The K-1 and K-2 visas provide valuable opportunities for United States citizens who have family overseas. Through these visa options, it is possible to bring your family to the country to live, work, and eventually immigrate to the United States. While the application process can be extensive and laborious, the payoff is great. Given the high stakes of the process, however, many families turn to K-2 visa lawyers for assistance.
As compassionate and knowledgeable immigration attorneys, our goal is to help you achieve your dreams in the United States. When you are in the midst of an immigration issue that has the ability to change your life, it is important that you feel supported and uplifted by your legal team. This is what we do at Diaz Law Firm. Through our services, we have been able to help countless families secure the nonimmigrant visas they need to begin their lives in the United States. To speak with an experienced K-2 visa lawyer about your case, consider contacting our Los Angeles office at (626) 261-0402 today.
Who Are We?
Diaz Law Firm was established in 2008 to provide strong and effective legal advocacy to those who historically feel left out of the United States legal system. We hold ourselves to a higher standard in the legal profession, prioritizing our client’s needs and overall satisfaction. What sets us apart is our individualized approach. When you work with us, you will feel heard and understood. You will feel confident in our ability to help you navigate your immigration issue. Above all, you will feel supported and guided by our K-2 visa lawyers through a process that has the potential to alter the course of your future.
What Is the K-2 Nonimmigrant Visa?
The K-2 nonimmigrant visa allows the children of K-1 fiancé visa holders to enter the United States. This is a derivative visa category, meaning the immigration status of a K-2 visa holder is contingent on their parent’s valid status. It is important to note that this visa does not permit the holder to remain in the United States on a permanent basis. Rather, the K-2 visa allows temporary travel, which can be adjusted later by applying for a Green Card.
What Are the Benefits of the K-2 Nonimmigrant Visa?
There are several advantages associated with the K-2 visa that make this an appealing option for many individuals. Some of the most notable benefits of the K-2 nonimmigrant visa include the ability to:
- Live in the United States while waiting for the marriage of the K-1 visa holder
- Study and attend school in the country
- Obtain permission to work using an Employment Authorization Document
- Apply to be a Lawful Permanent Resident once the K-1 visa holder and the U.S. citizen get married
While these benefits are valuable and plentiful, there are also key limitations placed on K-2 visa holders as well. For example, K-2 visa holders are not permitted to change to another nonimmigrant status while in the United States. Likewise, the validity of the K-2 visa is directly connected with the K-1 visa holder’s good immigration standing. Nonetheless, the K-2 visa remains an advantageous option for the unmarried children of K-1 visa holders who wish to eventually immigrate to the United States.
What Are the K-2 Visa Requirements?
To successfully apply for and obtain a K-2 visa, the child must first meet specific eligibility requirements set forth by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the State Department. To qualify for this visa, a hopeful applicant must be:
- The legal child of a K-1 visa applicant
- Under the age of 21
- Unmarried
- Free of past immigration or criminal violations that may prohibit them from obtaining a visa
It is important to note that separate petitions are not required for K-2 applicants. After their parent’s K-1 visa petition has been approved, a child can apply for the K-2 visa with the embassy or consulate. Certain documents will be required when applying for a K-2 visa, including:
- Form DS-160
- Copy of birth certificate
- Passport
- Evidence of Financial Support in the United States
- A completed medical examination from an embassy-approved physician
It is essential to complete and organize all paperwork carefully, as even the most minor errors can result in costly delays in the process. Your K-2 visa lawyer can provide more information regarding the eligibility requirements, application process, and required documentation associated with this visa.
What Is the K-2 Visa Processing Time?
The K-2 visa processing time varies from case to case depending on a number of factors, such as the caseload of the service center that is processing the petition and the K-1/K-2 visa holders’ country of origin. On average, it takes less than one year to process this visa. Many applicants receive a decision within four to seven months. The timeline goes hand-in-hand with that of the K-1 application process, as the two visas are inherently connected.
How Much Will a K-2 Visa Cost?
The fee structure of the K-2 visa can be broken down into three parts: Form I-129F Petition, biometrics, and the visa application fee. The current charges associated with each of these components are as follows:
- Form I-129F fee: $535
- Biometrics: $85
- Visa application fee: $265
It is also important to factor in incidental costs and other expenses. Medical examinations, for example, can cost roughly two hundred dollars. Copying fees, translation fees, and travel expenses may also increase the cost of the K-2 visa.
Hiring a Los Angeles K-2 Visa Lawyer Near You
Preparing to get married and bring your family to the United States is an undoubtedly exciting time in your life. While U.S. immigration law provides an opportunity for the children of K-1 fiancé visa holders to travel to the United States, applying for and obtaining these visas can be challenging.
At Diaz Law Firm, experienced K-2 visa lawyer Cheryl Deptowicz-Diaz has worked with numerous families to successfully secure the K-2 visa for their children. When you work with our team, you can expect to be treated as a unique individual whose story matters. We will look at your situation as a whole and examine all potential challenges to better address your immigration issue. To learn more about how we can help, consider contacting our team at (626) 261-0402 today.