How Long Do We Have to Know Each Other Before Applying for K1

[Matt & Bing 56]

I was all set to start the K1 process. I had done plenty of research and come to the conclusion that this is the best route for me and my fiancee.

So, I met with an attorney yesterday to begin and the attorney says me and my fiancee have to have known each other for two years before sending off the I-129 petition. If not, it will not get approved. I told the attorney that it was my understanding that we only have to have met once within two years of applying. The attorney says those statements are essentially the same, and that we have to have known each other for two years before even applying.

I checked the US Dept of State website (http://travel.state.gov/visa/immigrants/types/types_2994.html#Filing) for info on K1 visa, and with regards to a fiance(e) it says:

"In general, the two people must have met in person within the past two years."

Am I wrong or is the attorney incorrect? Do I have to know my fiancee for two years before even applying? I do not interpret this statement to mean we have to know each other for two years before applying. The operative word is "within". "Within two years" could mean I met her anytime between right now and two years ago and still apply for the K1.

I was blown away by the attorney's statement, as I have known my fiancee for less than two years. I thought I knew what was going on, but now I am a bit confused. If the attorney is indeed wrong, I wasted $100 on a consultation fee for bad advice, from an immigration attorney who should know.

Please let me know what is correct.

Wow, your attorney is an idiot! I am married via K-1 and haven't even known my wife for 2 years!

Do not continue with this attorney!

And thats something to brag about...

Just stating a fact. By the way, we had a beautiful wedding 2 weeks ago and couldn't be happier. Sorry you are so bitter.