Are you planning to marry someone from another country? Or are you already married to someone living abroad? If yes, you're probably wondering how to bring your partner to the United States. The two most common visa options are the K-1 Fiancé Visa and the CR-1 Spousal Visa.
Are you planning to marry someone from another country? Or are you already married to someone living abroad? If yes, you're probably wondering how to bring your partner to the United States. The two most common visa options are the K-1 Fiancé Visa and the CR-1 Spousal Visa.
In this guide, we’ll explain k1 vs CR1 visa clearly and simply so you can decide what's best for you and your partner. Let's start!
K1 Visa vs CR1 Visa - Brief Comparison
What is a K-1 Fiancé Visa?
A K-1 Visa allows your fiancé to come to the U.S. to marry within 90 days of arrival.
Who Can Apply?
You must be a U.S. citizen.
You and your fiancé must have met in person at least once in the past two years.
You must marry within 90 days after your fiancé arrives in the U.S.
Process & Timeline
Submit Form I-129F to USCIS.
Processing usually takes around 8 to 12 months.
After approval, your fiancé applies for the visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
After entry, marry within 90 days.
After marriage, your spouse applies for an adjustment of status (green card), which can take an additional 8-15 months.
Approximate K1 Visa Cost
CR-1 Spousal Visa
Requirements
You must already be married.
The sponsor can be a U.S. citizen or a Green Card holder.
Process & Timeline
File Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative.
Wait approximately 12-18 months for USCIS processing.
Complete visa application (Form DS-260), followed by medical exam and interview.
Your spouse enters the U.S. as a conditional permanent resident and immediately receives a Green Card.
Approximate CR1 Visa Cost
Also Read: K1 Visa vs K3 Visa: Key Differences & Better Options
Conclustion
Choosing between the K-1 Fiancé Visa and the CR-1 Spousal Visa depends on your personal situation and goals as a couple.
If being together quickly and having your wedding in the U.S. matters most to you, the K-1 visa is a wonderful choice. It allows your fiancé(e) to join you faster, reducing the time you spend apart and helping you celebrate your special day surrounded by loved ones.
On the other hand, if your main priority is immediate permanent residency and having the freedom to work and travel right away, the CR-1 visa could be better for you—though you'll initially spend more time apart during the application process.
FAQ’s:
1. Which is faster, K1 visa or CR1 visa?
Typically, the K-1 visa (Fiancé visa) is faster for initial entry into the U.S., usually taking about 8–14 months. The CR-1 visa (Spousal visa) usually takes longer, around 12–18 months, but grants immediate permanent residency upon arrival.
2. Is K1 better than CR1?
It depends on your priorities. The K-1 visa is best if you want faster entry into the U.S. and prefer marrying there. The CR-1 visa is better if you’re already married, comfortable with a longer wait initially, and want immediate permanent residency, work rights, and travel flexibility upon arrival.
3. How long can you stay on a K-1 visa after marriage?
Once you enter the U.S. with a K-1 visa, you must marry within 90 days. After marriage, your K-1 status expires, and you should apply for a Green Card (Adjustment of Status). You can legally remain in the U.S. while your Green Card application is being processed, typically for several months or more.
4. What documents do I need for a K-1 visa application?
Commonly required documents include proof of citizenship (petitioner), passport (beneficiary), proof of relationship (photos, travel records, messages), financial support (I-134), medical exam, police certificates, and divorce certificates if previously married.
5. Can a Green Card holder apply for a K-1 visa?
No. Only a U.S. citizen can petition for a fiancé(e) using the K-1 visa. Green Card holders must be married first and apply for a CR-1 or F2A spouse visa instead.
