Basic Information about Spousal Visas

A K-3 Visa is a travel document that allows the spouse
of a U.S. Citizen (not a U.S. Resident), who has an I-130 Immigration Visa Petition pending, to enter the United States prior to USCIS approval of the I-130 Petition.
The K-3 Visa was created by the U.S. to create a way to allow spouses to enter the U.S. while they waited for the U.S. Citizen Petition to be approved.

Commonly asked Questions about the Marriage-Based Visa (aka Spousal Visa)

▪ Once approved, how long is the I-130 Petition valid for and what happens if it
expires before the spouse's visa interview?

Approved I-130 Petitions are valid for four months. Once they expire, they may be revalidated
by a Consular Officer at the embassy of record prior to the marriage visa interview.

▪ Once the Spousal Visa is issued, how long does the spouse have to enter the United States?

A Spousal Visa is valid for a period of six months and, generally, may only be used for one entry into the United States.

▪ Will the spouse be able to work once they enter the United States on a Spousal Visa?

Yes. A few months after entering the U.S. they will receive their Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) which entitles them to work in the U.S.

▪ Is the Spousal Visa issued immediately following the embassy interview?

Each embassy has its own unique procedures. Some issue the Spousal Visa the same day and others process it within a few weeks and have it mailed by courier.

▪ Can a Permanent Resident file a petition for a Spousal Visa?

Yes. However, it is worth noting that they may not file for a K3 Visa to speed up the time in which the spouse may enter the United States.