Fiance Visas, Lawful Permanent Residence, Citizenship and Naturalization

Fiancé (K-1) Visas

The Fiancé (K-1) Visa allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign fiancé to the United States to get married and apply for a green card. The couple must marry within 90 days of the fiancé's arrival in the U.S. and then begin the process of adjusting the fiancé's status to lawful permanent resident.

Eligibility and Requirements:

Fiancé Visa Process:

Lawful Permanent Residence

Lawful Permanent Residence (commonly referred to as obtaining a green card) allows individuals to live and work in the U.S. permanently. Green card holders can eventually apply for U.S. citizenship, but maintaining lawful permanent residence also provides benefits such as travel freedom and protection from deportation.

Benefits of Lawful Permanent Residence:

Work and Live Permanently in the U.S.: Green card holders can live and work in the U.S. without restriction.

Travel Flexibility: Permanent residents can travel abroad and re-enter the U.S., although extended stays outside the country may affect residency status.

Eligibility for U.S. Citizenship: After meeting certain residency and other requirements, green card holders can apply for U.S. citizenship.

Benefits of Lawful Permanent Residence:

There are several pathways to obtaining Lawful Permanent Residence (a green card) in the U.S. Family-based petitions allow relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to apply, with immediate relatives of U.S. citizens—such as spouses, children under 21, and parents—receiving priority. Employment-based petitions are another option, where individuals sponsored by employers, including skilled workers, professionals, and certain investors, may qualify.

Those already in the U.S. on a valid visa can apply for Adjustment of Status to become a permanent resident without leaving the country. For applicants outside the U.S., Consular Processing allows them to complete the application process through a U.S. consulate.

Citizenship and Naturalization

Citizenship through naturalization is the process by which lawful permanent residents can become U.S. citizens. Naturalized citizens gain all the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship, including the ability to vote, hold public office, and apply for federal jobs.

Eligibility for Naturalization:

Naturalization Process:

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