Religious Visas

If you are a religious worker seeking to come to the United States to serve in a religious capacity, you may qualify for a Religious Worker Visa (R-1). This visa is designed for individuals who are members of a religious denomination with a bona fide nonprofit religious organization in the U.S. and who intend to work in a religious vocation or occupation.

To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:

  1. Membership and Experience:

    • You must have been a member of the religious denomination for at least two years before the petition is filed.

    • You must have been continuously engaged in the religious vocation or occupation you intend to perform in the U.S. during that time.

  2. Job Offer:

    • You must have a job offer from a qualified nonprofit religious organization in the United States.

  3. Nonprofit Religious Organization:

    • The organization you will work for must be a bona fide nonprofit religious organization in the U.S.

  4. Temporary Stay:

    • The R-1 visa is initially granted for up to 30 months and can be extended for an additional 30 months, with a maximum stay of 5 years.

At Attorney Sheila Rivera, we assist religious workers and organizations in preparing and filing the necessary petitions, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements. Whether you are a minister, missionary, or other religious worker, we are here to help you navigate the process and achieve your goals of serving in the United States.

General Case Process

1

Initial Consultation

2

Document Collection and Analysis

3

Preparation and Submission of the Application

4

Follow-Up and Legal Representation

5

Case Resolution and Closure