Understanding the Fiancée of U.S. Citizen [Immigration]: Legal Definition and Process

Definition & Meaning

A fianc©e of a United States citizen is a nonimmigrant alien who enters the U.S. with the intention of marrying a U.S. citizen within ninety days of arrival. This term refers to individuals who are engaged to be married and are seeking to legally conclude their marriage in the U.S. The marriage must comply with state laws where the marriage will take place.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: Maria, a citizen of Mexico, is engaged to John, a U.S. citizen. She applies for a K-1 visa and, upon approval, travels to the U.S. to marry John within the required ninety days.

Example 2: Ahmed, a citizen of Egypt, enters the U.S. on a K-1 visa. He and his fianc©e, Sarah, must marry within ninety days to comply with immigration regulations. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

State Marriage License Requirements
California No waiting period; license valid for 90 days.
New York 24-hour waiting period; license valid for 60 days.
Texas No waiting period; license valid for 90 days.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
Fianc©(e) Individual engaged to be married.
Spouse Legally married partner.
K-1 Visa Visa for fianc©(e) of a U.S. citizen to enter the U.S. for marriage.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a U.S. citizen engaged to a foreign national, consider applying for a K-1 visa. Gather necessary documents, including proof of your relationship and intent to marry. You can explore US Legal Forms for templates to help you with the application process. If your situation is complex, it may be wise to consult with an immigration attorney.

Quick facts

  • Visa Type: K-1 Visa
  • Application Time: Varies, typically several months
  • Marriage Requirement: Within ninety days of entry
  • Legal Status: Nonimmigrant

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A K-1 visa allows a foreign fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to enter the U.S. for the purpose of marriage.