Understanding the Letter of Intent to Marry for K-1 Fiancé Visa
When applying for a K-1 Fiancé Visa, one of the essential documents you must submit is a Letter of Intent to Marry. This document serves as a formal declaration from both the US citizen petitioner and the foreign fiancé, stating their genuine intention to marry within 90 days of the fiancé’s arrival in the United States. Understanding how to properly write this letter is crucial for a successful visa application.
What Is a Letter of Intent to Marry?
The Letter of Intent to Marry is a required document in the K-1 Fiancé Visa application process. Both parties must provide separate letters declaring their intention to marry. This document demonstrates to US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that the relationship is genuine and that both individuals plan to proceed with marriage once the foreign fiancé enters the United States.
Why Is This Letter Required?
USCIS requires this letter as part of the I-129F petition to verify that both parties understand the purpose of the K-1 visa and are committed to marrying within the required timeframe. The letter helps establish that the relationship is legitimate and that the couple has serious intentions, not just a casual dating relationship. It also confirms that both parties are aware of the 90-day marriage requirement.
Key Requirements for the Letter
Your Letter of Intent to Marry must meet several important requirements to be accepted by USCIS:
- Separate letters required: Both the US citizen and the foreign fiancé must write their own individual letters
- Signed and dated: Each letter must be signed by the person writing it and include the date
- Clear statement of intent: The letter must clearly state the intention to marry within 90 days
- Personal information: Include full names of both parties
- Genuine and specific: The letter should be personalized and reflect your actual relationship
What to Include in Your Letter
While there’s no official template required by USCIS, your Letter of Intent to Marry should include the following elements to be effective:
1. Personal Information
Begin your letter by clearly stating your full name and your fiancé’s full name. Include your addresses and any other identifying information that helps establish your identity.
2. Statement of Intent
The core of your letter must contain a clear, unambiguous statement that you intend to marry your fiancé within 90 days of their arrival in the United States. This statement should be direct and leave no room for doubt about your intentions.
3. Relationship Background
Include a brief description of how you met, how long you’ve known each other, and the development of your relationship. This helps demonstrate that your relationship is genuine and not entered into solely for immigration purposes.
4. Understanding of Requirements
Show that you understand the K-1 visa requirements, particularly the 90-day marriage requirement. This demonstrates that you’ve researched the process and are prepared to comply with all regulations.
5. Personal Touch
While the letter should be professional, adding personal details about your relationship, your plans together, and why you want to marry makes the letter more authentic and compelling.
Sample Letter Template Structure
Here’s a basic structure you can follow when writing your Letter of Intent to Marry. Remember to personalize it with your own details and experiences:
For the US Citizen Petitioner
Your letter should start with your name and address, followed by a formal statement. Include when and how you met your fiancé, how your relationship developed, and your clear intention to marry within 90 days of their arrival. Mention any visits you’ve made to see each other, your future plans together, and your understanding of the visa requirements.
For the Foreign Fiancé
The foreign fiancé’s letter should follow a similar structure. Include your full name and address in your home country, your relationship to the US citizen petitioner, how you met, and your clear statement of intent to marry within 90 days of entering the United States. Express your understanding of the visa process and your commitment to comply with all requirements.
Important Writing Tips
- Be specific and detailed: Generic letters are less convincing than personalized ones with specific details about your relationship
- Use clear language: Write in simple, direct language that clearly expresses your intentions
- Be honest and genuine: Don’t exaggerate or fabricate details about your relationship
- Keep it concise: While you should include important details, keep the letter to a reasonable length (typically one to two pages)
- Proofread carefully: Check for spelling, grammar, and factual errors before signing
- Sign and date: Make sure both letters are properly signed and dated
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When writing your Letter of Intent to Marry, be careful to avoid these common errors:
- Using identical letters: Both parties should write their own unique letters, not copy each other’s
- Vague statements: Avoid unclear language that doesn’t definitively state your intent to marry
- Missing signatures: Unsigned letters will be rejected
- Outdated information: Make sure all dates and information are current and accurate
- Too brief: A letter that’s only one or two sentences may not be sufficient
- Including incorrect information: Double-check all names, dates, and facts before submitting
When to Write and Submit the Letter
You should write your Letters of Intent to Marry as part of your initial I-129F petition package. These letters must be included when you first file your petition with USCIS. Both letters should be recent (typically written within a few months of filing) and dated before you submit your petition.
Formatting Requirements
While USCIS doesn’t specify exact formatting requirements, your letters should be:
- Typed or neatly handwritten
- Printed on standard letter-sized paper
- Clearly legible
- Properly signed in ink (not electronic signatures for the initial submission)
- Dated with the current date
Final Checklist Before Submission
Before including your Letters of Intent to Marry with your I-129F petition, verify that:
- Both parties have written separate letters
- Each letter clearly states the intent to marry within 90 days
- All personal information is accurate and matches your other documents
- Both letters are signed and dated
- The letters are recent (written within the past few months)
- You’ve proofread both letters for errors
- The letters are included in your petition package
Additional Considerations
Remember that the Letter of Intent to Marry is just one piece of evidence in your K-1 visa application. USCIS will review your entire petition, including other relationship evidence, financial documents, and supporting materials. However, a well-written letter of intent can strengthen your case by clearly demonstrating your genuine intentions and understanding of the process.
If you have questions about writing your Letter of Intent to Marry or need assistance with your K-1 Fiancé Visa application, consider consulting with an experienced immigration attorney who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.
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