In the US as a tourist - K1 or K3 for marriage???

[Lxove 0]

Hello Visajourney members,

I have read many guides about the different visa methods and as everybody I feel a bit confused. I am from germany and currently visit my american boyfriend of 4,5 years in the United States. I came here on a visitor visa to discuss whether we should get married right away and file for the visa after (K3) or if we should file for all papers first and marry within the 90 days given (K1).

My priorities are to come back as soon as possible to finally work in the US. I finished all my studies in june and I cannot imagine sitting around in germany in order to wait for the K1 three months or longer process. Will the K3 enable me to work over here faster since we are already married? I also wonder if you have to do the medical exam for the K3 as well? I would prefer to get in done in germany!! I really hope you guys can help me based on all your experiences I appreciate all your helpful answers,

Thank you in advance,

Maria

[Malrothien 6]

Both K1 and K3 will require an adjustment of status - which is an attention process once you come to the US.

I would suggest getting married then filing for the CR1. If granted a visa, you will be able to work right away.

[imaisha 1]

I finished all my studies in june and I cannot imagine sitting around in germany in order to wait for the K1 three months or longer process.

No matter what visa you apply for you should plan on at least 7-12 months for this process. 90 days is the amount of time you have to get married after you've already received the visa and entered the country, not how long the whole thing takes.

[Nik+Heather 121]

Is your #1 priority to return to your SO as soon as possible, or to begin working in the States as soon as possible? It's hard to tell from your post.

Do NOT go for the K3 visa, it's pretty much obsolete.

If your #1 priority is to be back in the US and with your SO as soon as possible, and you can afford the significantly higher fees, and to have one of you out of work for months, do K1.

If your #1 priority is to start working in the US as soon as possible, and you are worried about your financial needs, and can't afford to be out of work, marry and apply for CR-1.

At this time, on average, the K1 will get you here faster by about a month and a half, but then it could be up to 3 months before you can start working (assuming little to no time spent getting married and filing AOS). With CR-1 you get a green card right away, and can then start working.

Also, the K1 is significantly more expensive. Compare the costs (visa AND AOS) as an input to your decision.