What is an R1 Visa?
The R1 Visa allows foreign religious workers to work in the United States. It is available to members of nonprofit religious organizations who have professional roles within their religious community. Examples include religious instructors, counselors, liturgical workers, and more. However, positions like clerks, fundraisers, and maintenance workers do not qualify.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an R1 visa, you must:
- Be a religious minister or worker.
- Have a job offer from a nonprofit religious organization in the U.S.
- Have been a member of the religious denomination for at least two years before applying.
- Work at least part-time (20 hours per week).
Recognized Religious Denominations
Eligible denominations must have:
- Codified discipline, doctrine, and religious rituals.
- Shared ecclesiastical governance and creed.
- Tax-exempt status as recognized by the U.S. government.
Ministers of Religion
Ministers must have written authorization from their religious denomination to perform religious duties. This includes licenses, certificates, or formal letters.
Required Documents
For your R1 visa application, you will need:
- Approved Form I-129.
- Form DS-160 confirmation page.
- A valid passport.
- Fee payment receipts.
- Passport-sized photographs.
- Proof of your status as a religious worker or minister.
Application Process
- Form I-129: Your U.S. employer files Form I-129 with USCIS, providing necessary evidence and paying the application fee.
- USCIS Review: USCIS reviews the application, possibly involving a site visit to verify the organization's status.
- Form DS-160: If I-129 is approved, you complete and submit Form DS-160 online.
- Visa Interview: Schedule and attend an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
If you are already in the U.S. on a different visa, file for a change of status with Form I-539 instead of DS-160.
Application Fees
- Form DS-160: $190
- Biometrics fee (if applicable): $85
- Form I-129: $460 (paid by employer)
- Form I-539: $370 (for change of status)
Processing Time
- Form I-129: Takes about 6 months.
- Premium Processing: Available for an additional $1,500, guaranteeing processing within 15 days.
- Form DS-160: Processing time varies, generally 3-5 weeks.
Visa Validity
The R1 visa is valid for three years and can be extended for an additional two years, totaling five years. After five years, you must leave the U.S. and can reapply after residing outside the U.S. for at least one year.
Dependents
Unmarried children under 21 and your spouse can accompany you on R2 visas. They cannot work in the U.S. but can study. R2 visas are valid for the same duration as the R1 visa.
How Sari Law Firm Can Help
Our immigration lawyers at Sari Law Firm can assist with:Reviewing and strengthening your portfolio of evidence.
- Translating documentation if necessary.
- Liaising with your U.S.-based employer.
- Completing documentation, such as Form I-129, to the highest standard.
For further assistance, contact us at Sari Law Firm.