Three Important Things to Know About K-3 Spousal Visas
There are many different types of visas that can help family members in foreign countries reunite with their loved ones in the United States. A family preference visa can help immediate relatives of lawful permanent residents to enter the country. Citizens and lawful permanent residents in the U.S. who are engaged to someone in another country often need help navigating the K-1 visa program. When a person is married to a foreign national who wants to enter the country, a K-3 visa may be available.
Applying for a K-3 spousal visa is not always easy and even the smallest mistake can put an application at risk. Below, our Atlanta family immigration lawyer explains three important things to know about these visas.
Only Spouses of American Citizens are Eligible
There are other types of visas that are available to spouses of lawful permanent residents or visa holders. However, K-3 visas are only available to spouses of American citizens. People who were born in the United States and marry a foreign national can sponsor their spouses for K-3 visas, as can immigrants who successfully went through the naturalization process and became American citizens.
Minor Children May Also Qualify
If the spouse in a foreign country has minor children, they may qualify for visas related to the K-3. Families can also apply for K-4 visas for minor children using Form I-129F. Minor children can travel with their parents as long as the American citizen filing the paperwork includes the names of the children on the form and pays the appropriate fees. After a child is approved for a K-4 visa, they can make arrangements to enter the U.S. after the parent has successfully entered the country and handled the various challenges of settling into their new domestic life after such a major relocation.
The Package Must Stay Sealed
One of the biggest and most common mistakes people make is opening their K-3 visa package upon approval. It is natural to want to see the visas and other approved documents. However, this mistake is a costly one. When trying to enter the United States legally at a port of entry, the K-3 visa package must typically provide an officer with the sealed package.
If the package is not sealed, it may create delays or complications in the immigration process. If the package is opened, it is imperative to contact the U.S. Consulate that issued the visa. They may need to issue another one or they may provide further instructions.
Our Family Immigration Lawyer in Atlanta Can Provide the Legal Advice You Need
Foreign nationals who are the spouse of an American citizen may be able to adjust their status and become lawful permanent residents. However, it is critical to understand the requirements and complete all of the necessary paperwork. Our Atlanta family immigration lawyer can provide the legal advice you need and help you navigate the process. For a consultation to discuss your needs and case, please call Shirazi Immigration Law, Inc. today at 404-523-3611.
Source:
travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/family-immigration/nonimmigrant-visa-for-a-spouse-k-3.html
