If your fiancé(e) has entered the United States on a K-1 fiancé visa, the next step after your wedding is applying for a K-1 adjustment of status to obtain a green card. Because the K-1 is a non-immigrant visa, your spouse must formally change their status to a lawful permanent resident in order to live and work in the U.S. long-term.
This guide explains the K-1 adjustment of status process, required forms and documents, what to expect at your USCIS interview, and how a K-1 visa attorney can help make the process to a marriage green card smoother.
Filing for Adjustment of Status After a K-1 Visa Marriage
After your marriage (which must take place within the 90-day K-1 visa validity period), your spouse can begin the adjustment process. The following forms are required:
- Form I-485 – Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
The main green card application, filed after the marriage. - Form I-864 – Affidavit of Support
Shows that you (the U.S. citizen) can financially support your spouse at 125% above federal poverty guidelines. If your income is insufficient, a joint sponsor may be required. - Form I-693 – Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record
Completed by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon to confirm medical eligibility. - Form I-765 – Application for Employment Authorization (optional)
Allows your spouse to legally work in the U.S. while waiting for the green card. - Form I-131 – Application for Advance Parole (optional)
Grants permission to travel abroad while the green card application is pending. Leaving the U.S. without this approval can result in the case being denied.
Supporting Documents
Along with the above forms, you must submit copies of important documents, such as:
- I-129F approval notice
- Your marriage certificate
- Passport biographic page and K-1 visa
- I-94 arrival/departure record
- Birth certificate of your spouse
- Any prior EAD cards
- Two passport-style photos
- Bona Fide Marriage Joint Documents
What Happens After You File?
Once USCIS receives the application package and filing fees:
- Receipt Notice (Form I-797): Confirms your case has been accepted.
- Biometrics Appointment: Your spouse will be scheduled for fingerprints and photographs.
- Adjustment of Status Interview: Both you and your spouse must attend an in-person interview at a USCIS field office. You will need to bring documents such as passports, marriage certificate, proof of bona fide relationship (photos, joint finances, lease/mortgage, utility bills), and financial records.
If approved:
- If married less than two years, your spouse will receive a two-year conditional green card. You must later file Form I-751 to remove conditions.
- If married two years or longer, your spouse will receive a 10-year permanent green card.
Read more about these conditional green cards on our CR1 and IR1 Visa Guide.
After meeting residency requirements, your spouse may eventually apply for U.S. citizenship (naturalization).
Why Work With an Attorney?
The K-1 adjustment of status process is complex, and mistakes can delay or even jeopardize your case. Our experienced immigration lawyer can:
- Ensure all required forms are completed correctly
- Prepare you for the USCIS interview
- Handle RFEs (Requests for Evidence) or complications
Get Help With Your K-1 Adjustment of Status at ILOLA
At ILOLA, we’ve helped countless couples successfully complete the K-1 visa and adjustment of status process. Our team provides both compassionate support and legal expertise to help your fiancé(e) secure their green card. We have a 5-star rating on Google with over 235 reviews and a 99% approval rating.
Call us at (213) 375-4084 or contact us online to schedule a consultation today.
