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R-1 Visa (Religious Worker Visa)
The R-1 Visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to come to the United States to work temporarily in religious capacities. It is specifically designed for individuals who are ministers, religious workers, or employees of recognized religious organizations.
What is an R-1 Visa?
The R-1 Visa is intended for foreign nationals who are:
Ministers, priests, rabbis, or other religious leaders.
Religious workers engaged in professional religious activities, such as teaching, counseling, or administrative roles within a religious organization.
Key features of the R-1 Visa include:
Initial validity of up to 30 months, extendable to a maximum of 5 years.
Allows eligible spouse and unmarried children under 21 to accompany the visa holder on R-2 dependent visas.
Requires sponsorship by a U.S. religious organization.
Enables temporary work and participation in religious activities in the U.S.
Why Choose an R-1 Visa?
Gain legal work authorization in the U.S. for religious work.
Spouses and children can accompany the visa holder on R-2 dependent visas.
Opportunity to serve in religious, teaching, or administrative roles within U.S. religious organizations.
Ideal for religious professionals seeking international experience and contribution.
Can lead to eligibility for permanent residency (Green Card) for religious workers.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an R-1 Visa:
Must be a member of a recognized religious denomination for at least 2 years prior to applying.
Must have a job offer from a U.S. religious organization.
Must intend to work full-time in a religious occupation or role.
Must meet health, security, and admissibility standards.
Examples of evidence for eligibility:
Letters from religious denomination verifying membership and good standing.
Employment contract or offer from a U.S. religious organization.
Documentation of religious work experience.
Letters of recommendation from religious leaders or supervisors.
R-1 Visa Process
Petition Filing (Form I-129): U.S. religious organization files Form I-129 with USCIS, including supporting documentation for the religious worker role.
USCIS Approval: Petition is reviewed and approved.
Visa Application & Interview: Apply for R-1 visa at the U.S. consulate and attend an interview.
Entry to the U.S.: Upon approval, enter the U.S. to begin work in a religious role.
Extensions & Status Maintenance: R-1 status can be extended up to 5 years in total.
Documents Required
Valid passport.
Form I-129 petition and USCIS approval notice.
Employment contract or letter from U.S. religious organization.
Proof of membership and standing in the religious denomination.
Documentation of prior religious work experience.
Resume or CV detailing religious roles and achievements.
Birth and marriage certificates for dependents (R-2 visa applicants).
Additional supporting documents as requested by USCIS or consulate.
Timeline & Processing Time
USCIS Petition (Form I-129) Processing: 2–6 months (premium processing available: 15 calendar days).
Visa Application & Consular Interview: 2–4 weeks.
Overall Timeline: Typically 2–6 months, depending on USCIS processing and consular schedules.
R-1 vs. Other Work Visas
H-1B: Specialty occupations requiring higher education; employer-sponsored.
O-1: Extraordinary ability in arts, sciences, business, or athletics.
R-1: Religious workers, ministers, or employees of recognized religious organizations.
How We Help
We provide full support for R-1 Visa applicants:
Guidance on eligibility for religious workers and ministers.
Assistance with Form I-129 petition preparation and submission.
Support in gathering contracts, letters of recommendation, and documentation.
Guidance for consular interviews and dependent R-2 visas.
Step-by-step support throughout the application and extension process.
Why Choose Us for R-1 Visa Assistance?
Expertise in religious worker visa applications.
Proven success in R-1 approvals for ministers and religious workers.
Assistance with documentation, petition filing, and interview preparation.
Personalized guidance for applicants and their families.
Trusted partner for religious professionals seeking U.S. opportunities.