Obtaining a US K-1 Travel Visa for a Thai Fiancee

Every year Americans travel to the Land of Smiles and fall in love with both Thailand and the Thai people. Some are even fortunate enough to meet someone with whom they intend to spend the rest of their life. It often becomes necessary to bring this special someone back to the USA. In order to do this a K-1 Visa is often sought. This article was written to help shed light on the US Immigration process, particularly the K1 Fiancee Visa.

THE K1 VISA FOR A THAI FIANCEE

The K1 Visa was designed to allow an American Citizen to bring a fiancee to the US for the purpose of marriage. Once granted, the Thai fiancée will have six months to travel to the US. After entering the USA the Thai fiancée must get married within 90 days and file for permanent residence or else leave the country. In order to obtain a K1 Visa the US Citizen must file an I-129(f) petition with the USCIS Service Center in either Vermont or California. Following USCIS authorization the packet will be sent to the NVC or National Visa Center and then eventually to the US Embassy in Thailand. The US Embassy in Bangkok will issue instructions to the Thai fiancée about what documentation will be needed and what to do to prepare for the visa interview. The Embassy will also give the Thai fiancée an interview date and time. The Thai fiancée should be prepared to spend most of the morning or afternoon at the Embassy depending upon when the appointment is scheduled.

THE DECISION TO HIRE AN IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY TO EXPEDITE THE K1 PROCESS

Many couples decide to hire an immigration law firm to help with the K1 process. Others would argue that this is not necessary. An Immigration lawyer can assist with the USCIS application and could significantly improve the likelihood of approval. An immigration attorney with an office in Thailand, particularly near the US Embassy, can be a major advantage for the couple seeking a K1 Visa. If the Immigration Law Firm has a licensed US Immigration Attorney along with Thai attorneys and staff, then the US Attorney can expedite the USCIS petition and deal with the US Embassy while the Thai staff can help prepare the Thai fiancée and explain the immigration process in Thai. The Thai staff can also prepare the fiancée by conducting simulated interview questioning in both Thai and English which will be advantageous when it is time for the genuine interview.

Although the US Immigration process may seem daunting at first blush, most obstacles can be overcome with time, patience, and perseverance.

Thanks for Reading,

Benjamin W. Hart, Esq.

The information imparted herein is intended for informational use only and should not be used as a replacement for competent legal advice from a professional. Nothing written in this article should be used in lieu of professional legal advice for specific situations