- What is a K2 Visa?
The K2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows unmarried children (under 21) of K1 fiancé(e) visa holders to enter the United States. It enables children to accompany their parent (the K1 visa holder) to the U.S., where they can later adjust their status to become lawful permanent residents.
The K2 visa ensures families can stay together as the K1 visa holder marries their U.S. citizen sponsor.
- Eligibility Criteria for a K2 Visa
To qualify for a K2 visa, the applicant must meet these conditions:
- Be an unmarried child (under 21 years old) of a K1 visa holder.
- Be listed on the parent’s approved K1 visa petition (Form I-129F).
- Meet health and security requirements, such as passing medical exams and background checks.
The U.S. citizen sponsor must also demonstrate the ability to financially support the K1 visa holder and their dependents.
- Documents Required for a K2 Visa Application
To apply for a K2 visa, the following documents are typically needed:
- A valid passport for the child.
- Birth certificate showing the relationship to the K1 visa holder.
- Form DS-160 confirmation page (completed online).
- Passport-sized photographs (as per U.S. visa guidelines).
- A copy of the approved I-129F petition for the K1 visa holder.
- Evidence of the K1 visa holder’s valid visa or pending application.
- Medical examination results.
- Police clearance certificate for applicants over 16 years old.
- How to Apply for a K2 Visa
Follow these steps to apply for a K2 visa:
- Step 1: Include Dependents in the K1 Petition
When filing Form I-129F for the K1 visa, the U.S. citizen sponsor must list the names and details of the applicant’s children to ensure their eligibility for K2 visas. - Step 2: Complete Form DS-160
Each K2 applicant must submit an online Form DS-160 (Non-immigrant Visa Application). - Step 3: Schedule a Visa Interview
Book an appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where the K1 visa holder is applying. - Step 4: Attend the Interview
The child and their parent attend a visa interview, where they must provide documents and answer questions about their relationship and plans in the U.S. - Step 5: Receive the K2 Visa
If approved, the K2 visa is issued, allowing the child to travel to the U.S. with or shortly after the K1 visa holder.
- Fees for the K2 Visa Application
- Form DS-160 Fee: $185 (per applicant).
- Additional costs may include medical exams and document translations.
- Processing Times for a K2 Visa
Processing times for a K2 visa depend on:
- The time taken to process the K1 petition.
- The availability of interview appointments at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Typically, K1 and K2 visa applications are processed together, taking 6–12 months on average.
- K2 Visa Validity and Adjustment of Status
The K2 visa allows dependents to stay in the U.S. until the K1 visa holder’s 90-day period expires. After the K1 visa holder marries their U.S. citizen sponsor, K2 visa holders can apply to adjust their status (Form I-485) to become lawful permanent residents (green card holders). - Benefits of the K2 Visa
- Education: K2 visa holders can enroll in U.S. schools while their parent’s status is being resolved.
- Family Reunification: Keeps families together during the immigration process.
- Path to Green Card: Provides a clear pathway to permanent residency once the K1 visa holder marries.
- Challenges and Common Issues
- Age Limit: K2 applicants must enter the U.S. before turning 21 to remain eligible.
- Timing of Entry: K2 visa holders must travel with or after the K1 visa holder.
- Documentation Issues: Missing or incorrect paperwork can delay the visa process.
- Conclusion
The K2 visa is an essential pathway for the children of K1 visa holders to join their parents in the U.S. By understanding the application process, gathering the required documents, and following U.S. immigration laws, families can navigate this process successfully and transition to permanent residency together. - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can a K2 visa holder work in the U.S.?
Yes, after applying for work authorization (Form I-765) upon arrival in the U.S. - Do K2 visa holders need to adjust their status separately?
Yes, each K2 visa holder must file their own Form I-485 to adjust their status. - What happens if the K1 visa holder doesn’t marry within 90 days?
The K2 visa holder’s status will expire, and they must leave the U.S. - Can a K2 visa holder apply for a green card if they turn 21?
No, they must adjust their status before turning 21 to remain eligible. - Can K2 visa holders travel outside the U.S.?
Yes, but they should apply for advance parole (Form I-131) to re-enter the U.S. after traveling. - Is the K2 visa automatically granted with the K1 visa?
No, each K2 visa applicant must submit a separate application and meet the requirements.