The R-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa designed for foreign nationals wishing to enter the United States temporarily for religious work. This visa category is tailored for individuals who work in religious occupations, such as ministers, missionaries, and other religious roles within non-profit religious organizations. Applicants can stay for an initial period of up to 30 months, which can be extended for another 30 months, totaling five years. After completing the five-year period, the individual must leave the U.S. and remain outside the country for one year before reapplying.
Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for the R-1 visa, applicants must meet several conditions:
- The applicant must have been a member of a religious denomination for at least two years before applying.
- The applicant must intend to work in a religious occupation or vocation for a legitimate, non-profit religious organization.
- The applicant must plan to leave the U.S. at the end of their authorized stay, unless the situation provides otherwise.
- The individual must work at least 20 hours per week in their religious role.
The application process begins with the religious organization filing a Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker (Form I-129) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The organization must prove that it is a bona fide religious entity, and USCIS conducts site visits to confirm the organization’s legitimacy.
The R-1 visa provides an opportunity for individuals to serve in religious capacities across the U.S., contributing to the community and fulfilling their spiritual duties. It’s essential for both the applicant and the petitioning organization to ensure they meet all requirements to ensure smooth processing.
