Blog Post
What Is An R-1 Visa?
5/26/2025
An R-1 non-immigrant Visa is needed for individuals who want to temporarily work in religious facilities in the United States. This Visa helps qualified organizations maintain their educational, humanitarian, and spiritual missions by employing workers outside the country.
This Religious Worker Visa grants qualified beneficiaries an initial admission period of up to 30 months. In this category, you can extend your stay to a maximum of five years.
Although temporary, this Visa can allow you to transition from this nonimmigrant status to the EB-4 or Special Immigrant Religious Workers category for permanent residency. This status is designated for “Special Immigrants,” which includes a diverse group of individuals, including religious workers.
Moreover, if you obtain this religious worker status, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 may apply for the R-2 or dependent Visa. This category allows such family members to accompany you to reside in the United States for a specific period.
With the compass set for navigating your Religious Worker Visa, the next step is to discover what qualifies you as a candidate. Knowing your qualifications is essential for fulfilling your spiritual duties successfully in the United States.
How Do You Qualify For Religious Workers Visa?
To be an official religious worker in the United States, you must meet specific qualifications. First, you must be a member of a recognized faith-based denomination and have been active for at least two years before applying. Your employing organization must also be a non-profit entity in the country with a legitimate tax-exempt status. This ensures that the job offer is rooted in genuine spiritual practice.
Moreover, your role must be a bona fide religious occupation, such as leading worship, conducting devotional instruction, or providing spiritual guidance. You must be consistently involved in the sacred service of your country and continue the same job in the United States. In addition, you should work an average of 20 hours per week.
Although you may believe you meet these qualifications, it is advisable to have a skilled immigration attorney guide you. Beyond providing insights on Visa eligibility, they can assist you throughout the application process.
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