Partner Visa
Uniting Partners in the U.S – Temporary to Permanent Pathways
About the Partner Visa
This visa allows the spouse or fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to live, work, and study in the United States. It supports genuine relationships and offers a clear pathway from temporary entry to U.S. permanent residency (Green Card) through marriage-based immigration routes.
Advantages
- Full work and study rights after receiving work authorization or Green Card.
- Include eligible dependent children in your application.
- Pathway to permanent residency (CR1/IR1) through marriage to a U.S. citizen.
- Allows couples to remain together in the U.S. during the immigration process (depending on visa type).
Requirements
- Must be legally married or engaged to a U.S. citizen (K-1 fiancé(e) visa is available for engaged couples).
- Sponsor must be a U.S. citizen and meet financial support requirements (Form I-864).
- Provide substantial evidence of a genuine relationship (photos, communication, joint assets, visits).
- Meet health and character requirements, including medical exams and background checks.
Visa Options at a Glance
Scenario | Temporary Visa | Permanent Visa | Key Point |
Spouse applying from abroad | CR-1 (Conditional Green Card) | IR-1 (10-year Green Card) | Apply outside the U.S; enter with immigrant visa |
Spouse already in the U.S | Adjustment of Status (I-485) | IR-1 after 2 years | Stay in the U.S during processing |
Fiancé(e) of U.S. citizen | K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa | CR-1 after marriage | Enter the U.S to marry within 90 days |
Application Process
File Petition
Sponsor files Form I-130 (for spouse) or Form I-129F (for fiancé(e)) with USCIS.
Submit Supporting Documents
Provide relationship evidence, identity documents, and Affidavit of Support (Form I-864).
Visa Processing
Case is reviewed by USCIS, transferred to the National Visa Center (NVC), then scheduled for a consular interview.
Visa Approval
Receive visa and enter the U.S., then proceed to marriage (K-1) or receive Green Card (CR1/IR1).