Eligibility:

To qualify for an R-1 visa, applicants must meet certain criteria:

1. Religious Occupation: The applicant must be a member of a legitimate religious denomination and be coming to the United States to work in a religious occupation or perform religious duties. This can include positions such as ministers, priests, pastors, rabbis, imams, religious instructors, missionaries, or other religious workers.

2. Employment with a Religious Organization: The applicant must have a bona fide offer of employment from a qualifying religious organization in the United States. The organization must be tax-exempt and able to provide evidence of its religious nature and activities.

3. Two Years of Membership: For most applicants, they must have been a member of the religious organization for at least two years immediately preceding the application for the visa.

4. Temporary Intent: The applicant must intend to enter the United States temporarily to work for the religious organization and engage in religious activities. They should not have the intention of immigrating permanently to the United States.

Requirements and/or Materials:

The USCIS requires various documents and evidence to process the R-1 visa petition. These may include:

• A detailed job description outlining the religious duties and responsibilities to be performed by the applicant in the United States.
• Evidence of the applicant’s qualifications and credentials as a religious worker, such as certificates of ordination, diplomas, or letters of recommendation.
• Proof of the religious organization’s tax-exempt status and evidence of its religious nature and activities.
• Documentation demonstrating the applicant’s membership in the religious organization for at least two years.
• Letters of support from religious leaders or officials endorsing the applicant’s qualifications and suitability for the position.

Validity / Extensions:

The initial validity of an R-1 visa is typically up to 30 months (2.5 years). Extensions of stay may be granted for up to an additional 30 months, with a maximum total stay of five years for R-1 visa holders.

Family Members:

Dependents, including spouses and unmarried children under 21, of R-1 visa holders may accompany them to the United States on R-2 visas. R-2 visa holders are eligible to study in the U.S. but are not permitted to work without obtaining separate work authorization.

Jurisdiction:

The R-1 visa application is processed through USCIS, typically through the religious organization’s petition on behalf of the religious worker. Our firm can assist with preparing and filing the R-1 petition, ensuring compliance with all requirements and regulations.

As each case is unique, it’s important to consult our firm to determine eligibility and receive personalized assistance with the R-1 visa application process.