A Form I-129F is a Petition for Alien Fiancé(e) filed through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”). The form can only be filed by a U.S. citizen ages twenty-one (21) and above. Non-US citizens including lawful permanent residents are not able to petition a foreign fiancé(e).
Form I-129F Requirements
Before a U.S. citizen can file for his or her foreign fiance, they must have accomplished the following:
- Have met their fiancé(e) in person within the last two years (evidence includes passport stamps, plane tickets, or photos).
- Provide proof of the relationship and intent to marry.
- Disclose if they met through an international marriage broker and submit additional documents if required.
How Much is the Form I-129F Petition Filing Fee?
The current filing fee for a Form I-129F Petition is US$675. This fee is payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security with a credit card by using a Form G-1450 or ACH transitions with a Form G-1650.
When is the Best Time to Submit a Form I-129F Petition?
A Form I-129F Petition can be submitted at any time throughout the year. Once the petition is received by USCIS, it will be adjudicated according to the date it is received.
Where can I download a Form I-129F?
A Form I-129F Petition can be downloaded free of charge through USCIS at https://www.uscis.gov/i-129f.
Where Do You File an I-129F Petition?
The Petition is filed directly with the USCIS Lockbox in either Dallas, Texas through the United States Post office or Lewisville, Texas if using FedEx, DHL, or UPS. An I-129F Petition cannot be submitted online.
Frequently Asked Questions about Form I-129F Petition for Alien Fiance
Can couples living together file Form I-129F?
Yes. Even if the couple lives in the same country, a U.S. citizen may still file Form I-129F.
What happens after the Form I-129F is approved?
Following a Form I-129F approval, the foreign fiance(e) may apply for a K-1 fiancé visa, which allows the foreign fiancé(e) to enter the U.S. and marry within 90 days.
How long does it take for Form I-129F to be approved?
Currently, eighty (80) percent of I-129F Petitions are approved by USCIS within nine (9) months.
What documents are required to file Form I-129F?
Common documents include proof of U.S. citizenship, evidence of an in-person meeting within two years, passport-style photos, and proof of a genuine relationship (photos, chat logs, travel records, etc.).
What happens if we don’t marry within 90 days after arriving in the U.S.?
The K-1 visa automatically expires, and the foreign fiancé(e) must depart the United States.
Do I need a lawyer to file Form I-129F?
While it’s not required, working with an experienced immigration attorney can help you avoid delays, incomplete evidence, or mistakes that could lead to denials.
How Can Enterline & Partners Support with the Form I-129F Petition?
The U.S. immigration lawyers at Enterline and Partners have decades of experience in representing clients in Vietnam, the Philippines, Taiwan and throughout Asia to file I-129F Petitions and representing our clients in the K-1 visa interview at the U.S. Embassies and Consulates.
Contact us today for more information at info@enterlinepartners.com and speak with a U.S. immigration attorney based in Ho Chi Minh City, Manila and Taipei.
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Copyright 2025. This article is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. This article may be changed with or without notice. The opinions expressed in this article are those of Enterline and Partners only.
