Completing the K-1 Visa Journey at the U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou
American citizens with Chinese fiancés can navigate the K-1 visa procedure through the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou. This detailed walkthrough covers the complete process from initial application to U.S. entry and marriage.
Initial Petition Submission
The process begins with the U.S. citizen filing Form I-129F to establish the relationship and commitment to marry within three months of the fiancé’s arrival.
Petitioner Qualifications
- Nationality Verification: The applicant must be a U.S. citizen
- Documentation Package: Include citizenship proof (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers)
- Relationship Evidence: Provide photos, communications, and travel documentation
- Marriage History: Submit records showing termination of any previous marriages for both parties
- Marriage Declaration: Include statements from both individuals confirming plans to wed within 90 days
Review Timeline
As of early 2026, USCIS typically requires 6-12 months to process I-129F petitions before forwarding approved cases to the National Visa Center.
National Visa Center Procedures
After USCIS approval, the National Visa Center assigns a case number and transmits the petition to the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou for visa processing.
Guangzhou Consulate Processing
The consulate provides specific instructions upon receiving the petition, guiding the fiancé through the remaining application stages.
Digital Registration
The fiancé must register online through the consulate’s approved visa service to arrange the interview and select document pickup location.
DS-160 Application Form
Complete the DS-160 online visa application and print the confirmation receipt.
Health Screening
Schedule and complete a medical examination with a consulate-approved physician before the interview appointment.
Interview Documentation Requirements
Prepare a comprehensive set of materials for the consular interview:
- Valid passport (must remain current for at least eight months beyond planned U.S. arrival)
- Two recent color passport photos
- Birth certificate accompanied by certified English translation
- Police certificates from China and any nation where residency exceeded six months after age 16
- Previous marriage termination records
- Form I-134 Affidavit of Support with financial documentation from the U.S. petitioner
Consular Interview
Attend the scheduled appointment at the U.S. Consulate General in Guangzhou, where consular officials evaluate the relationship legitimacy and documentation completeness.
Visa Approval and Travel
Successful applicants receive a K-1 visa valid for up to six months, allowing single entry to the United States.
The fiancé must enter America within the visa validity period and complete the marriage ceremony within 90 days of arrival.
Green Card Application
Following the wedding, the foreign spouse submits Form I-485 to adjust status and obtain lawful permanent resident classification.
Translation and Documentation Notes
All non-English documents require certified English translations. Police certificates must cover the applicant’s nationality country and any location with residence longer than six months since age 16.
The K-1 visa procedure demands careful attention to Guangzhou-specific requirements and thorough preparation. Chinese applicants should familiarize themselves with consulate procedures to ensure a smooth processing experience.