A bunch of questions from a Canadian student wanting a K-1 visa

[Aroy 0]

Hi, I am a Canadian student currently on a soon to be done student permit thingy. I have a girlfriend of 6 years that I want to marry (she is American). I have read that it is possible to visit while on the the visa is pending, but I have some specific questions.

While on the K1, I have to marry within 90 days (correct?) after this it becomes a K3 spousal visa?

On a spousal visa will I be able to apply to schools (PhD programs) and if I get in will I need another student visa/permit does the spousal cover it?

We are going to talk to a lawyer soon, but in some of your guys' opinions, is it a better Idea for me to just come back on for a visit while I apply to PhD schools? We would save the K1 for when I was done/almost done my PhD program?

as usual, very flustered/confused/nervous/anxious. Thank-you for any feedback.

Edited July 13, 2014 by Aroy

[Darnell 8,479]

we've a comparison page in the GUIDES section - check it out, when logged in from a PC.

[canadian_wife 1,829]

If you apply for, and are granted, a K1 visa, you travel to the US on that visa. Part of the terms of that visa is you marry within 90 days. After that, you will apply for an adjustment of status to a green card.

If you follow the K1 path, you never need to bother yourself with a K3.

This is a DYI site, heavily in the "Y", start reading. Educate yourself on the process, then discuss your options with your fiancé to determine the best path for your family.

Good luck

[KayDeeCee 4,896]

Compare visas > http://www.visajourney.com/content/compare

If you want to marry now and do not need to leave the US within the next few months for anything, then you could also marry, stay and file for adjustment of status to permanent residency from your student visa > http://www.visajourney.com/content/i130guide2

~ Moved from K-1 Process to What Visa Do I Need - OP still deciding on immigration path~