The K-1 visa allows a foreign fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States to get married within 90 days of arrival. If the foreign fiancé(e) has unmarried children under 21, they may qualify for a K-2 visa and accompany their parent to the U.S.

Who Qualifies for a K-2 Visa?

• Children must be under 21 years old and unmarried
  
  
• They must be listed in the original K-1 petition (Form I-129F)
  
  
• They can enter the U.S. at the same time as their parent or shortly after (within 1 year)
  
  

Steps After Arrival

• The K-1 visa holder must marry the U.S. citizen within 90 days
  
  
• After the marriage, both the fiancé(e) and K-2 children can apply for adjustment of status (green card)
  
  
• Children must remain eligible (under 21, unmarried) at the time of green card application
  
  

Benefits

• K-2 children can live and attend school in the U.S.
  
  
• They may apply for work authorization (if age-eligible)
  
  
• They are included in the family’s path to permanent residency
  
  

Important Reminders

• K-2 eligibility depends on the K-1 parent’s application—no separate petition is filed
  
  
• Timing is crucial, especially for children nearing their 21st birthday
  
  
• Once the U.S. citizen and fiancé(e) marry, the K-2 child can apply for a green card alongside the parent
  
  

In Summary

The K-1/K-2 visa process allows U.S. citizens to bring their foreign fiancé(e) and future stepchildren to the U.S. to begin a life together. With the right documentation and timing, families can stay united from the very start of their immigration journey.