Lexington VA K 3 Spouse Visa Lawyer — How Do You Bring Your Spouse to the U.S.?
A K-3 spouse visa allows a foreign spouse of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States while the immigrant visa petition is pending. For Lexington residents, this federal process is managed by USCIS and the Department of State. As a Lexington VA K 3 spouse visa lawyer, Mr.
What Is a K-3 Nonimmigrant Visa?
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
The K-3 visa is established under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), specifically Section 101(a)(15)(K). It is a nonimmigrant visa category created to reduce family separation by allowing the foreign-citizen spouse of a U.S. citizen to enter the U.S. to await the approval of an immigrant visa (Form I-130 petition). The process involves concurrent filing with USCIS and, if approved, an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm handles these detailed immigration matters.
Official Government Resources
For the official law, review the Immigration and Nationality Act (USCIS). For processing and forms, visit the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs website.
The K-3 Visa Process for Lexington Applicants
For a Lexington resident petitioning for a spouse, the K-3 process starts with filing Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) with USCIS. Once the I-130 is received, you can file Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)). If approved, the case moves to the National Visa Center and then to the U.S. embassy in your spouse’s country for the interview. An immigration attorney can manage the required documentation, including proof of a bona fide marriage and the petitioner’s financial ability.
- File the Immigrant Petition: The U.S. citizen petitioner files Form I-130 with USCIS.
- File the K-3 Petition: After receiving the I-130 receipt notice, file Form I-129F for the K-3 visa.
- USCIS Adjudication: Wait for approval notices (Form I-797) for both petitions.
- National Visa Center (NVC) Processing: The approved petitions are sent to the NVC, which forwards them to the appropriate U.S. embassy.
- Consular Processing: Your spouse completes a medical exam and attends a visa interview at the U.S. embassy.
- Entry to the U.S.: If approved, your spouse enters the U.S. on the K-3 visa and can later apply for adjustment of status to a permanent resident.
K-3 Visa Requirements and Considerations
In Lexington, securing a K-3 spouse visa requires proving a valid marriage, the petitioner’s U.S. citizenship, and the intention to adjust status later.
| Requirement | Description | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|
| Valid Marriage | The marriage must be legally recognized in the country where it occurred and be bona fide (not for immigration purposes). | Marriage certificate, joint financial records, photographs, correspondence. |
| Petitioner Status | The petitioner must be a U.S. citizen. Legal Permanent Residents (green card holders) cannot file for a K-3 visa. | U.S. passport, birth certificate, or certificate of naturalization. |
| Financial Support | The petitioner must demonstrate the ability to financially support the beneficiary at 100% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. | Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, with tax returns and employment verification. |
| Medical Examination | The beneficiary must undergo a medical exam by an authorized physician. | Vaccination records and medical examination report (Form DS-3025). |
| Background Checks | Both petitioner and beneficiary must pass security and background checks. | Police certificates from countries of residence, biometrics. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Immigration Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to immigration cases. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, is a former prosecutor whose background in accounting and information systems provides an advantage in complex cases. He is frequently consulted by Indian Consulate officials in Washington, D.C., on U.S. legal matters affecting Indian nationals. Of Counsel attorney Bryan Block, a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience, also assists with family-based petitions and responses to complex USCIS notices.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific K-3 visa results are part of broader immigration outcomes, our approach is thorough. We prepare detailed evidence packages for USCIS and the National Visa Center to establish the legitimacy of the marital relationship and financial stability. We guide clients through each step, from the initial petition to the final consular interview.
Lexington VA K 3 Spouse Visa Lawyer Near You
Our Richmond location serves clients with matters at Lexington courts. We are accessible via I-64 and I-81. We provide legal help for neighborhoods in Lexington. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — meetings are by appointment only.
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: (804) 201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions (K-3 Spouse Visa)
How long does a K-3 visa take to process?
It depends. Current USCIS processing for Form I-129F can take 10-13 months, plus additional time for consular processing. However, if the underlying I-130 petition is approved first, the K-3 visa may be administratively closed, and the process will switch to an immigrant visa. A Lexington VA K 3 spouse visa lawyer can assess which path is faster for your case.
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 you receive the EAD card. Processing times for the EAD vary.
What is the difference between a K-3 visa and a CR1/IR1 visa?
The K-3 is a nonimmigrant visa allowing entry to wait for an immigrant visa. The CR1 (conditional resident) or IR1 (immediate relative) is an immigrant visa granting permanent residence upon entry. The CR1/IR1 is often faster and avoids the separate adjustment of status step and fee required after entering on a K-3 visa.
What happens if my K-3 visa application is denied?
If the K-3 visa is denied at the consular interview, the consular officer will provide a reason. You may be able to reapply after addressing the deficiency, or you may continue with the underlying I-130 petition for an immigrant visa. An immigration attorney can help you understand the denial and plan the next steps.
How much does it cost to apply for a K-3 visa?
Government fees include Form I-130 ($675), Form I-129F ($675), the visa application fee (approximately $265), and a medical exam fee (varies by country). Additional costs include translation, photocopying, and travel to the embassy. An immigration consultation can provide a full cost estimate.
Related Legal Services in Lexington
If you need other legal assistance in Lexington, our firm can help. We handle criminal defense, DUI/DWI cases, and family law matters. For all Virginia immigration needs, visit our Virginia immigration lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.