What is required for a K-1 Visa to maintain its validity?

For a K-1 visa to maintain its validity, it is essential that marriage occurs within 90 days of the visa holder's entry into the United States. This specific requirement is designed to ensure that the purpose of the K-1 visa, which is to facilitate the marriage of a foreign national to a U.S. citizen, is fulfilled in a timely manner. If the couple does not marry within this 90-day period, the K-1 visa becomes invalid, and the visa holder must leave the U.S.

The other requirements listed are not applicable for maintaining the K-1 visa's validity. For example, while it is mandatory for the K-1 visa applicant to be the fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen, the timing of the marriage is of utmost importance after entry. Similarly, the application for the K-1 visa must be submitted prior to entry into the U.S., but this is a procedural requirement rather than one that affects the visa's validity once granted. Approval of the I-130 petition is relevant for other visa categories but is not a condition for the K-1 visa itself. Hence, the critical factor is the marriage occurring within the specified 90-day window.