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Generally, no. The “in-person meeting within the last two years” is a strict requirement. Waivers are available only for extreme hardship or cultural/religious prohibitions, but they are very difficult to obtain.

Income is primary. However, if your income is low, you can use assets (savings, stocks, property) to bridge the gap. Assets typically need to be valued at 3 to 5 times the shortfall amount.

No. She must first apply for work authorization (Employment Authorization Document), which is usually filed along with the Green Card application after marriage. This can take 4–8 months to approve.

You need substantial evidence: photos together (date stamped), airline boarding passes, hotel receipts, chat logs, phone records, and letters of intent to marry from both parties.

For a straightforward case with no criminal history or prior visa denials, many couples file successfully on their own (“DIY”). However, if there are complications (arrest records, previous K-1 filings), a lawyer is highly recommended.

If you do not marry within 90 days, your fiancée falls out of status and must leave the United States immediately. She cannot change to another visa category or marry someone else to stay legal.

It depends on the embassy, but generally, she needs to demonstrate enough communication ability to prove a bona fide relationship exists. Basic conversational English is usually expected.

Certain violent crimes or crimes against minors (IMBRA disclosures) may disqualify you or require a waiver. You must disclose all arrests and convictions on the I-129F petition.

Historically, the K-1 was faster. In 2026, the timelines are comparable (10-14 months for both). The main advantage of the K-1 is that your partner joins you in the U.S. sooner, whereas the CR-1 leads to immediate Green Card status upon entry.

The medical exam will review vaccination history. Requirements typically include MMR, Polio, Tetanus, Hepatitis B, and others. Missing shots will be administered during the medical exam.