New York City Fiancé(e) Visa Attorney: Strategic Advocacy for International Couples

Reuniting with a loved one in the United States requires navigating one of the most scrutinized pathways in U.S. immigration law. At the Law Offices of Norka M. Schell, LLC, we provide authoritative legal counsel for U.S. citizens seeking to bring a foreign national fiancé(e) to the U.S. for marriage.

As a dually licensed attorney in New York and Brazil, and a naturalized citizen herself, Norka M. Schell brings a unique “dual-lens” perspective to every petition. We understand the technical requirements of the law and the emotional stakes of your journey.

The K-1 Visa Process: A Strategic Roadmap

The Fiancé(e) Visa, or K-1 nonimmigrant visa, is specifically for foreign nationals who intend to marry their U.S. citizen petitioners within 90 days of arrival. The process involves multiple federal agencies, including USCIS, the Department of State, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

1. The I-129F Petition The process begins with the U.S. citizen filing Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e). This stage requires rigorous documentation to prove a “bona fide” relationship and evidence that you have met in person at least once within the two years prior to filing (unless a strict waiver applies).

2. Consular Processing & The Interview Once USCIS approves the petition, it moves to the National Visa Center (NVC) and eventually the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the fiancé(e)’s home country. This stage involves medical exams, background checks, and a high-stakes interview where the couple’s intent is thoroughly examined.

3. The 90-Day Marriage Requirement Upon entry to the U.S., the couple has exactly 90 days to marry. If the marriage does not occur within this window, the K-1 holder must leave the U.S. or risk deportation.

4. Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) After the marriage, the foreign national spouse must file for Adjustment of Status to become a Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder).

To secure an approval, our NYC fiancé(e) visa lawyers ensure you meet all statutory benchmarks:

• U.S. Citizenship: Only U.S. citizens may petition for a K-1 visa (Lawful Permanent Residents must use the IR-1/CR-1 spouse visa pathway).
• Legal Ability to Marry: Both parties must be legally free to marry (all prior divorces or annulments must be finalized).
• Financial Sponsorship: The U.S. petitioner must meet specific income requirements, documented through the I-134 Declaration of Financial Support.
• Meeting Requirement: You must prove you met in person within the last 24 months, supported by travel records, photos, and affidavits.

International couples often face complexities that standard domestic firms are not equipped to handle.

• Brazilian Expertise: If your fiancé(e) is in Brazil, Attorney Norka M. Schell’s dual licensure allows us to provide direct guidance on obtaining Brazilian civil documents, police clearances, and birth certificates that meet U.S. consular standards.
• Thirty Years of Skill: We have successfully managed thousands of petitions over three decades, anticipating common “red flags” that cause delays or denials.
• Bilingual Representation: We communicate fluently in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring that your fiancé(e) feels prepared and empowered for their consular interview.

Q: Can I apply for a K-1 visa if we met online? A: Yes, but you must still meet in person before filing the I-129F petition. Online interactions do not satisfy the “in-person meeting” requirement unless you have physically met in the last two years.

Q: How long does the K-1 visa process take in 2026? A: Processing times vary by service center and consulate. We provide our clients with real-time updates based on current USCIS and NVC backlogs to help you plan your wedding and life together.

Q: What happens if we don’t marry within 90 days? A: The K-1 status expires. The foreign national cannot change to another non-immigrant status or marry a different person to stay in the U.S. Strict adherence to the 90-day timeline is mandatory.

Take the First Step Toward Your Future Together

Do not leave your reunion to chance. The U.S. immigration system is demanding, and small errors can lead to months of separation. Partner with a New York City fiancé(e) visa attorney who understands the complexity of the law and the importance of your case.

Call the Law Offices of Norka M. Schell, LLC at 212-258-0713 or contact us online to schedule your confidential consultation today.