K-1 Visa Timeline
Short answer
Stage 1 — I-129F
The U.S. citizen petitioner files Form I-129F with USCIS.
Stage 2 — USCIS Decision
If USCIS approves the petition, it moves into Department of State processing.
Stage 3 — NVC
NVC assigns a case number and routes the case to the appropriate processing post.
Stage 4 — Embassy/Consulate Preparation
The applicant follows post-specific K-1 instructions, including DS-160 and document preparation.
Stage 5 — Interview Appointment
The scheduling procedure varies by post. At supported AIS posts where the applicant must look for dates, the K-1 Visa Appointment Monitor can monitor appointment availability.
Stage 6 — Medical
The K-1 applicant must complete the required medical examination with an authorized panel physician according to post instructions.
Stage 7 — Interview
The consular officer reviews eligibility, required documents, financial support, and relationship evidence.
Stage 8 — Visa / U.S. Entry
If the visa is issued, the K-1 holder travels to the United States and must marry the U.S. citizen petitioner within 90 days of entry.
Stage 9 — Adjustment of Status
After marriage, the K-1 entrant generally applies for adjustment of status to permanent residence.
When Does Appointment Monitoring Matter?
Usually at Stage 5, when your post says you are eligible to schedule and the problem becomes appointment availability.
USCIS — K-1 process summary
U.S. Department of State — Nonimmigrant visa for a fiancé(e) (K-1)