If you are planning to marry a non-US citizen and bring them to the United States, you may need to apply for a C1 visa. A C1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows foreigners to enter the US for transit purposes but can also be used if an individual is traveling to the US to get married. Here is everything you need to know about the C1 visa and marriage.

Key Takeaways

• A C1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows foreigners to enter the US for transit purposes but can also be used for marriage purposes.
• To apply for a C1 visa, you must have a valid passport and complete Form DS-160.
• You must also provide evidence of your intended purpose in the US and sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay.
• If you are coming to the US for marriage, you must also provide evidence of your intended marriage, such as a marriage certificate or a letter of intent to marry.
• Your US citizen partner must also provide evidence of their US citizenship, such as a birth certificate, naturalization papers, or a valid US passport.

How to Apply for a C1 Visa

To apply for a C1 visa, follow these steps:

1. Get a valid passport: Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay in the US.

2. Complete Form DS-160: This is the online nonimmigrant visa application form. You can find it on the US Department of State website.

3. Pay the application fee: The application fee for a C1 visa is currently $160. You can pay by credit card or other accepted payment methods.

4. Schedule an interview: You must schedule an interview with the US embassy or consulate in your home country to complete your C1 visa application. You will need to bring your passport, Form DS-160 confirmation page, and other necessary documents to the interview.

5. Provide supporting documents: Supporting documents include (but are not limited to) evidence of your intended purpose in the US (if you are traveling for reasons other than marriage), financial statements, and proof of ties to your home country.

6. Wait for the visa to be issued: After your interview, the US embassy or consulate will inform you if your visa is approved. If it is, they will issue your C1 visa, which will be stamped in your passport.

Necessary Documents for a C1 Visa and Marriage

If you are coming to the US to get married, the following documents are necessary:

• Evidence of your intent to marry: This may include a marriage certificate or a letter from the institution where you plan to get married.

• Evidence of your partner’s US citizenship: Your US partner must provide evidence of their US citizenship, such as a birth certificate, naturalization papers, or a valid US passport.

• Financial statements: You must provide proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in the US.

• Other documents: You may also be required to provide other supporting documents, such as your birth certificate or police clearance certificate.

FAQ

Can you apply for a C1 visa if you are already married?

Yes, you can apply for a C1 visa if you are already married. However, you must provide evidence of your intended purpose in the US, even if it is to visit family or friends.

How long does it take to process a C1 visa application?

The processing time for a C1 visa application may vary depending on the US embassy or consulate where you apply. However, it generally takes between two to three weeks.

Can you work with a C1 visa?

No, you cannot work with a C1 visa. The C1 visa is solely for transit purposes, and you are not allowed to engage in any employment while in the US.

Can you extend a C1 visa?

Yes, you can apply for an extension of your C1 visa if your original stay is coming to an end. However, you must provide evidence that your stay is necessary and that you have the financial means to support yourself during your extended stay.

Can you bring your children on a C1 visa?

Yes, you can bring your children with you on a C1 visa. However, they must each have their own visa or be listed on your visa application as dependents.