the petitioner)

Provide one of the following:

U.S. birth certificate
Naturalization or citizenship certificate
Form FS-240 (Consular Report of Birth Abroad)
Unexpired U.S. passport
Signed statement from a U.S. consular officer verifying citizenship

Resource: How to prove U.S. citizenship – USCIS

2. Proof Both Are Legally Free to Marry

If either of you was previously married, you must prove that the marriage legally ended.

Submit:

Divorce decrees
Annulment orders
Death certificates of former spouses
Foreign-language documents must include certified English translations

3. Proof You’ve Met in Person (Past 2 Years)

USCIS wants proof that you and your fiancé(e) have met at least once in person within the last two years.

Examples of evidence:

Flight itineraries or boarding passes
Passport stamps or visas showing travel
Photos of you two together (with dates/locations labeled)
Hotel reservations or Airbnb receipts
Emails, chats, or texts
Affidavits from friends or family who witnessed your meeting
Hotel or restaurant receipts

Waivers: You may request a waiver if:

A meeting violates strict religious or cultural customs
It would cause you extreme hardship (e.g., severe health or travel risks)

If claiming a waiver, include:

Religious or cultural affidavits
Letters from religious authorities or community leaders
Doctor’s notes or hardship declarations

See In-Person Meeting Waiver Guidance.

4. Proof of Intent to Marry

You and your fiancé(e) must marry within 90 days of entering the U.S. Submit documents like:

Signed statements from both partners declaring your intent to marry
Wedding venue reservations or receipts
Proof of communication about wedding planning
Letters or statements from officiants, religious leaders, or vendors

Pro Tip: A short, signed statement from each partner with a proposed wedding date works well.

Intent to Marry Statement Template

5. Proof of Bona Fides of Romantic Relationship

While not required, adding strong relationship evidence can help reduce requests for more information (RFEs):

Photographs together over time, especially with family or at important events
Screenshots of ongoing conversations (e.g., WhatsApp, Messenger)
Joint travel itineraries or bookings
Letters from friends or family attesting to the relationship
Engagement ring receipts or proposal documentation

6. Passport-Style Photos

Include one color passport-style photo (2×2 inches) of each person:

Taken within 30 days
Clear, full-face, white background
Name and A-number (if known) written in pencil on the back

Use USCIS photo requirements

7. Additional Evidence

Legal name change documents (if applicable)
Copies of all Form I-94 records (arrival/departure forms)
If applicable: IMBRA waiver request (for prior K-1 sponsors or certain criminal records)

8. Completed Form

Form I-129F completed and signed

9. I-129F Filing Fee

Current fee: $675
Pay via check or money order to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security”
If filing at a Lockbox: use Form G-1450 for credit card payment
Check the USCIS Fee Calculator for updated costs

10.Certified Translations

Any document not in English must be translated. Include:

A copy of the original document
A certified English translation, signed by the translator confirming accuracy

11.Form G-28: Attorney Representation

If you’re working with an immigration lawyer, submit Form G-28 so USCIS can contact your representative directly.

Tip: If a required document isn’t available, provide a statement from the civil authority plus secondary evidence (school records, religious documents, affidavits).
See: USCIS Form I-129F Instructions, Page 10

Final Checklist Before Mailing

Did you organize your petition clearly (e.g., with a table of contents and tabbed sections)?
Did you include all required signatures?
Did you make a copy of the entire packet for your own records?
Did you write the correct mailing address for USCIS:
File Form I-129F at the USCIS Dallas lockbox.U.S. Postal Service (USPS):
USCIS
Attn: I-129F
P.O. Box 660151
Dallas, TX 75266-0151FedEx, UPS, and DHL deliveries:
USCIS
Attn: I-129F (Box 660151)
2501 South State Highway 121 Business
Suite 400
Lewisville, TX 75067-8003We cannot adjudicate this form at USCIS international offices.
Check to verify thecorrect adresssince they change from time to time.

Sample Packet Order (Suggested)

Cover Letter – briefly outlines contents
Form I-129F
Filing Fee (check or money order)
Proof of Citizenship
Statement of Intent to Marry – Petitioner
Statement of Intent to Marry – Beneficiary
Proof of In-Person Meeting
Photos of the Couple
Evidence of Relationship
Termination of Prior Marriages (if applicable)
Passport Photos
Translations (if applicable)
Form G-28 (if applicable)
G1450 for credit card payment
Although not required, these items strengthen your petition:

Cover letter summarizing your application and listing included documents
Table of contents to help USCIS review your packet efficiently

Binder clips or organized folders instead of staples

Sample Timeline of K-1 Visa Process

Step	Estimated Duration
Gather documents	1–2 months
I-129F processing (USCIS)	6–12 months
DS-160 & visa interview	1–2 months
Entry to the U.S.	Within 6 months of visa issuance
Marriage in U.S.	Within 90 days of arrival
Green card application (I-485)	Begins after marriage

Current Form I-129F Processing Times (2025 Estimates)

USCIS Service Center	Avg. Time (Months)
California	16 months
Nebraska	5 months
Potomac	19 months
Texas	12.5 months
Vermont	7.5 months

Check USCIS case status online:
https://egov.uscis.gov/casestatus

Common Mistakes That Delay Your Case

Forgetting to sign the form
Sending original documents instead of copies
Using outdated versions of the form
Not including intent-to-marry statements
Failing to document in-person meetings clearly

Special Considerations: Petitioner’s Criminal History or Repeat Filers

International Marriage Broker Regulation Act (IMBRA)

The IMBRA mandates background checks on U.S. citizen petitioners and requires that information about any criminal convictions be disclosed to the foreign-citizen fiancé(e). It also imposes limits on the number of K-1 petitions a U.S. citizen can file and regulates the activities of international marriage brokers.

Criminal History

If the U.S. petitioner has been convicted of certain crimes—including domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, or drug charges—USCIS may require:

Certified copies of court records, police reports, or probation documents
An explanation of the offense, sentencing, and rehabilitation efforts
USCIS may also notify the foreign fiancé(e) of the petitioner’s criminal history

Important: If you have any criminal history, speak to an immigration attorney before

What If You Have Filed an I-129F Before?

USCIS places limits on repeat I-129F filings:

More than two past filings or one approved petition in the last two years requires a waiver request
Include a written letter explaining unique circumstances (e.g., death of previous beneficiary)

Tip: If you have a criminal record or previous filings, consult with an immigration attorney before proceeding.

Checklist #3 – DS-160 and Visa Interview Documents

Once USCIS approves your I-129F, your case is transferred to the National Visa Center and then to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. The foreign fiancé must file Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application) and attend an interview.

U.S. Embassy/Consulate-Specific Requirements

Every embassy may have slightly different procedures or document requirements. Always:

Read the interview notice carefully
Visit your U.S. Embassy or Consulate’s website for country-specific guidelines

Documents for Affidavit of Support (Form I-134)

The U.S. citizen must show they can financially support the fiancé once they arrive in the U.S.

I-134 Supporting Documents Checklist

Document Type	Requirements
Bank Letter	Date account opened, past year’s deposits, current balance
Proof of Employment	Employer letter with salary, job title, length of employment
Federal Tax Return	Most recent 1040 form or transcript
Proof of Bonds (if applicable)	Serial numbers, bond denominations, ownership info

Important: You must meet 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your household size.
See current poverty guidelines here

Checklist #4: K-1 Visa Interview Documents

Once the DS-160 is complete and the U.S. embassy/consulate accepts the application, the fiancé must attend a visa interview.

K-1 Visa Interview Checklist

DS-160 confirmation page
Valid passport (6 months beyond arrival)
Birth certificate
Police certificates
Medical exam (sealed envelope)
Proof of relationship (photos, messages, correspondence)
Affidavit of Support (Form I-134)
Fee payment receipt
Divorce/death certificates of past spouses (certified)
Two 2×2 photos

Pro Tip: Bring both originals and photocopies to your interview. Keep everything organized in a labeled folder.

Locate your U.S. embassy or consulate

After Marriage: Apply for Green Card (Adjustment of Status)

Once married in the U.S., the Thai spouse can apply for permanent residency by filing:

Form I-485 – Application to Register Permanent Residence
Include supporting documents, identity photos, and fees
Expect biometrics appointment and possibly an interview

If approved, the Thai spouse receives a 2-year conditional green card (if the marriage is under 2 years old).

Tips for a Smooth K-1 Visa Process

Double-check every form for missing information or errors.
Translate all Thai-language documents into certified English.
Organize your petition clearly—consider using tabs or labeled sections.
Keep a digital and paper copy of everything.
Stay updated through USCIS processing times.

Deep Dive Into The Filling-Out of I-129F Application

Step 1. Tips

Make sure you’ve completed the form correctly before filing:

Did you fill out all required sections of the form?
Did you sign and date Part 8 – Petitioner’s Signature?
Did you use black ink or type your responses?
Did you include the correct filing fee of $535? (Check the latest fee on the USCIS fee schedule)

Pro Tip: Submitting an incomplete or unsigned form is a top reason for rejection. Double-check every page before mailing.

How to Fill Out Form I-129F (Step-by-Step)

General Tips:

Use black ink only
Sign in ink (typed signatures not accepted)
Use “N/A” or “None” where appropriate
Double-check dates and addresses

Key Sections:

Part 1: Petitioner Information

A-number: Most U.S. citizens won’t have one
USCIS Online Account: Only if you created one for past applications
Mailing & Physical Address History (5 years)
Employment History (5 years)

Part 2: Beneficiary Information

Full name, aliases, and address history (5 years)
Employment history (5 years)
Parental and marital history
Children and their addresses if not co-residing
U.S. address they plan to live at

Part 3: Criminal History of U.S. Citizen

List any protection orders or criminal records
Include certified court records
IMBRA disclosures are required by law

Part 4: Biographic Information

Ethnicity, race, height, weight, eye/hair color

Part 5–7: Signature, Interpreter, and Preparer Info

If someone helps complete the form, include their details

Part 8: Additional Info

Use this for overflow from any section

Where to Send Form I-129F

Mail your full packet (Form + fee + documents) to the USCIS lockbox listed on the Direct Filing Addresses page.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): K-1 Visa Document List

GENERAL QUESTIONS ABOUT THE K-1 VISA

What is the purpose of the K-1 visa?
The K-1 visa allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the United States so the couple can get married within 90 days of arrival.

How long does the K-1 visa process take from start to finish?
The average processing time is approximately 12–15 months, though it can vary depending on USCIS workload, embassy backlogs, or requests for additional evidence.

Can I file the I-129F if I haven’t met my fiancé(e) in person?
Generally no. U.S. immigration law requires that you and your fiancé(e) must have met in person at least once within the past two years, unless you qualify for an exemption due to cultural or religious customs or extreme hardship.

Can same-sex couples apply for a K-1 visa?
Yes. Same-sex couples are eligible for K-1 visas as long as all legal requirements are met.

I-129F PETITION FAQs

Who files Form I-129F?
Only the U.S. citizen partner files the I-129F petition with USCIS.

What are the most important supporting documents to include with Form I-129F?
Key documents include proof of U.S. citizenship, evidence of your relationship, photos of you and your fiancé(e), proof of meeting in person, prior divorce/death certificates (if applicable), passport photos, and a written intent to marry.

What kind of relationship evidence is strongest?
The best evidence is a combination of:

Photos together across time and locations
Travel itineraries and passport stamps
Screenshots of video calls and chats
Affidavits from friends or family who know your relationship

Is it okay if we don’t have many photos or receipts?
While it’s not mandatory to have a certain number of items, more documentation can strengthen your case. If you lack traditional evidence, consider written explanations, affidavits, or less common items like shared online accounts or postal records.

How many letters of intent to marry are required?
Both the U.S. citizen and the foreign fiancé(e) must each submit a signed and dated letter stating they intend to marry within 90 days of entry into the U.S.

Can we submit wedding plans or reservations with the I-129F?
Yes. These are helpful to prove your intent to marry. Include venue bookings, invitations, or vendor receipts if available.

Do I need a lawyer to file Form I-129F?
A lawyer is not required but can be helpful—especially if your case is complex or you anticipate issues like prior visa denials, criminal records, or unusual relationship circumstances.

What happens if USCIS sends a Request for Evidence (RFE)?
You must respond by the deadline listed, providing the requested documents. Failure to respond may result in denial.

DS-160 FORM FAQs

Who completes the DS-160 form?
The foreign fiancé(e) must complete the DS-160 form online once the I-129F petition is approved and the U.S. embassy schedules a visa interview.

When should the DS-160 be completed?
It must be completed before scheduling or attending the K-1 visa interview. You’ll need to bring the confirmation page to the interview.

Is the DS-160 form specific to the K-1 visa?
No. The DS-160 is used for multiple types of nonimmigrant visas. However, the information you enter will determine that you’re applying for a K-1 visa.

What documents are needed to complete the DS-160?
You’ll need your passport, your case number from the NVC or embassy, information about your travel and background, and details about your fiancé(e) in the U.S.

What if I make a mistake on my DS-160?
If you catch the mistake before submission, you can edit it. If you realize it after submission but before your interview, complete a new DS-160 and bring both confirmation pages to the interview.

Do I need to upload a photo to the DS-160?
Yes, the system may ask for a digital photo. However, the embassy still typically requires two printed passport-style photos at the interview.

Can I save and return to my DS-160 application later?
Yes, you can save your DS-160 application and return to it within 30 days using your application ID.

K-1 VISA INTERVIEW FAQs

What happens at the K-1 visa interview?
A consular officer will ask questions about your relationship, review your documents, and decide whether to issue the visa.

What questions are asked during the K-1 interview?
Typical questions include:

How did you meet your fiancé(e)?
When and where did you last see each other?
What are your wedding plans?
What does your fiancé(e) do for work?
Have either of you been married before?

What happens if I don’t bring all the required documents to the interview?
The visa may be refused or delayed under 221(g), pending submission of the missing documents.

Can I bring a translator to the interview?
Most consulates allow it if you are not fluent in the interview language. Check the local embassy’s rules.

What if my fiancé(e) has children?
Each eligible child may apply for a K-2 visa. Include their information in the I-129F and DS-160, and prepare their documents for the interview.

FINANCIAL AND SUPPORT FAQs

What is the minimum income required to sponsor a fiancé(e)?
You must meet or exceed 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The amount depends on your household size.

What if I don’t meet the income requirement?
You may still file the I-129F, but the K-1 visa may be denied unless you show adequate assets or exceptional circumstances. You cannot use a joint sponsor with Form I-134, unlike other visa types.

Is Form I-134 legally binding?
It is not legally enforceable like Form I-864, but the consular officer uses it to assess whether the fiancé(e) is likely to become a public charge.

DOCUMENTATION FAQs

Do documents need to be translated?
Yes. Any document not in English must be translated, and the translator must certify that the translation is accurate and complete.

Should I send original documents to USCIS?
No. Send copies unless USCIS specifically requests originals.

Do I need to notarize my letters or declarations?
Not for USCIS. However, some embassies may prefer notarized documents for interviews or affidavits. Check with the local consulate.

Is a police certificate required for countries I visited briefly?
Only if you stayed in a country for 6 months or more (or if it’s your home country), and you were 16 years or older during the stay.

How recent must police certificates be?
Typically issued within 12 months of the interview date and must be valid at the time of submission.

LESS COMMON BUT IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

Can we get married before entering the U.S. on a K-1 visa?
No. The K-1 visa is only for foreign fiancé(e)s who intend to marry after entering the U.S. If you marry before entering, you must pursue a spousal visa instead (CR-1 or IR-1).

Can the foreign fiancé(e) work on a K-1 visa?
Yes, but they must apply for work authorization (Form I-765), which may take months to be approved. Alternatively, work authorization is automatically granted once the Adjustment of Status is filed and the EAD is approved.

What happens if we don’t marry within 90 days?
The foreign fiancé(e) must leave the U.S. or risk being out of status. There is no extension or renewal of the K-1 visa.

Can we get married outside the 90-day window and still adjust status?
No. Marrying after 90 days can disqualify the foreign partner from adjusting status through the K-1 path.

What happens if the K-1 visa is denied?
You may appeal or reapply. It’s important to understand the reason for denial before taking further action. Consulting an immigration attorney is highly recommended in this case.

Can we travel internationally while the K-1 is pending?
Yes, but the foreign fiancé(e) should not enter the U.S. until the K-1 visa is issued, unless under the supervision and advice of an experienced immigraiton lawyer. The U.S. petitioner may travel abroad freely.

Need Help Filing Your I-129F Petition?

Filing for a K-1 visa can be overwhelming. One missing document can delay or deny your petition. Herman Legal Group has over 30 years of experience in helping couples file successful fiancé visa petitions.

Need Legal Help? How Herman Legal Group Can Support You

At Herman Legal Group, we’ve helped couples from over 50 countries navigate the K-1 visa process successfully. With over 25 years of immigration law experience, we know what USCIS looks for—and how to avoid delays and denials.

Our Services Include:

Reviewing and organizing your documents
Drafting your letters of intent
Preparing you for the consulate interview
Responding to RFEs (Requests for Evidence)
Translations and affidavits
Criminal history complications

Call 1-216-696-6170
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