Virginia Beach VA K 3 Spouse Visa Lawyer — How Do You Bring Your Spouse to the U.S.?
A K-3 spouse visa allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign spouse to the United States while the immigrant visa petition is pending. The process is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act and involves filing with USCIS and the Department of State. As a Virginia Beach VA K 3 spouse visa lawyer, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
What Is a K-3 Spouse Visa?
The K-3 nonimmigrant visa is designed for the foreign-citizen spouse of a U.S. citizen. It permits the spouse to enter the U.S. to await the approval of an immigrant visa petition (Form I-130). The legal basis is found in the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. § 1101 et seq.). While it offers a path to reunite families, the process requires precise documentation and adherence to strict federal timelines.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | U.S. Code
Official Government Resources
For the official legal text, refer to the U.S. Code (8 U.S.C.). For application forms and processing information, visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
The K-3 Visa Process for Virginia Beach Residents
Virginia Beach residents filing a K-3 visa petition will have their case processed at the USCIS Washington District Office in Fairfax. The process begins with the U.S. citizen filing Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)). After USCIS approval, the case moves to the National Visa Center and then to the U.S. embassy or consulate in the spouse’s home country for an interview.
- File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) with USCIS.
- File Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)) for the K-3 visa.
- Await approval notices from USCIS and case transfer to the National Visa Center (NVC).
- Complete required civil documents and forms for the Department of State.
- Attend a medical examination and visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.
- Enter the U.S. on the K-3 visa and later file for adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident.
Key Considerations and Requirements
In Virginia Beach, a successful K-3 spouse visa application requires proving a bona fide marriage, meeting financial support requirements, and handling both USCIS and consular processing stages.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Immigration Practice in Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm handles K-3 spouse visa cases and other family-based immigration matters. We understand the importance of family reunification and work to guide clients through each step. For Virginia Beach residents, we coordinate with the relevant USCIS office and provide representation case-specific to the specifics of your case.
Case Results and Client Focus
Our firm has documented case results in Virginia Beach. We focus on providing clear guidance for immigration processes like the K-3 spouse visa. Every case is unique, and we develop a strategy based on the specific facts and goals of the client.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Virginia Beach VA K 3 Spouse Visa Lawyer Near You
Our Richmond location serves clients in Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. We are accessible via I-64 and I-264. If you need a Virginia Beach VA K 3 spouse visa lawyer near the Virginia Beach Oceanfront or Naval Air Station Oceana, contact us for an appointment.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: K-3 Spouse Visa
How much does a green card cost?
It depends. Government fees include I-485 adjustment of status ($1,440), I-130 family petition ($675), and biometrics ($85). Total government fees are around $2,200 before attorney fees. Fee waivers are available for eligible applicants on Form I-912.
How long does it take to get a green card?
For immediate relatives, processing often takes 8-14 months. Family preference categories have varying backlogs, some lasting years. Employment-based cases can take 12-36+ months. Applications for Virginia Beach residents are processed at the USCIS Washington District Office in Fairfax.
What happens if I get a deportation notice?
Removal proceedings for Virginia Beach residents are heard at the Arlington Immigration Court. You have the right to an attorney. Options can include cancellation of removal, asylum, voluntary departure, or appeal. An immigration attorney can assess your defense strategies.
What is the difference between a K-3 visa and a CR-1/IR-1 visa?
A K-3 is a nonimmigrant visa allowing a spouse to wait in the U.S. for immigrant visa processing. A CR-1/IR-1 is an immigrant visa that grants permanent resident status immediately upon entry. The K-3 is less common now due to similar processing times for direct immigrant visas.
Can I work in the U.S. on a K-3 visa?
Yes. After entering the U.S. on a K-3 visa, you can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) by filing Form I-765 with USCIS. You cannot work until the EAD is approved and received.
Other Legal Services in Virginia Beach
If you need other legal help in Virginia Beach, our firm also handles criminal defense, DUI defense, and family law matters. For more immigration information, visit our Virginia immigration hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance on your K-3 spouse visa case.