How much does a K-1 fiancé visa cost in 2026?

Phase 1 (K-1 visa itself): $1,060–$1,360 in government fees ($675 I-129F + $185 DS-160 + $200–$500 medical). Phase 2 (green card after marriage): $2,260–$3,390 in government fees ($1,440 I-485 + $820 I-765 + medical). All-in including attorney fees: $6,000–$12,000.

How long does the K-1 visa process take in 2026?

Total K-1 processing from I-129F filing to visa issuance typically takes 8–18 months. USCIS takes 6–12 months to approve the I-129F. Consular processing adds 2–5 months. After entry, the fiancé must marry within 90 days and then file for the green card (I-485).

What happens after the K-1 holder arrives in the US?

After entry, the K-1 holder has 90 days to marry the US citizen petitioner. After marriage, they must file Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) to get a green card. Failing to marry and adjust status by the 90-day deadline constitutes an immigration violation.

K-1 Fiancé Visa Total Cost 2026 — Complete Cost Breakdown

The K-1 fiancé visa is a two-phase process. Most couples are surprised by the total cost because Phase 2 — getting the green card after the wedding — costs more than Phase 1 (the K-1 visa itself). Budget for both phases from the start. The total USCIS and consular fees alone typically run $3,500–$4,750, and with medical exams and an attorney, the realistic all-in cost is $6,000–$12,000.

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K-1 Fiancé Visa Cost by Phase — 2026

Phase 1 — K-1 Visa (Before Wedding)

Fee Item	Payer	Amount
I-129F Fiancé Petition	US citizen petitioner	$675
DS-160 MRV Fee	Foreign fiancé (at consulate)	$185
Medical exam (consulate)	Foreign fiancé	$200–$500
Attorney fees — K-1 only	Couple	$1,000–$3,000
Phase 1 Total		$2,060–$4,360

Phase 2 — Green Card After Marriage (I-485)

Fee Item	Notes	Amount
I-485 Adjustment of Status	Adult fee, includes biometrics	$1,440
I-765 Work Permit (EAD)	Initial, highly recommended	$820
I-131 Advance Parole	Optional — for international travel	$630
Medical exam (I-693, USCIS)	Different from consulate medical	$200–$500
Attorney fees — I-485 phase	Optional	$1,500–$3,000
Phase 2 Total		$4,590–$6,390

Realistic End-to-End Total: $6,650–$10,750

Government fees only (no attorney): $3,350–$4,750. With mid-range attorney: $6,650–$9,750.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the total K-1 fiancé visa cost?

Government fees for both phases total approximately $3,350–$4,750. With a mid-range attorney covering the full K-1 + green card, expect $6,650–$9,750 all-in.

Are there two medical exams required?

Yes. One medical exam is required at the consular interview stage (paid by the foreign fiancé, abroad). A second medical exam (Form I-693 with a USCIS civil surgeon) is required when filing the I-485 green card application in the US. Both are separate fees.

Can K-1 children be included?

Yes. Children of the K-1 applicant under 21 can come to the US on K-2 visas. Each child requires a separate DS-160 ($185) and medical exam. After arrival, each child must also adjust status with a separate I-485 ($1,440 per child 14+, or $950 if under 14 filing with parent).

Is an attorney required for a K-1 visa?

Not legally, but most immigration experts recommend at least consulting an attorney. K-1 cases involve two agencies and two countries. Errors in the I-129F can add months to processing time. Online immigration services offer lower-cost alternatives to full attorney representation.