Marriage Green Card vs K-1 Visa (Fiancé Visa)

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The main differences between a marriage green card and a K-1 Visa or fiancé visa are as follows:

K-1 Visa (Fiancé Visa)

The foreign national enters the United States before marriage and then files for a green card after marriage.

The U.S. citizen files a petition with USCIS, and after approval, the foreign fiancé receives an interview for the fiancé visa.

The fiancé has 90 days to marry the U.S. citizen after entering the U.S. and can then apply for a green card.

The couple marries before beginning the immigration case, most of the process occurring outside the United States.
The U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident petitions with USCIS to establish a good-faith marriage.
After approval, the foreign spouse receives an interview for the marriage visa and can enter the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident.

Timing: The K-1 visa involves entry before marriage, while a marriage green card involves marrying before starting the immigration process.

Location: A Fiancé visa leads to marriage in the U.S., while a marriage green card often involves marrying outside the U.S.

Cost: Regarding government filing fees, a marriage visa is generally less expensive than a fiancé visa.