New Jersey K 3 Visa Lawyer — How Can You Bring Your Spouse to the U.S.?
A K-3 visa allows a foreign-citizen spouse of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States to await approval of an immigrant visa petition. The process involves filing with both USCIS and the Department of State. A New Jersey K 3 visa lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
What Is a K-3 Nonimmigrant Visa?
The K-3 visa is a nonimmigrant visa created to reduce family separation while a Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) is pending. It is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). While it allows a spouse to live and work in the U.S., it is a temporary status that ultimately leads to applying for a green card through adjustment of status.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) | USCIS.gov
Official Government Resources
Understanding the official requirements is critical. You can review the relevant statute on the U.S. Code website. For application forms and processing, visit the USCIS Form I-129F page.
The K-3 Visa Process in New Jersey
The process begins after the U.S. citizen spouse files Form I-130. You then file Form I-129F for the K-3 visa. If approved by USCIS, the case goes to the National Visa Center and then to the U.S. embassy or consulate for an interview. An immigration attorney can help ensure your petition is complete to avoid delays.
- The U.S. citizen spouse files Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with USCIS.
- File Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), for the K-3 visa (you can file this while the I-130 is pending).
- Upon USCIS approval, the case transfers to the National Visa Center (NVC) for processing.
- The foreign spouse completes medical exams and an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.
- If approved, the spouse enters the U.S. on the K-3 visa and can later apply to adjust status to a lawful permanent resident.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Immigration Case?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team has a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We understand that immigration cases are deeply personal. Our approach focuses on clear communication and meticulous preparation of your application to address the specific requirements of U.S. immigration law.
Seeking Immigration Help in New Jersey
If you are looking for a visa lawyer to help with a K-3 petition, contact our firm. We offer consultations to review your case and explain the path forward. Our goal is to provide clear guidance through each step of the immigration process.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 | Local: (732) 651-9900
By appointment only.
Our Tinton Falls location serves clients across New Jersey. We are accessible from the Garden State Parkway and Route 36. We provide 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a K-3 visa and a CR-1/IR-1 visa?
Yes, there is a key difference. A K-3 visa is a nonimmigrant visa for spouses to enter the U.S. while an I-130 petition is processed. A CR-1/IR-1 is an immigrant visa that grants permanent resident status immediately upon entry. The K-3 involves two petitions (I-130 and I-129F) and a later adjustment of status.
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) from USCIS. You must file Form I-765 and cannot begin work until you receive the approved EAD card. This process can take several months.
How long does the K-3 visa process take?
It depends. Total processing time varies based on USCIS caseloads and embassy interview wait times. Currently, it often takes 12 to 18 months from initial filing to visa issuance. An immigration consultation can provide a more current estimate based on your specific circumstances.
What happens if my I-130 is approved before my K-3 visa?
If your I-130 petition is approved first, you should pursue consular processing for an immigrant visa (CR-1/IR-1) instead of the K-3. The K-3 is designed for use while the I-130 is pending. Your immigration attorney can advise on the most efficient path at that point.
Do I need a medical exam for a K-3 visa?
Yes. A medical examination by an authorized physician is a mandatory part of the visa application process. It must be completed before the interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate. The doctor will provide you with a sealed envelope containing the results for your interview.
Related Information: For broader assistance, see our pages on New Jersey Family Immigration Lawyer and New Jersey I-130 Petition Lawyer. Learn more about our firm on our Immigration Lawyer hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Under N.J. Stat. § 14A:1-1, state law governs this practice area.