The R-1 Visa allows ministers and religious workers to come to the United States temporarily to work for a bona fide nonprofit religious organization. This visa is ideal for those engaging in religious duties such as worship leadership, instruction, missionary work, or performing other functions directly related to their religious denomination.
✅ Ministers of religion
✅ Professional religious workers (such as missionaries, instructors, counselors, cantors, etc.)
✅ Members of religious vocations or occupations
✅ Sponsored by a U.S.-based nonprofit religious organization
✔️ Work in the U.S. performing religious duties
✔️ No annual cap or lottery
✔️ Bring spouse and children to the U.S.
✔️ Option to apply for permanent residency later (for eligible applicants)
✔️ Opportunity for international faith-based collaboration
To qualify, applicants must:
✅ Have been a member of the religious denomination for at least 2 years prior to applying
✅ Be offered a position by a nonprofit religious organization in the U.S.
✅ Intend to work at least 20 hours per week in religious duties
✅ Perform duties consistent with their denomination’s religious practices
✅ Provide documentation proving the nonprofit status of the U.S. organization
Initial stay up to 30 months
Extension possible up to a maximum total stay of 5 years
Valid passport
DS-160 confirmation page
Form I-129 approval notice (Form I-797)
Documentation of membership in the religious denomination
Proof of nonprofit status of U.S. religious organization
Job offer letter from the U.S. organization
Visa application fee receipt
R-1 Visa holders can bring:
Spouse and unmarried children under 21 on R-2 dependent visas
R-2 dependents may study in the U.S. but cannot work
✅ Experienced team for R-1 Visa cases
✅ Assistance preparing strong documentation
✅ Guidance for U.S. religious organizations and applicants
✅ Support through the entire process, including site visit preparation
✅ Help with follow-up for smooth and timely approval
