There are various types of U.S. visas. Spouses of U.S. citizens can travel to the United States by applying for a U.S. marriage-based visa. So, how do you apply for a U.S. marriage-based visa? What documents are required for the application? Below is an introduction to the application documents for U.S. marriage-based visas.
The K visa is for the fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen and their minor unmarried children, stepchildren, or adopted children. Specifically: the K-1 visa is issued exclusively to the fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen; the K-2 visa is issued to the unmarried children under 21 years of age of the K-1 visa holder, including stepchildren (children born to their previous spouse) and adopted children.
Applying for Permanent Residence After Entry
1. After the fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen enters the United States with a K-1 visa, the couple must marry within 90 days.
2. After marriage, the K-1 visa holder will be granted "conditional permanent residence" for a period of two years.
3. Within 90 days before the two-year period expires, they must apply to the immigration authorities to become a permanent resident. Conditional residents may also adjust their status while abroad to become formal permanent residents.
U.S. Marriage-Based Visa Documents:
1. Valid passport and large one-inch photos (must match the passport photo);
2. Relevant documents and materials of the applicant (including proof of identity, proof of marital status, proof of whether there are children, proof of kinship, health certificate, etc., which must be notarized by a foreign-related notary office and authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs);
3. Originals of correspondence;
4. Letter of intent to marry (including proposed date and location of marriage, etc.);
5. Household register (Hukou) and identity card;
6. Proof of marital status and an introduction letter stating who the applicant intends to marry, issued by the local government at or above the county level where the applicant's household is registered, or by their employer;
7. Photos of the applicant and their fiancé(e) together.