Covington VA K3 Spouse Visa Lawyer — How Can We Help You?
A Covington VA K3 spouse visa lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can guide you through the process of bringing your foreign-citizen spouse to the United States. The K-3 visa is a nonimmigrant visa for the spouse of a U.S. citizen, allowing them to enter the U.S. to await approval of an immigrant visa petition.
Understanding the K-3 Spouse Visa Process
The K-3 nonimmigrant visa is designed to reduce family separation by allowing the foreign spouse of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States while the underlying immigrant visa petition (Form I-130) is pending. It is a two-step process involving petitions filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and, subsequently, the U.S. Department of State.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services | U.S. Department of State
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background that provides an advantage in handling detailed legal processes.
Official Government Resources
For accurate information, always refer to official government sources. The USCIS website provides the official forms, instructions, and processing times for family-based petitions. The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs oversees the visa application process at U.S. embassies and consulates abroad.
Procedural Insights for a K-3 Visa Case
The process requires precise timing and documentation. First, the U.S. citizen spouse must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with USCIS. Once the I-130 is received, the citizen can file Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), for the K-3 visa. Approval leads to processing through the National Visa Center and the U.S. embassy in the foreign spouse’s country.
- File the Immigrant Petition: The U.S. citizen spouse submits Form I-130 to USCIS to establish the qualifying relationship.
- File the K-3 Petition: After receiving the I-130 receipt notice, file Form I-129F for the K-3 nonimmigrant visa.
- National Visa Center (NVC) Processing: If both petitions are approved, the case is sent to the NVC, which coordinates with the appropriate U.S. embassy.
- Complete Visa Application: The foreign spouse completes the online visa application (DS-160), pays fees, and gathers required civil documents.
- Attend the Visa Interview: The foreign spouse attends a medical exam and an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Receive Visa and Travel: Upon approval, the K-3 visa is placed in the passport, allowing travel to the U.S. to await the final adjudication of the immigrant visa.
Why Choose Our Firm for Immigration Matters
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to our clients. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to handling cases that cross jurisdictional lines. We understand the personal stakes involved in family-based immigration and work to guide you through each step.
Our Approach to Your Case
We provide focused representation for K-3 spouse visa cases. Our role is to prepare and file the necessary petitions accurately, advise you on supporting evidence, and prepare you for each stage of the process. While we cannot aim for a specific outcome, our goal is to present a strong, well-documented case to the relevant government agencies.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Covington Area Immigration Team
If you need a Covington VA K3 spouse visa lawyer, our team is accessible. We serve clients in Covington and surrounding communities in the Alleghany Highlands region. For immediate immigration help, call for a 24/7 phone consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Frequently Asked Questions: K-3 Spouse Visas
What is the main benefit of a K-3 visa?
It allows the foreign-citizen spouse of a U.S. citizen to live in the United States while waiting for the approval of their immigrant visa (green card) petition, reducing family separation.
Can I work in the U.S. on a K-3 visa?
Yes, but you must apply for work authorization. After entering the U.S. on a K-3 visa, you can file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with USCIS. You cannot work until you receive the Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
How long does the K-3 visa process take?
It depends. Processing times vary based on USCIS caseloads and the specific U.S. embassy involved. The entire process, from filing the initial petition to visa issuance, can take several months to over a year. An immigration consultation can provide a clearer timeline based on current data.
Do I need a medical exam for the K-3 visa?
Yes. The foreign spouse must undergo a medical examination by an authorized physician before the visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
What happens after I enter the U.S. on a K-3 visa?
You must apply to adjust your status to become a lawful permanent resident (get a green card). This involves filing Form I-485 with USCIS. It is a separate process from the K-3 visa, and a visa lawyer can help you manage this next critical step.
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Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Immigration laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance on your specific situation.