The entire K1 visa timeline can vary greatly from person to person. Prior to 2018, timelines for this process were usually between 5 to 6 months from start to finish. The new administration’s immigration focus have resulted in extended timelines of all visa types. This is primarily due to a higher workload and increased applicant scrutiny. As of 2018, if you do everything correctly, avoid getting a request for evidence, and aren’t from a high-fraud area, the process is taking on average from 6 to 9 months, from start to finish. Keep in mind all our timelines are rearward looking, I can only give an estimate of approvals I see currently. Immigration is sensitive to many factors like politics, that can change these timeline estimates on a moment’s notice. this is a general estimate based on averages.

1. NOA1: 1 to 3 Weeks
After you file the I-129F, you will get notification that the USCIS has received it (NOA1/Notice of Action 1).

2. NOA2: 5-7 Months
Quite likely the most frustrating wait. This is the time between USCIS receipt and approval. You’ll be notified via NOA2. This timeline has been extended and may grow even longer unless the USCIS catches up.

3. NVC Notice: 2-3 Weeks
When your case moves to the National Visa Center.

4. Embassy Phase: 1-3 Months
When your case moves to the local U.S. embassy.

5. Visa Granted: 2-10 Days
The time after approval until you get the visa in-hand.



Factors That Can Affect Your Timeline

Requests for Evidence (RFE)
The most common delays are brought on by RFEs. The vast majority of these can be avoided if your petition is assembled professionally.

USCIS Workload
In the past, influxes of USCIS workload have affected overall timelines. This could be brought on by changes in immigration processes or policies.

Quality of Your Petition
Petitions that are easy to move through and approve tend to get approved faster.