K-1 Visa

K-3 Visa

IR-1 Visa

Visa type

Non-immigrant

Non-immigrant

Immigrant

Approximate total processing time

6-12 months

6-12 months

12-24 months

Where do I file the petition?

The BCIS

The BCIS

May file abroad

What petition form do I file?

I-129F 

I-129F and  I-130

I-130 

Are there any major restrictions I should know about?

Single entry. Valid for 6 months; to marry petitioner within 90 days of entry to the United States and must adjust status

Multiple entry. Valid for two years, but must adjust status   within 2 years

LPR status. Processing for green card begins on entry

Can my fiancée/fiancé or spouse take her/his children?

Yes.  Only unmarried children under 21 but must be issued K-2 visa within one year of the K-1 issuance

Yes.  Only unmarried children under 21 but must be issued K-4 visa within one year of the K-3 issuance

Yes. Separate IR-2 petitions must be filed for each child.  Stepchild must be  younger than 18 years old at time of parent’s marriage

Is an interview required?

Yes

Yes

Yes

Do I submit the I-134 Affidavit of Support?

Yes

Yes

No

Does the Embassy need the original petition & documents from BCIS?

Yes.

Yes.

Yes.