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  4. R-1 Visa, Temporary Nonimmigrant Religious Workers

R-1 Visa, Temporary Nonimmigrant Religious Workers

Pastor preaching a a church

The R-1 visa classification allows you to come to the United States temporarily to be employed at least part time by a bona fide nonprofit religious organization in the United States to work solely as a minister, in a religious vocation, or in a religious occupation.

Eligibility

You may be eligible to be classified as an R-1 nonimmigrant if you:

  • Will be employed by a nonprofit religious organization in the United States (or a nonprofit organization which is affiliated with a religious organization in the United States);
  • Have been a member of a religious denomination having a bona fide nonprofit religious organization in the United States for at least two years immediately before filing the petition;
  • Will work in the United States in at least a part-time position (an average of at least 20 hours per week);
  • Are a minister or will be working in a religious vocation or occupation;
  • Will work for the employer who files the petition to classify you as a R-1 nonimmigrant; and
  • Will not work in any other capacity except as a religious worker.

More information on this classification is available on our R-1 Nonimmigrant page.

Read our policy on R-1 adjudications in Volume 2, Part O, of the USCIS Policy Manual.

How to File

Your petitioning entity must:

  • Read the instructions for Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker;
  • Complete and sign your Form I-129;
  • Pay the filing fee, if applicable; and
  • Provide all required evidence and supporting documentation.

Want status updates about your case? Learn how to create a USCIS online account to stay informed.

After You File

Once we receive your Form I-129, you will receive a:  

  • Receipt notice confirming we received your petition;
  • Site visit at the petitioner’s headquarters location, if necessary
  • Notice to appear for an interview, if required; and
  • Notice of our decision.

Forms and Fees

  • Form I-129
  • Find the fee information on Our Fee Schedule page. 
Last Reviewed/Updated:
12/01/2020
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