How to Get a Free Spousal Visa to the USA for Foreigners in 2025

Getting married shouldn’t break the bank, learn how foreigners can apply for a spousal visa to the U.S. without paying fees.

Getting married to a U.S. citizen or green card holder opens the door to living together in the United States. But for many foreigners, the cost of a spousal visa can feel overwhelming. Between application fees, medical exams, and document processing, the price can go well above $1,200. However, in 2025, there are legal ways to apply for a U.S. spousal visa without paying the standard application fees—and this article walks you through the most practical and up-to-date options.

Whether you’re applying from Nigeria, India, the Philippines, or any other country, this guide breaks it all down simply—covering trends, visa types, and how to request a fee waiver that really works.

What is a U.S. Spousal Visa?

A spousal visa allows the legally married spouse of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (green card holder) to come to the United States to live permanently. There are two major types:

1. IR-1/CR-1 Immigrant Visa (for spouses of U.S. citizens)

2. K-3 Nonimmigrant Visa (temporary visa for the spouse of a U.S. citizen, later adjusted to permanent residency)

IR-1 vs. CR-1

• IR-1 (Immediate Relative) is issued to those married for more than 2 years.

• CR-1 (Conditional Resident) is for marriages under 2 years.

Both grant green cards, but the K-3 visa allows you to enter the U.S. sooner while waiting for immigrant visa approval. However, K-3 is less common now, as many petitions are processed before the K-3 is approved.

Can You Really Get a U.S. Spousal Visa for Free?

Yes, but only if you meet specific criteria that qualify you for a fee waiver or reduced cost application. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers fee waivers for certain forms, particularly for low-income applicants.

Let’s walk through how to do this in 2025.

Related Post: Canada Spousal Sponsorship

Who Qualifies for a Spousal Visa Fee Waiver in 2025?

In 2025, you can request a fee waiver for most USCIS forms related to family-based immigration if you meet one of the following:

1. You Receive a Means-Tested Public Benefit

This includes:

• Medicaid (in states where noncitizens qualify)

• SNAP (food stamps)

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

2. Your Household Income is Below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines

This depends on your household size. For example, a household of 2 must earn below approximately $30,000/year.

3. You’re Facing Financial Hardship

If you are experiencing job loss, debt, medical bills, or refugee conditions, you can apply for a waiver by showing evidence like:

• Medical records

• Bank statements

• Layoff letters

What Forms Can Be Waived?

The following key forms for spousal visas can qualify for a waiver:

• Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) — $535

• Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) — $1,140

• Form I-765 (Work Authorization) — $260

• Form I-131 (Advance Parole) — $630

• Form I-601 (Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility)

If you’re applying for a green card from within the U.S., you can file for multiple fee waivers.

How to Apply for a Fee Waiver in 2025

Step 1: Complete Form I-912

This is the official Request for Fee Waiver form from USCIS.

• You must explain why you’re requesting the waiver.

• You’ll need to attach proof (income documents, benefit letters, hardship statements).

• It must be submitted along with your I-130 or I-485.

Step 2: Attach Supporting Documents

• Tax returns

• Benefit approval letters

• Affidavit of support from your spouse

• Pay stubs or employment letters

Step 3: Mail to the Correct USCIS Address

Do not pay the fee. If the waiver is denied, they’ll return your application and explain why.

Spousal Visa Requirements: 2025 Checklist

Even if you apply for free, you must still meet the requirements:

1. Proof of Legal Marriage
   Submit a marriage certificate, photos, joint bank accounts, or lease agreements.

2. U.S. Spouse Must File I-130
   This petition proves your marriage is real and not fraudulent.

3. Medical Exam (Form I-693)
   A civil surgeon must complete this. This fee is often not waivable, but clinics in certain cities offer discounted services.

4. Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
   Your spouse must show they can financially support you, even if you apply for a fee waiver.

5. Clean Background
   You’ll need police certificates or background checks for interviews.

2025 Trending Questions from Nigerian Applicants

1. Can I apply for a spousal visa from Nigeria and get it for free?

Yes, but only if you qualify for a hardship-based fee waiver. Since IR-1/CR-1 applications outside the U.S. (like from Lagos) are processed via the National Visa Center (NVC), you must request the fee waiver at the USCIS stage before the petition reaches the embassy.

2. Can I get a spousal visa if I don’t have money for the medical exam?

Some medical centers offer discounted exams for immigrants, especially through NGOs or local clinics. But the U.S. government does not cover medical exam fees. You’ll need to prepare for that cost separately.

3. Is the K-3 visa faster than IR-1 or CR-1?

Not always. In 2025, USCIS continues to process many immigrant visa petitions before a K-3 is even issued, which means the K-3 becomes unnecessary. Still, some Nigerians apply for both, just in case.

4. What if I’m undocumented in the U.S. and married to a citizen—can I apply for free?

Yes. If you entered the U.S. legally (even on a visitor visa) and overstayed, you can still apply for a green card through marriage—and request a fee waiver. You’ll need strong proof of hardship and a clean criminal record.

Current Timeline and Wait Times (2025)

• I-130 Processing: 6–10 months (faster for citizens than green card holders)

• National Visa Center: 2–4 months after USCIS approval

• Visa Interview (in Lagos, Abuja, or other embassies): 2–5 months wait

• K-3 Processing: Often overlaps or becomes unnecessary

Total: 12–16 months on average from application to green card delivery.

Tips to Improve Your Chances

• File early to avoid delays.

• Submit complete documents with clear translations if needed.

• Include a personal letter with your fee waiver request.

• Ask a legal aid group or immigration nonprofit to review your documents.

Where to Get Help

If you can’t afford a lawyer, reach out to:

• Catholic Charities

• HIAS

• Legal Aid Foundation

• American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) Pro Bono Services

Summary

While U.S. spousal visas are not automatically free, many foreigners can apply without paying the standard fees if they qualify for a fee waiver through USCIS. In 2025, the process is clear, digital, and guided by income-based criteria. Whether you’re applying from Nigeria or already in the U.S., you have options—especially if you’re legally married to a U.S. citizen or green card holder.

Marriage is a big step. Paying for love shouldn’t be. With the right documentation, honesty, and support, a free path to living together in the U.S. is possible.