Before the forms, the fees, and the interview, there’s one question that trips people up: what do I actually need to gather, and when?

This free checklist lays it out in order — the I-129F petition packet (filed with USCIS), the NVC and consulate interview documents, and the steps after the visa is issued. Each phase is itemized so you can check things off as you collect them.

Current for 2026, including:

• The expanded social media vetting for K visas (March 2026) — five-year handle disclosure on the DS-160, profiles set public
• The end of interview waivers (September 2025) — nearly every K-1 applicant now interviews in person, with longer appointment waits

From David Swan — a former immigration officer who went through the K-1 process himself with his Peruvian wife. I’ve seen this from both sides.

Want the step-by-step for every item on this list? The checklist tells you what to gather. My ebook US Spouse Immigration Made Easy ($39) walks you through how — plain-language steps for each document, the interview, and what to do after approval.