Can You Work on a Fiancé Visa​? 2025 Update

If you’re bringing your fiancé to the US on a K1 visa, one of the first questions that comes up is: Can my fiancé work on a K1 visa?

The answer is yes, but it’s not automatic. Your fiancé must first get a work permit, also called an EAD (Employment Authorization Document). Without it, working in the US is not allowed.

Can My Fiancé Work on a K1 Visa Right Away?

No, as mentioned, working in the US with a K1 fiancé visa is not simply possible. Your fiancé first needs to apply for and receive a work permit from USCIS.

This work permit is called an EAD (Form I-765). Without it, your fiancé isn’t allowed to get a job, even part-time. So your fiancé can work on a K1 visa during the 90-day window, but only after getting the EAD.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Work Permit?

It usually takes 2 to 3 months to get a work permit after applying. But here’s the tricky part: The K1 visa is only valid for 90 days.

As you know the couple must marry within 90 days. So even if your fiancé applies right after arriving, the EAD might not arrive in time. And if it comes late, it may only be valid for a few weeks. Because of this, many people choose to wait until after marriage to apply for work authorization.

Why Is It Risky to Work Without a Work Permit?

Waiting months to work is frustrating. But working without an EAD is a bad idea. If your fiancé works without a valid work permit:

• They could be deported.
• They might get banned from the US for years.
• Their green card could be denied.
• You and the employer could face fines.

So even if someone offers a cash job, or says “nobody checks,” it’s not worth the risk. The answer to can my fiancé work on a K1 visa without a permit is a hard no.

How to Apply for a Work Permit on a K1 Visa?

Getting a work permit while on a K-1 fiancé visa has several steps:

1. Fill out Form I-765 (choose category (a)(6) for K1 visa holders).
2. Add copies of your passport photo page, K1 visa, I-94 arrival record, two passport-sized photos, and any previous EADs (if any).
3. Pay the fees of $410 + $85 for biometrics.
4. Mail everything to the USCIS lockbox.
5. Wait for approval (about 2 to 3 months).

Once approved, the EAD card is mailed. Your fiancé can legally work only after receiving that card.

Can My Fiancé Work on a K1 Visa After Marriage?

Once you’re married, your fiancé can apply for a green card through a process called adjustment of status. At the same time, they can apply for a new work permit based on that pending green card.

This second EAD usually takes 2 to 3 months to process too, but the big difference is this one is valid for 1 to 2 years, much longer than the one linked to the US family visa (K1 visa).

So, if you’re asking, can my fiancé work on a K1 visa? Yes, but if you wait until after marriage to apply for a work permit, you get a better timeline and longer benefits.

Apply for EAD On K1 Visa Vs. After Marriage

How to Apply for a Work Permit While Waiting for a Green Card?

After your wedding, here are the key forms your fiancé (your spouse, to be more accurate) should file:

• Form I-485 – Green card application
• Form I-765 – Work permit application (category (c)(9))
• Form I-131 – Travel document (optional)
• Form I-693 – Medical exam results
• Form I-864 – Affidavit of support (by the US citizen)

Your spouse needs to include:

• A copy of your marriage certificate
• A copy of your passport
• A copy of your K1 visa page
• Your I-94 arrival record
• Two recent passport photos
• Any past EAD cards if you’ve had one before
• The correct filing fees (you can check the latest fee on the USCIS website)

You need to put all your forms, documents, and fees in one envelope and send it to the USCIS lockbox address listed for Form I-485. Once USCIS gets your application, they’ll send you receipt notices by mail. These notices confirm they received your forms and started processing your case. You’ll get a receipt for each form, including the I-765 (your work permit). You can use the receipt number to track your case online.

In a few weeks, USCIS will send you a notice for biometrics. This is done at a nearby USCIS office. Don’t miss this appointment. It’s required for your work permit and green card to move forward.

USCIS usually takes 2 to 3 months to approve the work permit. If approved, they’ll mail you a physical EAD card. Once you get the card, you can start working legally in the US.

Final Answer: Can My Fiancé Work on a K1 Visa?

Yes, but only after getting a work permit. Applying right after arrival is allowed, but the EAD may expire fast. Most couples wait until after marriage to apply, which gives them more time and fewer headaches.

So, if you still need more advice and information, Visa Library is here to guide you with our FREE expert visa consultation.

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