US immigration authorities are keen on checking that those traveling into the country are faithful to their stated purpose. Even those who apply for a tourist visa or different types of visas are assumed to be attempting immigrants. It holds even more true for foreigners who have an American partner.
For a smoother application process, make sure to secure all requirements and necessary evidence to back up your reason for traveling to the US. Finalize the length of your stay and provide proof of financial capability to support the visit.
In going to the United States, a US visa is a requirement that immigration authorities strictly check. For your Asian partner to successfully travel to the US, whether for a short visit or permanent residency, here are the types of visas they can apply for.
Tourist Visa (B-1 US visa & B-2 US visa)
For temporary travel to the US, an Asian national can apply for a US tourist visa. This visa is for business-related or recreational purposes.
B-1 US Visa
If your partner has business matters to attend to in the US, such as meetings, conferences, consultations, contract signing, etc., then the B-1 visa would be the visa for them.
B-2 US Visa
If they have no official business in the states, then they can apply for the B-2 visa. It is mainly for visiting friends and family, having a vacation, or any other recreational reason such as tourism. The B-2 visa also covers medical purposes if your partner will be receiving treatment in a US institute.
Reasons for traveling to the US may overlap between the two. In this case, both visas are merged into one and called the B-1/B-2 visa.
US K1 Fiancée Visa
The K1 visa or the US Fiancée visa is a better choice if you and your partner are at a more serious stage in your relationship and have plans of getting married soon. The application for this visa is complicated and tedious. It requires that you have intentions of marrying your partner within 90 days, starting from when they set foot in the US.
After filing a petition for your partner to have a K1 visa and complying with the other requirements, the application process will generally take a few months to a year. During this time, you have the opportunity to get to know your partner and spend more time with them before officially tying the knot.
Immigrant Visa (CR-1 and IR-1)
In bringing a spouse to the US, you can apply for the CR-1 or IR-1 visa. The choice between which should you avail would depend on the length of your marriage.
The CR-1 visa is for couples who have been married for a few months or less than two years. This visa provides the holder conditional permanent residency and a work permit.
For partners who have been married for longer, the IR-1 visa is the more suitable option. The spouse will be given unconditional permanent residency and will also be allowed to work.
In any case, it is better to see a professional regarding your partner’s US visa application and the type of visa you should apply for. Consult your local US embassy or consulate and be guided accordingly.
