How to Move to the USA with Your Partner: Step-by-Step Guide

 Moving to the USA with your partner is an exciting and life-changing journey. However, it can also be complex, with a variety of visa options, legal processes, and requirements to consider. 

This step-by-step guide will walk you through the necessary steps to ensure you and your partner can successfully navigate the immigration process and start your new life together in the United States.

How To Move to the USA With My Partner in 2025?

Step 1: Determine the Right Visa for You and Your Partner

The first step is to determine which visa suits your situation. The type of visa you apply for will depend on your relationship status, nationality, and the purpose of your move. Some of the most common visa options include:

1. Fiancé(e) Visa (K-1 Visa)
   
   
   • Who it's for: Couples who are not yet married but wish to marry in the U.S.
     
     
   • Eligibility requirements: One partner must be a U.S. citizen. You must show that you intend to marry within 90 days of your partner’s arrival.
     
     
   • Process: The U.S. citizen partner files a petition for a K-1 visa. Once approved, the foreign partner enters the U.S. to marry and apply for a green card.
     
     
2. Marriage Visa (CR-1 or IR-1 Visa)
   
   
   • Who it's for: Married couples who want to live in the U.S.
     
     
   • Eligibility requirements: The couple must be legally married, and one partner must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
     
     
   • Process: The U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse files a petition for their partner. Upon approval, the foreign spouse receives an immigrant visa to enter the U.S. as a permanent resident.
     
     
3. Spouse Visa (K-3 Visa)
   
   
   • Who it's for: Married couples, where the U.S. citizen spouse has already filed an I-130 petition.
     
     
   • Eligibility requirements: The U.S. citizen spouse has filed the immigration petition, and the couple is awaiting approval.
     
     
   • Process: The K-3 visa allows the foreign spouse to enter the U.S. while waiting for the processing of the green card.
     
     

Step 2: File the Appropriate Petition

Once you determine the right visa, your next step is to file the petition. The petition must be filed by the U.S. citizen or permanent resident partner. Here's a quick overview:

1. K-1 Visa (Fiancé(e) Visa):
   
   
   • The U.S. citizen files a petition (Form I-129F) with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
     
     
   • After the petition is approved, the foreign partner will undergo a medical exam, background check, and interview at the U.S. consulate or embassy.
     
     
2. CR-1 or IR-1 Visa (Marriage Visa):
   
   
   • The U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse files an immigrant visa petition (Form I-130) with USCIS.
     
     
   • After approval, the foreign spouse will attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate, where they will be asked questions about the relationship and undergo medical exams.
     
     
3. K-3 Visa (Spouse Visa):
   
   
   • This process involves filing Form I-130 and Form I-129F. Once the I-130 is approved, the spouse applies for the K-3 visa to enter the U.S.
     
     

Step 3: Complete the Visa Application and Prepare for the Interview

After filing the petition, the next step is to complete the visa application and prepare for the interview. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Complete the Visa Application (DS-160)
   
   
   • For most visas, you and your partner will need to fill out the DS-160, the online visa application form.
     
     
   • Provide accurate and honest information about your relationship, personal details, and travel history.
     
     
2. Prepare for the Interview
   
   
   • Documents to bring: Birth certificates, passport-sized photos, police certificates, financial documents, medical exam results, and any documents proving the legitimacy of your relationship (photos, joint bank accounts, communication logs, etc.).
     
     
   • The interview will be at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. The consular officer will assess your application and relationship, and decide whether to approve or deny the visa.
     
     

Step 4: Wait for Visa Approval and Plan Your Move

Once the visa petition is approved and the interview is successful, your partner will receive their visa. You can now plan your move to the U.S. Here’s what to consider:

1. Visa Processing Time
   
   
   • The waiting time for approval can vary depending on the visa type and location, but it generally takes several months. During this time, make sure all documents are in order and plan for the logistics of your move.
     
     
2. Entry to the U.S.
   
   
   • If approved, your partner will receive the visa, which allows them to travel to the U.S. Depending on the visa type, they may be granted temporary or permanent status upon arrival.
     
     

Step 5: Complete the Adjustment of Status (If Applicable)

For those entering the U.S. on a K-1 visa (fiancé(e) visa), you’ll need to marry within 90 days of arrival. After marriage, your partner can apply for Adjustment of Status (AOS) to become a lawful permanent resident (green card holder).

For those entering on a marriage visa (CR-1 or IR-1), permanent residency is granted immediately upon arrival, and no further adjustment is necessary.

Step 6: Apply for Work Authorization (Optional)

If your partner is coming to the U.S. and intends to work, they may need to apply for Work Authorization. If entering on a K-1 visa, they can apply for a work permit once married and after applying for a green card. Those entering on an IR-1 or CR-1 visa can work immediately as they have permanent residency.

Step 7: Enjoy Your New Life in the USA!

After completing all the legal processes, you and your partner can begin your new life in the U.S. Whether you’re starting a family, building a career, or simply enjoying each other’s company, the U.S. offers endless opportunities for personal and professional growth.

What Are The Documents I Need to Request From My Partner?

To ensure the successful petitioning of your spouse’s visa, it is important to gather the necessary documents to prove the legitimacy of your marriage and meet visa requirements. This documentation not only supports your application but also helps expedite the process. Below is a detailed breakdown of the common documents you will need to request from your partner:

1. Proof of Identity

To verify your spouse's identity, the following documents are necessary:

• Passport Copy: A clear copy of your spouse’s passport, including biographical information and any relevant pages.
  
  
• Birth Certificate: A copy of the birth certificate to confirm your spouse’s birth details.
  
  
• Government-Issued ID: A valid government-issued identification card, such as a national ID card, for additional identity verification.

2. Proof of the Relationship

To demonstrate that your marriage is genuine, you will need to provide evidence of your relationship. These documents help prove the authenticity of your union and shared life:

• Marriage Certificate: An official marriage certificate issued by the relevant authority proving the legality of your marriage.
  
  
• Photos of the Relationship: Photos from weddings, trips, or social gatherings that show the couple’s life together over time.
  
  
• Letters, Emails, and Other Communication: Correspondence, such as letters, emails, or text messages, that shows ongoing communication and connection between the two of you. These can also include phone call records and online chats that demonstrate the depth of your relationship.

3. Financial Documents

To prove that you are financially stable enough to support your spouse without reliance on government aid, the following financial documents are required:

• Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support): This is a mandatory form that confirms you can financially support your spouse once they enter the U.S.
  
  
• Recent Pay Stubs, Tax Returns, and Bank Statements: These documents provide evidence of your financial standing and show that you meet the income requirements to sponsor your spouse.
  
  
• If your income is insufficient to meet the required threshold, a co-sponsor can assist. The co-sponsor will need to submit the same financial documents and prove that they can financially support your spouse as well.
  
  

4. Health and Medical Records

Your spouse will need to undergo a medical examination as part of the visa process. You will need to request the following health-related documents:

• Medical Examination: A medical exam performed by a physician approved by the U.S. consulate or embassy. The doctor will assess your spouse’s overall health, including vaccinations and medical history.
  
  
• Vaccination Records: Your spouse must provide documentation of vaccinations, especially for diseases like measles, rubella, and polio.
  
  
• Medical History: If relevant, include any medical records or treatment histories that the consular office may request.
  
  

5. Background Checks

To ensure that your spouse has no criminal background, you will need to request the following document:

• Police Clearance Certificate: A police clearance certificate from your spouse’s country of residence. This document proves that they have no criminal record or outstanding legal issues. If your spouse has lived in multiple countries, certificates from each country may be required.
  
  

6. Other Documents

Finally, if either spouse has been previously married, additional documentation will be necessary:

• Proof of Divorce or Death Certificates: If either spouse was previously married, you will need to provide proof of divorce or a death certificate from the previous spouse. This ensures that there are no ongoing legal marriage obligations.

How Much Do I Need to Make to Bring My Partner (Husband, Wife, Fiancé) to the USA?

When petitioning to bring your spouse or fiancé to the U.S., one of the key requirements is demonstrating that you have sufficient income to support them without relying on public assistance. 

The U.S. government sets specific income guidelines to ensure that applicants can provide for their partner once they arrive. 

Below is an overview of what you need to know about the financial requirements for sponsoring a spouse or fiancé.

Income Requirement:

To sponsor your partner, you must show that your income is at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, which are updated annually by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. These guidelines are used to determine the minimum income required based on your household size, including yourself, your spouse or fiancé, and any dependents.

For example, in 2025:

• For a household of two (you and your spouse), the minimum income is approximately $22,000.
  
  
• For larger households, the required income will increase. For example, for a household of three, you’ll need to earn at least $27,000.
  
  

These guidelines are adjusted based on the size of your family, and the minimum income requirement may be higher if you live in a high-cost area.

Using Assets to Supplement Income:

If your income does not meet the required threshold, you can use assets to make up the difference. Assets such as savings, property, or investments can be considered to meet the income requirement. Generally, the total value of your assets must be five times the difference between your income and the required amount.

For example, if your income falls short by $5,000, you would need assets valued at $25,000 to make up the difference.

Co-Sponsorship:

If your income is insufficient and you don’t have enough assets to make up the difference, you can have a joint sponsor—someone who is willing to step in and meet the financial requirements. The co-sponsor must also be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and meet the income requirements on their own. A joint sponsor helps ensure that your spouse or fiancé is financially supported upon arriving in the U.S.

Other Considerations:

• Household Size: The number of people in your household impacts the income requirement. If you have children or other dependents, you will need to meet higher income thresholds.
  
  
• Public Benefits: The government wants to ensure that your partner will not rely on public benefits such as food stamps or Medicaid, so meeting the financial requirement is essential for your petition’s approval.

How Long Does the Petition to Bring My Partner to the USA Take?

The timeline for bringing your partner to the U.S. can vary depending on several factors, including the type of visa, processing times, and your partner’s country of origin. On average, here’s what you can expect for different visa types:

For U.S. Citizens:

• K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa:
  The processing time for a K-1 Fiancé(e) visa is typically around 6 to 9 months. This visa allows your fiancé to enter the U.S. for marriage, and they must marry within 90 days of arrival.
  
  
• CR-1/IR-1 Marriage Visa:
  For married couples, the CR-1/IR-1 marriage visa usually takes between 10 to 12 months to process. However, processing times can be faster or slower depending on the circumstances, such as the specific U.S. consulate handling the case or any complications that may arise during the petition process.
  
  

For Permanent Residents:

• F2A Family Preference Visa:
  If you are a permanent resident (green card holder), the processing time for the F2A Family Preference visa can take longer, typically around 1 to 2 years. This is due to the visa being part of the family preference category, which has annual limits on available visas and depends on visa availability.

How Do I Write a Petition To Bring My Spouse to the USA in 2025?

Bringing your spouse to the United States involves a legal process that generally requires a petition for a spousal visa. The process varies depending on your citizenship status and the visa type. In 2025, the most common visa options for spouses are the CR-1/IR-1 visa, which provides permanent residency (a green card) upon arrival, and the K-3 visa, for couples awaiting the completion of the immigration process. 

Below is a detailed overview of the steps involved in bringing your spouse to the USA.

Determine Your Eligibility

The first step is to determine your eligibility for petitioning for your spouse. If you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (LPR), you can petition for your spouse to come to the U.S. under the family-sponsored visa system.

• U.S. Citizens: As a U.S. citizen, you have the option to file for either a K-3 visa (if you are married abroad) or a CR-1/IR-1 visa. The CR-1/IR-1 visa leads to immediate permanent residency, meaning your spouse will receive a green card as soon as they enter the U.S. The K-3 visa, on the other hand, allows your spouse to join you in the U.S. while waiting for the immigration process to be completed.
  
  
• Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders): If you are a permanent resident, you can only apply for the F2A spousal visa. This process typically takes longer than the CR-1/IR-1 visa for U.S. citizens, as it is based on a family preference system with limited annual visa availability.
  
  

Petition for Your Spouse

Once you’ve determined the appropriate visa, the next step is to file a petition for your spouse. To do this, you must file Form I-130 with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form establishes the validity of your marriage and begins the immigration process.

After USCIS approves the petition, the case is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC), which will guide you through the next steps. The NVC will request additional documents and help prepare the visa application for submission to the U.S. consulate or embassy in your spouse's home country.

Visa Application and Consular Interview

Once your petition has been approved, the next stage involves your spouse attending a visa interview at the U.S. consulate or embassy in their home country. During this interview, your spouse will be asked questions about the legitimacy of your marriage to ensure it meets the criteria set by U.S. immigration laws.

At the interview, your spouse will need to present various documents, including:

• Proof of identity (passport, birth certificate)
  
  
• Marriage certificate
  
  
• Medical examination results
  
  
• Police clearance certificates
  
  

The consular officer will assess the submitted documents and interview your spouse. If all goes well, the officer will approve the visa, allowing your spouse to enter the U.S.

Approval and Entry

After the visa is approved, your spouse will receive their visa and can travel to the U.S. Upon arrival, they will be granted permanent residency if they are entering on a CR-1/IR-1 visa. For those arriving on a K-3 visa, your spouse will need to marry you within 90 days of arrival and then apply for Adjustment of Status (AOS) to obtain permanent residency.

Bringing your spouse to the U.S. is a multi-step process that can take several months, depending on your visa type and specific circumstances. However, with careful planning and patience, you can successfully navigate the steps to reunite with your partner in the United States.

How Do I Bring My Partner to the USA If I Am an American Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident?

The process of bringing your partner to the USA varies slightly depending on whether you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (LPR), but it generally follows the same steps. 

Below is a breakdown of the process for both U.S. citizens and permanent residents:

For U.S. Citizens:

As a U.S. citizen, you have more flexibility in sponsoring your spouse. You can apply for either a CR-1/IR-1 visa or a K-3 visa, depending on your situation.

1. File Form I-130:
   The first step in the process is to file Form I-130 with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form serves as a petition to prove the legitimacy of your marriage.
   
   
2. USCIS Approval and NVC Processing:
   Once USCIS approves your petition, the case is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC will guide you and your spouse through the next steps, including visa application, submitting documents, and scheduling the visa interview.
   
   
3. Visa Interview:
   Your spouse will need to attend a visa interview at the U.S. consulate or embassy in their home country. If everything is in order, the consular officer will approve the visa, and your spouse will receive their visa to enter the U.S.
   
   

For Permanent Residents:

If you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), the process is slightly different, but still a clear pathway to bring your spouse to the U.S.

1. File Form I-130:
   Similar to U.S. citizens, permanent residents must also file Form I-130 with USCIS to petition for their spouse.
   
   
2. F2A Family Preference Category:
   Permanent residents can only sponsor their spouse under the F2A family preference category, which is a family-based immigration pathway. While this process is reliable, it typically takes longer than for U.S. citizens, as F2A visas are subject to annual caps and processing time.
   
   
3. USCIS Approval and NVC Processing:
   Once USCIS approves the petition, the case will be processed by the NVC, which will then guide your spouse through visa application and the interview process.
   
   
4. Visa Interview:
   After processing, your spouse will attend the visa interview at the U.S. consulate or embassy. Upon approval, they will be granted an immigrant visa to enter the U.S. and, once in the U.S., can apply for permanent residency.

While the process of bringing your partner to the USA is similar for both U.S. citizens and permanent residents, U.S. citizens have the benefit of faster processing through the CR-1/IR-1 or K-3 visas. Permanent residents, while still able to reunite with their spouses, must go through the F2A family preference category, which may take longer. Regardless of your status, filing the right petition and following the proper procedures will help ensure a smooth process for you and your spouse to start your life together in the U.S.

Frequently Asked Questions on How to Move to the USA with Your Partner

Can I bring my partner to the USA without being married?

Yes, you can bring a fiancé(e) to the U.S. through the K-1 visa. You must marry within 90 days of their arrival.

How long do I have to be married before bringing my spouse to the U.S.?

There is no minimum marriage length for U.S. citizens, but you need to prove your marriage is genuine.

Can my partner work in the U.S. once they arrive?

Yes, once your partner enters the U.S. on a visa, they can apply for work authorization, especially after receiving a green card.

Can I visit my spouse while waiting for the petition to be approved?

Yes, but visiting on a tourist visa while an immigration petition is pending could raise suspicion and may affect the approval of the visa.

 

Final Thoughts:

Moving to the USA with your partner is a multi-step process, but with patience and careful planning, you can successfully navigate the U.S. immigration system. From understanding the right visa for your situation to completing the necessary paperwork and preparing for the interview, following the steps outlined in this guide will help you and your partner achieve your dream of living together in the United States.

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