Form I-129F
Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)
Also known as: K-1 visa petition
Begin the K-1 fiancé(e) visa process so a U.S. citizen's foreign fiancé(e) can enter the U.S. to marry within 90 days of arrival.
Filing fee
$675
Processing time
10–18 months
Varies by service center
Online filing
Paper only
Mail to USCIS lockbox
Form edition
2024
Only the current edition is accepted
Who files Form I-129F?
U.S. citizens — not lawful permanent residents — who intend to marry a foreign-born partner in the United States.
Where to file
Mail to the USCIS Dallas Lockbox.
Always verify the current address or online filing option on the official USCIS Form I-129F page before sending — lockbox assignments change.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Insufficient evidence the couple has met in person within the last 2 years
- Filing without proof the U.S. petitioner is legally free to marry (divorce decrees, death certificates)
- Submitting weak relationship evidence — photos and chat logs are expected, not optional
Filing tips
- After K-1 approval, the fiancé(e) must marry within 90 days of entry or depart the U.S.
- The K-1 visa includes derivative K-2 visas for unmarried children under 21
- After marriage, the foreign spouse files I-485 for adjustment of status
Frequently asked questions
What is Form I-129F?
Begin the K-1 fiancé(e) visa process so a U.S. citizen's foreign fiancé(e) can enter the U.S. to marry within 90 days of arrival.
Who files Form I-129F?
U.S. citizens — not lawful permanent residents — who intend to marry a foreign-born partner in the United States.
How much is the Form I-129F filing fee?
The current filing fee is $675. Confirm the current amount on USCIS.gov before filing — fees changed most recently in the 2024 USCIS fee rule.
How long does Form I-129F take to process?
USCIS currently reports 10 months to 18 months for most cases. Processing times vary by service center and workload. Check the USCIS Case Processing Times tool for the latest estimates.
Can I file Form I-129F online?
No. Form I-129F must be filed on paper and mailed to the designated USCIS lockbox or service center. Check the form's official USCIS page for the correct mailing address.
Related forms
Cost deep dive
Looking for a full cost breakdown including biometric fees, fee waivers, and payment methods? See the Form I-129F cost page.
Sources & Citations
All claims in this guide link to primary government sources.
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- 2USCIS Case Processing Times— USCIS
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Not legal advice. This page is a plain-English summary for educational use. Current fees, processing times, and filing locations are controlled by USCIS and may change without notice. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.