R-1 Visa: Religious Workers (I-129)

Temporary religious worker (R-1) visas are for persons who want to work temporarily in the United States in religious capacities.

An R-1 nonimmigrant is a noncitizen who is temporarily coming to the United States to work at least part-time (averaging a minimum of 20 hours per week) as a minister or in a religious role. This employment must be with one of the following:

• A non-profit religious organization in the United States
• A religious organization authorized by a group tax exemption holder to utilize its group tax exemption
• A non-profit organization affiliated with a religious denomination in the United States

To qualify, you must have been a member of a religious denomination that operates a legitimate non-profit religious organization in the U.S. for at least two years immediately prior to filing the petition.

The Process

The individual must submit Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, on behalf of a noncitizen seeking to enter the United States as a nonimmigrant minister or religious worker in a religious vocation.

The following documentation may need to be included with your petition:

• A letter of support
• A job description and duty chart that outlines the percentage of time allocated to specific responsibilities
• A current and valid determination letter from the IRS confirming the organization’s tax-exempt status
• Evidence of compensation
• Self-support will be considered only for certain nonimmigrant missionaries
• Documentation demonstrating funding for compensation, such as historical records, budgets, etc., showing how the position will be funded
• Materials that verify the religious nature and purpose of the organization, which may include books, brochures, flyers, and other religious publications.

Period of Stay

R-1 status can be granted for an initial admission period of up to 30 months, with the possibility of extending it for an additional 30 months. The total duration of stay in the U.S. under R-1 classification cannot exceed five years (60 months).

Family Members

An R-1 religious worker’s spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 may be eligible for R-2 classification. An R-2 dependent is not authorized to work based on this visa classification.

Conclusion

The R-1 visa is an ideal option for individuals looking to engage in religious vocations or occupations. This visa is particularly beneficial for religious workers who might not meet the requirements for other visa categories. It allows them to pursue their ministry or religious duties in the United States, providing a pathway to contribute to their faith communities.

Additionally, the R-1 visa supports a variety of roles within religious organizations, making it a versatile choice for many applicants. Whether working as a minister, priest, or in other religious capacities, individuals can fulfill their spiritual missions while also gaining valuable experience in their fields. This visa not only facilitates their work but also strengthens the cultural and religious fabric of the communities they serve.

Our Law Firm offers expert guidance through the complex and ever-changing immigration laws, ensuring you understand the requirements. Our team helps ensure your application is accurate and complete, minimizing the risk of delays or denials. They can assess your eligibility and advise on necessary qualifications, as well as assist in gathering essential documentation.