Who this guide is for
- U.S. citizen petitioners preparing Form I-129F
- Couples organizing their evidence
Identity and eligibility
- Proof of the petitioner's U.S. citizenship, such as a U.S. birth certificate, naturalization or citizenship certificate, Form FS-240, or a valid U.S. passport
- Proof that any earlier marriages ended, for both of you
- One color passport-style photo of the petitioner and one of the fiancé(e), taken within 30 days of filing
- Legal name-change documents, if either of you uses a different name than on your evidence
Meeting in person
- Photos together
- Travel tickets, boarding passes, and passport stamps
- Hotel receipts or itineraries
Intent to marry and ongoing relationship
- Evidence that you both genuinely intend to marry within 90 days of the fiancé(e)'s admission, such as signed statements from each of you
- Communication history, such as messages and call logs
- Wedding plans, if any
Questions about filling out Form I-129F
How do I answer the question about meeting in person?
The form asks whether you and your fiancé(e) met in person during the two years immediately before filing. If yes, describe the meeting and attach evidence that you were together.
If no, the form asks you to explain why you are requesting an exemption from the in-person meeting requirement and to provide supporting evidence. The instructions describe when an exemption may be considered; USCIS decides whether it applies.
Form section: Part 2. Information About Your Beneficiary, Items 53 and 54 · Edition 01/20/25
What is the international marriage broker question?
It asks whether you met your fiancé(e) through the services of an international marriage broker (IMB). If yes, the form asks for information about the broker.
The instructions define what counts as an international marriage broker. Answer based on how you actually met.
Form section: Part 2. Information About Your Beneficiary, International Marriage Broker Information (Item 55 onward) · Edition 01/20/25
Do I have to answer the criminal history questions if my record was sealed?
Yes. The form says these questions must be answered even if records were sealed or cleared, or if anyone told you that you no longer have a record.
The questions cover protection orders and certain crimes. The instructions explain the certified records to include for a "Yes" answer. A "Yes" answer is a good reason to speak with an immigration attorney before filing.
Form section: Part 3. Other Information, Criminal Information · Edition 01/20/25
Important considerations
- Provide certified English translations for documents in other languages.
- Check the current fee with the USCIS Fee Calculator; MimiDocu's preparation fee is separate.
When to consider legal help
Consider speaking with a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative if your situation involves any of the following:
- Any arrest, criminal charge, or conviction, in any country
- Past or current removal (deportation) proceedings, or a prior removal order
- Unlawful presence, a prior visa overstay, or a past immigration violation
- Questions about whether you need a waiver or qualify for an exception
- A previous fiancé(e) petition filed for someone else
Official USCIS sources
Fees, mailing addresses, form editions, and processing times change. Always confirm them on the official USCIS pages below before you file.
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MimiDocu is an independent document-preparation service. MimiDocu is not a law firm, does not provide legal advice, does not submit applications to USCIS, and is not affiliated with USCIS or the U.S. government.
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