There are multiple types of visas that can help people separated by international borders reconnect with loved ones. There are family preference visas that allow immediate relatives of permanent residents to lawfully enter the United States.
People who get engaged to someone who lives in another country may need to navigate the K-1 visa program. There are also K-3 visas available for foreign national spouses who do not have authorization yet to live in the United States.
Those looking into immigration options for their spouses may want to consider applying for a K-3 visa. Understanding the three facts below can help them determine if this program is the right option given their circumstances.
Only spouses of citizens qualify
There are certain types of visas that may be available to the spouses of visa holders or permanent residents. However, the K-3 visa program only extends immigration opportunities to the spouses of current citizens. Both natural-born citizens who marry foreign nationals and those with spouses in other countries who naturalize to become citizens might be eligible to sponsor their spouses for K-3 visas under current rules.
Minor children may be eligible as well
If the foreign national spouse has minor children, they may be eligible for related visas. The family can also apply for K-4 visas for their minor children using the same application, Form I-129F. Provided that the citizen filing the paperwork includes the children’s names on the form and submits appropriate fees, children can travel with their parent. Generally speaking, the children approved for K-4 visas can travel with their parent. They can also make arrangements to enter the country later after their parent has successfully entered the United States and managed the numerous challenges of settling into their life domestically after a major move.
The approved packet must remain sealed
One of the most common mistakes that people pursuing K-3 visas might make involves the decision to physically inspect the approved documents after they receive their visas. Unfortunately, this mistake can cause significant setbacks. Typically, the visa holder must provide the sealed envelope with the immigration documents inside at the port of entry to legally enter the United States.
Those who enter the country as the spouses of citizens may be able to adjust their status and become permanent residents. The citizen spouse seeking a K-4 visa may need help understanding the requirements and completing all of the necessary paperwork, and that’s okay. Pursuing appropriate support when applying for a K-4 visa can help people reconnect with their loved ones who are still in another country.