Overview
The R-1 nonimmigrant visa allows foreign nationals to enter the United States temporarily to work in a religious capacity for a bona fide nonprofit religious organization. The R-1 program enables religious denominations and organizations to bring ministers, religious professionals, and individuals working in a religious vocation or occupation to the United States.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must have been a member of a religious denomination for at least two years immediately preceding the application
- Must be coming to the U.S. to work in a religious occupation, religious vocation, or as a minister
- Must work for a bona fide nonprofit religious organization (or an organization affiliated with a religious denomination)
- The position must be at least part-time (minimum 20 hours per week)
Categories of Religious Workers
Ministers: Individuals authorized by a religious denomination to conduct religious worship and perform other duties usually performed by members of the clergy.
Religious Professionals: Individuals working in a religious profession that requires a U.S. bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent (e.g., religious educators, liturgical workers, counselors).
Religious Vocation/Occupation: Individuals working in a religious vocation (such as nuns, monks, and religious brothers or sisters) or a traditional religious function.
R-1 Duration
The R-1 visa is initially granted for up to 30 months and may be extended for a total maximum stay of five years. After reaching the five-year maximum, the individual must reside outside the U.S. for one year before being readmitted in R-1 status.
EB-4 Special Immigrant Religious Worker
Religious workers in the U.S. on R-1 status (or otherwise qualifying) may be eligible for permanent residency through the EB-4 Special Immigrant Religious Worker category. This requires the employer to file Form I-360 and demonstrate that the worker has been employed in a religious occupation or vocation for at least two years.
USCIS Site Visits
Since 2009, USCIS has conducted unannounced site visits to verify that religious organizations are bona fide and that R-1 workers are performing the duties described in their petitions. Organizations should be prepared for these inspections.