K2 & K4 Visas. For many Thai individuals engaged to or married to US citizens, the K visa category offers a path to reunite with their loved ones in the United States. This article explores the K-2 and K-4 visas, specifically designed for children of K-1 fiancé(e) and K-3 spouse visa holders, respectively.
Understanding K Visas:
- K-1 Visa: Issued to foreign fiancés of US citizens to enter the US for marriage and permanent residency.
- K-2 Visa: Issued to unmarried children under 21 of K-1 visa holders, allowing them to accompany or join their parent in the US.
- K-3 Visa: Issued to the foreign spouse of a US citizen married outside the US, allowing them to enter for permanent residency.
- K-4 Visa: Issued to unmarried children under 21 of K-3 visa holders.
Eligibility for K-2 and K-4 Visas:
- To be eligible for a K-2 visa, the child must be unmarried and under 21 when entering the US.
- The child must be a biological or adopted child of the K-1 visa holder (fiancé(e) of the US citizen).
- Similarly, for a K-4 visa, the child must be unmarried and under 21 when entering the US.
- The child must be a biological or adopted child of the K-3 visa holder (spouse of the US citizen).
Application Process:
- The US citizen fiancé(e) or spouse files the appropriate petition (I-129F for K-1 or I-130 for K-3) with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Once approved, the National Visa Center (NVC) will contact the applicant and child to initiate the visa application process. This involves completing the DS-160 online visa application form and attending a visa interview at the US embassy or consulate in Thailand.
- Required documents include birth certificates, proof of relationship to the US citizen, and medical examination results.
Benefits of K Visas:
- Allow children to accompany or join their parent in the US during the immigration process.
- Enable children to reside in the US legally while attending school.
- Provide a path to permanent residency and eventual US citizenship.
Important Considerations:
- K visas are temporary visas with a validity period tied to the parent's K-1 or K-3 visa.
- The child cannot work on a K visa but may be eligible for a work permit after obtaining permanent residency.
- Consulting an immigration attorney familiar with Thai and US immigration law is highly recommended for navigating the process.
Conclusion
The K-2 and K-4 visas offer a valuable option for Thai children of US citizen fiancés and spouses to reunite with their families in the United States. Understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits is crucial for a successful visa application. By seeking professional guidance and ensuring all requirements are met, Thai families can navigate this path towards a united future in the US.
