How Many Times Can You Apply for a K-1 Visa?

3rd Application For K-1 Visa

US nationals should submit a maximum of two (2) K1 Thailand visa applications for their fiancé. Should they submit a third application, they might be asked to file a waiver explaining why a third application is needed.

The K1 Visa
More popularly known as the fiancé visa, this is commonly applied for by transnational couples who want to get married and settle permanently in the United States. In securing its approval, there are two (2) major factors that consular officers consider. These are the sponsor’s financial capabilities and the authenticity of the relationship. With regards to these aspects, consular authorities may raise questions and doubts if the couple submits a third application. Usually, they may suspect that marriage is simply used for easy entry into the country since petitions have higher approval rates than tourist visas. There have been many cases wherein marriage was used as an excuse for those who want to settle permanently in the US.

If two applications have been received, immigration authorities may investigate this matter further. They may look into why the applicant finds it hard to secure an approval. There is a strong possibility that the third application will be denied. This is most especially true if different beneficiaries have been involved.

What should be done?
To limit the possibilities of doubt and suspicion, couples are advised to determine if they really want to get married prior to filing an application. If there are no marriage plans yet, it is much better to postpone the visa request. Or they could apply for another tourist visa instead. The Thai applicant however must readily demonstrate that he or she will return to Thailand even though he or she will be visiting her partner.

This article was provided by Siam Legal, an international law firm with offices in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, Pattaya, Phuket, and Samui. Siam Legal publishes legal guides to acquiring a US visa in Thailand on its website.

Siam Legal International
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Tel: 662 259-8100