Processing times
What is the I-129F processing time at the California Service Center?
Updated · Not legal advice
USCIS publishes the current I-129F processing time for each service center on its official processing times tool; choose Form I-129F, the K-1/K-2 category and the service center on your receipt notice (for example California Service Center, receipt numbers starting with WAC). We do not repeat the number here because it changes regularly.
| Stage | Agency | Track it with |
|---|---|---|
| I-129F petition | USCIS | Receipt number in Case Status Online |
| Petition sent to NVC | State Department (NVC) | NVC case number |
| K-1 visa interview | U.S. embassy or consulate | CEAC Visa Status Check |
| Enter U.S., marry within 90 days, file I-485 | USCIS | New receipt numbers |
After I-129F approval
USCIS sends the approved petition to the National Visa Center, which creates a case and forwards it to the embassy or consulate where your fiancé(e) will interview. The embassy then contacts the beneficiary with instructions. Timing at each step varies by post.
Quick answers
- How do I know when my I-129F moves to NVC?
- Your USCIS status shows the approval; NVC then assigns a case number. You can check the NVC side in CEAC.
- How long after I-129F approval does the embassy contact you?
- It varies by embassy or consulate. Check the post's own website for its current process.
- Is there a K-1 visa status tracker app?
- Track the I-129F receipt number here for USCIS changes; the consular part is in CEAC.
What to do next
Track your receipt number and get an email the day the status changes.
Track my case freeSources
- USCIS: Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)
- USCIS: Check Case Processing Times
- U.S. Department of State: CEAC Visa Status Check
Checked: November 12, 2026