K3 Visa Lawyer Serving Frederick County, Maryland
A K3 visa allows a foreign-citizen spouse of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States while awaiting approval of an immigrant visa petition (I-130). The process involves filing Form I-129F with USCIS and handling consular processing. As a K3 visa lawyer Frederick MD, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides immigration help for Frederick County residents.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Frederick County | Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.)
What Is a K3 Visa?
The K3 nonimmigrant visa is established under the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. § 1101 et seq.) and its implementing regulations in Title 8 of the Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R.). It is designed to reduce family separation by allowing the spouse of a U.S. citizen to come to the U.S. to wait for the approval of an immigrant visa (Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative). The K3 visa is a temporary, nonimmigrant visa that ultimately leads to applying for lawful permanent resident status (a green card) through adjustment of status in the U.S.
Official Government Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.) on the USCIS website. For local court procedures and information, you can visit the District Court of MD for Frederick County website.
K3 Visa Process and Local Considerations
For Frederick County residents, the K3 visa process begins with the U.S. citizen filing Form I-130 with USCIS. Concurrently or after, they file Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)). Once approved, the case moves to the National Visa Center and then to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the foreign spouse’s country for an interview. If the foreign spouse is already in the U.S. on another valid status, they may apply for adjustment of status using Form I-485 instead of consular processing.
- File the Immigrant Petition: The U.S. citizen spouse files Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with USCIS.
- File the K3 Visa Petition: File Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), after or concurrently with the I-130.
- USCIS Processing: Wait for USCIS to approve the I-129F petition and transfer it to the National Visa Center (NVC).
- Consular Processing: The NVC sends the case to the appropriate U.S. Embassy/Consulate for the foreign spouse’s interview and visa issuance.
- Enter the U.S. and Adjust Status: After entering on the K3 visa, the spouse files Form I-485 to apply for a green card.
K3 Visa Requirements and Considerations
The K3 visa requires a valid marriage to a U.S. citizen, an approved I-130 petition (or one pending), and the intention to adjust status to a permanent resident after arrival.
Our Immigration Practice in Frederick County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team handles K3 visa cases and all aspects of family-based immigration for clients in Frederick County. We provide immigration help for petitions, consular processing, and adjustment of status. We have 37 total documented case results across all practice areas in this locality, with an 84% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
K3 Visa Lawyer Near Frederick County, MD
Our Maryland location serves clients in Frederick County and the surrounding communities. We are accessible to residents of Frederick, Thurmont, Brunswick, Middletown, Emmitsburg, New Market, Urbana, and Walkersville.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E. Montgomery Ave, Suite 100, Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: K3 Visas in Maryland
Where is the USCIS office for Frederick County, Maryland?
It depends. Immigration applications for Frederick County residents are processed at the USCIS Baltimore Field Office at Fallon Federal Building, 31 Hopkins Plaza, Baltimore, MD 21201. Removal proceedings are at Baltimore Immigration Court. SRIS handles all immigration matters for Maryland residents.
How long does naturalization take in Maryland?
Naturalization (N-400, $760 fee) takes approximately 8-14 months from filing to oath ceremony at USCIS Baltimore Field Office. You must hold a green card for 5 years (3 if married to a U.S. citizen), meet English/civics requirements, and show good moral character. SRIS assists Frederick County residents.
What is the difference between a K1 and a K3 visa?
A K1 visa is for a fiancé(e) to enter the U.S. to marry, while a K3 visa is for a foreign-citizen spouse to enter while awaiting an immigrant visa. The K1 requires marriage within 90 days of entry, then adjustment of status. The K3 requires an already-valid marriage and leads directly to adjustment of status.
Can I work in the U.S. on a K3 visa?
Yes, but not immediately. After entering on a K3 visa, you must apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) by filing Form I-765 with USCIS. You cannot work until you receive the EAD card. Processing times vary.
Do I need an immigration attorney for a K3 visa?
While not legally required, an immigration consultation with a visa lawyer is highly recommended. The process involves multiple government agencies, precise forms, and strict deadlines. An attorney can handle details, avoid errors that cause delays or denials, and advise on the best strategy for your situation.
Related Legal Help in Frederick County
If you need other legal services, our firm also provides criminal defense and DUI defense in Frederick County. For more immigration information, visit our Maryland immigration hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.