R1 VISA – DLG

R-1 Visa Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the R-1 visa?

The R-1 visa is for foreign nationals who are religious workers, such as ministers, priests, rabbis, and religious missionaries, and who wish to come to the U.S. to work in a religious capacity or engage in religious activities for a U.S.-based religious organization.

Who is eligible for an R-1 visa?

To be eligible for an R-1 visa, you must meet the following criteria:

Be a member of a legitimate religious denomination.

Have a job offer from a U.S. religious organization.

Be coming to the U.S. to work in a religious capacity.

How long can I stay in the U.S. on an R-1 visa?

R-1 visa holders are initially granted a period of stay of up to 30 months. Extensions may be possible, with a maximum total stay of 5 years.

Can my family accompany me on an R-1 visa?

Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 may accompany you on R-2 visas. However, R-2 visa holders are not allowed to work in the U.S.

Can I apply for a green card (permanent residency) while on an R-1 visa?

While it is possible to apply for a green card while on an R-1 visa, you must meet specific eligibility criteria and go through the appropriate immigration processes, which may or may not be related to your religious worker status.

Can I change employers while on an R-1 visa?

The petitioner must notify USCIS within 14 days of any change in the nonimmigrant religious worker’s employment. For the religious worker to change employers, the new petitioner must file a new Form I-129, attestation, and supporting evidence.

How do I apply for an R-1 visa?

The process typically involves:

The U.S. religious organization files an R-1 petition (Form I-129) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

USCIS reviews the petition, and if approved, you can apply for an R-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad (if you are not already in the U.S.).

Is there a numerical cap on the number of R-1 visas issued each year?

There is no annual numerical cap on the number of R-1 visas issued, unlike some other visa categories.

Can I include my family members in my R-1 visa application?

Family members (spouse and children) cannot be included in the same R-1 petition. They must apply for R-2 visas.

Can I travel outside the U.S. while on an R-1 visa?

Yes, you can travel outside the U.S. and re-enter while on an R-1 visa, provided you have a valid R-1 visa stamp in your passport and a valid R-1 approval notice.

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I had a great experience working with Leyla and team for my immigration petitions. The immigration process can be stressful at times but I always felt I am in good hands seeing the level of rigor and diligence that the DLG group put into my application process. They were on top of communications and always made themselves available to answer my Qs. The application process went smoothly and their expert advice and guidance throughout made all the difference. I highly recommend working with DLG, Leyla and team are great!!