K1 vs. K3 Visa: A Guide for Bringing Your Filipina Fiancé or Spouse to the US

If you’re engaged to a Filipina and planning to get married in the US, the K1 visa is made just for you. It’s a step-by-step process, and knowing what to expect makes everything smoother. This part of the guide walks you through who qualifies and what you’ll need to do from start to finish.

Who’s Eligible to Apply for the K1 Visa?

To get started, you need to be a US citizen. You and your fiancée must have met in person sometime in the past two years — unless there’s a very good reason why you couldn’t. You also have to show that you both seriously plan to get married within 90 days after she arrives in the US. Finally, you need to prove you can support her financially once she’s here.

How the K1 Visa Process Actually Works

The first step is filing Form I-129F with USCIS. That’s your official petition to bring your fiancée to the US. Once that gets approved, your case moves to the National Visa Center. The NVC will then send instructions to your fiancée in the Philippines about what documents she needs to prepare — things like a medical exam and police clearance.

After that, it’s time for the big one: the visa interview. This happens at the US embassy in Manila. If all goes well, she’ll get her K1 visa and be on her way to the US to start your life together.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind About the K1 Visa

Right now, it usually takes around six to seven months to complete the whole process if you’re applying from the Philippines. That timeline can shift depending on how busy the agencies are or if anything needs to be fixed along the way. Also, your fiancée can’t legally work while on a K1 visa and can’t switch her status until after you’re married. Most importantly, the two of you must tie the knot within 90 days of her arriving — or the visa becomes invalid.

Already Married? The K3 Spouse Visa Might Be for You

If you and your Filipina partner already said “I do” outside the US, the K3 visa is the one to look at. It’s made for married couples who want to start their life together in the United States. This section walks through the requirements and the steps involved so you know exactly what’s ahead.

Here’s Who Qualifies for the K3 Spouse Visa

To apply, you need to be a US citizen. You also must already be legally married to your partner — and the ceremony has to have taken place outside the US. You’ll need to show that you plan to live together as a married couple in the US and that you’re able to support her financially once she gets there.

How the K3 Visa Process Moves Along

It starts with filing Form I-130 through USCIS. Once it’s approved, your case heads over to the National Visa Center. Just like with the K1, the NVC will reach out to your spouse with the next steps — usually involving document submissions, a medical exam, and police clearance.

After that, your spouse will have her visa interview at the US embassy in the Philippines. If approved, she’ll be granted the K3 visa and can join you in the US to begin your new chapter together.

• Should You Go It Alone or Get Some Help?

  If you’re planning to bring your Filipina fiancée or wife to the US, figuring out the K1 or K3 visa process can feel like a lot. One of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to do it all yourself or hire a visa agency to help. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — both paths have upsides and trade-offs.

  What’s Good About Doing It Yourself?

  Going the DIY route can save you money. You don’t pay agency fees, and you get to handle every part of the process on your own. There’s also something satisfying about seeing it through yourself, knowing you made it happen. Plus, you have full control — no middlemen, no waiting for updates from someone else.

  But keep in mind, it’s going to take time. You’ll need to research each step, gather every required document, and stay on top of forms and deadlines. Mistakes can slow everything down or even lead to a denial. If you’re not great with paperwork or details, it can get stressful fast.

  Why Some People Choose a Visa Agency

  If you don’t want to deal with all the paperwork or you’re just not confident about doing it solo, a visa agency can be a big help. They’ve done this before — many times — and know how to avoid common mistakes. They’ll guide you through each step, help gather the right documents, and take a lot of the pressure off.

  The downside? It costs more. Agencies charge for their services, and not all of them are created equal. You’ll need to do your homework to make sure you’re working with someone experienced and trustworthy. You’ll also be handing over some control, so make sure you’re comfortable with that.

  Staying on Track With a Smart Checklist

  Whether you’re doing everything yourself or working with an agency, staying organized is key. A checklist helps you keep everything in one place and makes sure nothing gets missed. When you’re juggling forms, deadlines, and official documents, a simple list can make a big difference.

  Why a Checklist Makes Life Easier

  Having a clear list in front of you takes away a lot of the guesswork. You won’t feel as overwhelmed when you know exactly what’s needed and what you’ve already done. It helps prevent that last-minute scramble when you’re digging through drawers looking for missing paperwork. Most of all, it gives you peace of mind — and that’s something you can’t put a price on.

  What Should Be on Your K1 or K3 Checklist?

  The details depend on which visa you’re applying for, but here’s a general outline to help you get started. Always check the latest info on the USCIS website or the US embassy page in the Philippines to make sure nothing has changed.

  Sample Checklist for the K1 Fiancé Visa

  For the US citizen:
  • Proof of citizenship (passport or birth certificate)
  • Financial documents like tax returns or job verification

  For your Filipina fiancée:
  • Valid Philippine passport
  • Birth certificate
  • Police clearance
  • Medical exam results
  • Proof of relationship (photos, chats, call logs)

  Sample Checklist for the K3 Spouse Visa

  For the US citizen:
  • Proof of citizenship
  • Tax documents or job info
  • Marriage certificate (from outside the US)

  For your Filipina spouse:
  • Philippine passport
  • Birth certificate
  • Police clearance
  • Medical exam
  • Proof you’re in a real marriage (wedding photos, shared bank records, etc.)

  What Happens After Your K1 or K3 Visa Gets Approved

  Getting that approval letter feels amazing — but you’re not done yet. There are still a few more steps before your partner can hop on a plane and start your life together in the US. Here’s what to expect after the big yes.

  What’s the Deal with the National Visa Center?

  If you’re going through the K1 visa process, the next step after USCIS approval involves the National Visa Center. The NVC takes over to handle the next phase. They’ll collect more documents, update your case status, and eventually pass everything to the US embassy in the Philippines. If you’re doing the K3, the path is slightly different but still goes through similar channels.

  You’ll Need to Schedule a Medical Exam

  Whether it’s a K1 or K3 visa, a medical exam is required. Once you get your instructions, you’ll book an appointment with an approved doctor. This isn’t just a quick check-up — it usually includes a physical, vaccinations, and some lab tests. The exam helps confirm your partner is healthy and meets the requirements for entry.

  The Doctor Sends the Results in a Special Form

  After the medical exam, the doctor fills out a form that’s specific to immigration — it’s called Form I-693. Depending on your case, the sealed envelope might go to the NVC or be brought to the visa interview. You don’t want to open it — just follow the instructions carefully on where to send it or when to bring it.

  You Might Be Called for an Interview

  Sometimes, an interview gets scheduled for the applicant or even the sponsor. If that happens, you’ll get a notice with the time, location, and what to bring. It’s not always required, but if it is, take it seriously and prepare the right way — more on that in a bit.

  Getting the Visa and Passport Back

  Once everything checks out — the forms, the exam, and possibly the interview — your fiancé or spouse will get instructions for picking up the passport with the visa inside. This is usually through a courier service or pick-up point, depending on how the embassy handles it.

  Don’t Forget — There’s Still a Bit of Waiting

  Even after approval, it’s normal to wait a few more months for everything to wrap up. Timelines can shift depending on how busy USCIS or the embassy is. That’s why it’s important to stay on top of things and respond quickly to any requests.

  How to Stay on Track and Avoid Delays

  If USCIS or the NVC asks for something, send it as soon as you can. Don’t wait around. Also, try to get the medical exam scheduled quickly — it’s one of the few steps you can control. Make sure all your paperwork is organized so when it’s time for the interview, you’re not scrambling to find anything.

  Getting Ready for the Visa Interview Without the Stress

  The thought of the interview can be nerve-racking, but it’s really just a chance to show that your relationship is real. With the right prep, it’s totally manageable. Here’s how to walk into that room with confidence.

  Make Sure You’ve Got the Right Documents

  Go over your interview notice carefully. You’ll usually need the applicant’s passport, supporting paperwork, proof of your relationship, and financial documents from the sponsor. Keep everything in a folder that’s neat and easy to flip through. You don’t want to be shuffling papers at the window.

  Practice the Questions Beforehand

  Interview questions usually focus on your relationship and how you plan to live together. You might be asked how you met, what your plans are in the US, and how the sponsor plans to support the applicant. Practice these questions together to make sure your answers match and feel natural.

  Show Up Looking Sharp

  It’s not about being flashy, but dressing professionally helps. First impressions count, and the consulate is a formal place. You don’t need a suit, but don’t show up in flip-flops either.

  Stay Calm and Answer Honestly

  The key is to be real and relaxed. Take your time, and if you don’t understand a question, ask politely for it to be repeated. You’re not being judged — they just want to confirm your relationship is legit and the paperwork checks out.

  Speak Clearly and Don’t Ramble

  Stick to the point. Speak clearly, avoid slang, and answer what they ask — no more, no less. This isn’t the time to tell your life story unless they ask for it.

  Plan for a Little Waiting Time

  Get there early. Even if your appointment’s on the schedule, you might end up waiting. Bring something small to pass the time and stay calm — phones are often not allowed inside, so plan ahead.

  A Few Extra Tips That Make a Big Difference

  Make eye contact when you talk. Be polite and respectful. And don’t try to overshare or add unnecessary details — just answer what’s asked. The interview isn’t a trick. It’s just a final check to make sure everything adds up.