The R-1 visa allows religious workers and employees of religious organizations to work temporarily in the U.S. The R-1 visa is intended for individuals employed by recognized religious institutions or organizations who wish to perform religious activities or services in the U.S. This visa is suitable for clergy, priests, monks, as well as other employees engaged in religious duties or administrative positions within religious organizations.
To be eligible to apply for the R-1 visa, applicants must meet specific requirements, such as:
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- The applicant’s work must involve religious service or activities directly related to their faith.
- The applicant must have at least two years of experience in their religious activity prior to applying.
- The U.S. organization employing them must be recognized and legally operating according to the rules of the religious community they belong to.
The R-1 visa is typically issued for an initial period of 30 months, with the possibility of renewal for an additional 30 months, up to a total of 5 years. Family members may accompany the visa holder under the R-2 visa for spouses and children under 21 years old, although dependents are not authorized to work in the U.S.
The R-1 visa offers a good opportunity for religious workers and employees of religious organizations to work in the U.S. for a limited time, and in some cases, it can serve as a pathway to permanent residence in the U.S.