The R-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa designed for religious workers coming to the United States temporarily to work in a religious capacity for a bona fide nonprofit religious organization.
It is intended for ministers, religious professionals, and workers in a religious vocation or occupation.
✅ Who Can Apply for an R-1 Visa?
To qualify for an R-1 visa, applicants must:
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Be a member of a religious denomination that has a bona fide nonprofit religious organization in the U.S.
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Have been a member of that denomination for at least two years prior to the application.
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Be entering the U.S. to work at least part-time (20 hours/week) as a minister, in a religious occupation, or in a religious vocation.
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Be employed by a qualified religious organization or its affiliate.
📝 Application Process
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The U.S. religious organization must file Form I-129 with USCIS.
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USCIS may conduct a site visit to verify the organization’s legitimacy.
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Once approved, the applicant applies for an R-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
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Upon entry, the R-1 worker may stay initially for up to 30 months, with a possible extension for a total of 5 years.
📌 Key Features of the R-1 Visa
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Dual intent is not recognized—R-1 visa holders cannot apply for a green card without a clear change of intent.
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Spouses and children may apply for R-2 visas but cannot work in the U.S.
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R-1 workers may travel in and out of the U.S. while the visa is valid.
🟢 Transitioning to a Green Card
Some R-1 workers may be eligible to transition to permanent residency (green card) through:
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Special Immigrant Religious Worker (EB-4) category, if continuing in a full-time religious role with a qualifying employer.
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Filing Form I-360 as a special immigrant religious worker.
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Applying for adjustment of status once a visa number becomes available.
📞 Need help navigating the R-1 visa or transitioning to a green card? Borderless Lawyers offers specialized support to religious organizations and individuals to ensure a smooth immigration process.