R-1 Religious Workers Visa
At Americana Pacific Law Group, we assist religious workers and organizations with the legal pathways to carry out their spiritual callings in the United States. The R-1 visa is designed for ministers and religious workers who want to work temporarily for a qualified religious organization in the U.S.
What Is the R-1 Visa?
The R-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa for foreign nationals who are coming to the U.S. temporarily to work in a religious capacity. This includes:
Ordained ministers or clergy
Religious instructors or missionaries
Cantors, monks, nuns, and religious professionals
Support staff in religious occupations
The visa is issued to individuals affiliated with a recognized nonprofit religious denomination in the U.S.
Who Is Eligible for an R-1 Visa?
You may qualify for an R-1 visa if:
You’ve been a member of a religious denomination for at least two years before applying
You’re coming to the U.S. to work at least 20 hours per week in a religious role
You’re sponsored by a nonprofit religious organization or affiliate
Your role involves ministerial duties or religious vocation
Key Requirements
A U.S. religious organization must file Form I-129 on your behalf
The sponsoring organization must be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
Evidence of your membership and religious training
Site visits may be conducted by USCIS to verify legitimacy