If you’re in a relationship with a foreign national and want to bring them to the United States, you have two main options: the CR1 immigrant visa and the K1 fiancé visa. While both lead to a green card and permanent residency, they differ significantly in process, timeline, and eligibility.
This guide breaks down the differences between the CR1 (spouse) visa and the K1 (fiancé) visa, so you can choose the best path for your situation in 2025.
1. Overview: CR1 vs. K1 Visa
| Feature | CR1 Visa | K1 Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Relationship | Legally married | Engaged, not yet married |
| Visa Type | Immigrant visa | Non-immigrant visa |
| Entry Purpose | Enter U.S. as permanent resident | Enter to get married within 90 days |
| Green Card Process | Green card after entry | Green card after marriage and adjustment of status |
| Timeline | 12–18 months | 9–15 months (then additional green card wait) |
| Cost | Lower overall | Higher due to adjustment of status |
2. What Is a CR1 Visa?
The CR1 visa (Conditional Resident) is for foreign spouses of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (LPRs).
Who Can Apply:
- You must be legally married to your spouse
- The U.S. petitioner must be a citizen or green card holder
- You must prove the marriage is genuine and not for immigration benefits
CR1 Visa Process:
- U.S. citizen files Form I-130 with USCIS
- USCIS approves the petition
- Case goes to National Visa Center (NVC)
- Foreign spouse completes DS-260 and submits documents
- Interview at U.S. embassy/consulate abroad
- If approved, spouse receives CR1 visa to enter U.S.
Upon arrival, the foreign spouse becomes a conditional permanent resident (green card valid for 2 years initially).
3. What Is a K1 Visa?
The K1 visa is for foreign fiancés of U.S. citizens only (not green card holders).
Who Can Apply:
- Both partners must be legally free to marry
- Must have met in person within the last 2 years (with some exceptions)
- Must plan to marry within 90 days of arrival in the U.S.
K1 Visa Process:
- U.S. citizen files Form I-129F with USCIS
- USCIS approves petition and forwards to NVC
- Foreign fiancé completes DS-160, attends visa interview abroad
- If approved, enters U.S. on K1 visa
- Couple must marry within 90 days
- Foreign spouse then files for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) to get green card
4. Pros and Cons of Each Visa Type
✅ CR1 Visa Pros:
- Green card is granted upon arrival
- Lower total cost
- Allows work and travel immediately
❌ CR1 Cons:
- Requires legal marriage before applying
- Longer wait time before reunion
✅ K1 Visa Pros:
- Faster path to reunite
- Allows couples to marry in the U.S.
- Gives time to plan U.S. wedding
❌ K1 Cons:
- Adjustment of status takes extra time and cost
- Work authorization is delayed unless separately applied for
- Non-immigrant visa scrutiny may be stricter
5. Cost Comparison
| Expense | CR1 | K1 + AOS (Adjustment of Status) |
|---|---|---|
| USCIS Filing Fees | $535 (I-130) | $535 (I-129F) |
| NVC & Visa Fees | ~$445 | ~$265 + $1,225 (AOS) |
| Medical Exam | ~$200 | ~$200 |
| Work Permit (if needed) | N/A | Included in AOS |
| Total Estimated | ~$1,200 | ~$2,200+ |
6. Which Visa Is Right for You?
Choose the CR1 visa if:
- You’re already married
- You want your spouse to arrive with green card status
- You’re okay waiting 12–18 months for approval
Choose the K1 visa if:
- You’re not married yet but want to be
- You prefer to marry in the U.S.
- You want to reunite sooner, even if the green card takes longer
7. What Happens After Arrival?
CR1 Visa Holder:
- Receives green card by mail within weeks
- Can work and travel immediately
- Must file to remove conditions (Form I-751) after 2 years
K1 Visa Holder:
- Must marry within 90 days of entry
- Files Form I-485 for green card
- Waits for biometrics, interview, and approval
- Must also remove conditions after 2 years
8. Common Reasons for Denial
- Incomplete or inconsistent paperwork
- Suspicion of fraudulent or sham relationship
- Insufficient evidence of bona fide relationship (photos, messages, travel history)
- Prior immigration violations or criminal records
- Medical or financial ineligibility
Always be honest and provide plenty of proof that your relationship is real.
Final Thoughts
Whether you go with the CR1 visa or the K1 fiancé visa, bringing your loved one to the U.S. is possible — with patience, planning, and accurate paperwork. Each path has its pros and trade-offs, and the right one depends on your relationship timeline and immigration goals.
When in doubt, consult a trusted immigration attorney to avoid delays or denials.
