R-1 Religious Workers

R-1 visas are available for foreign nationals coming to the U.S. temporarily to be employed as a minister or in another religious vocation or occupation for at least 20 hours per week by qualifying religious organizations.  Qualifying religious organizations include non-profit religious organizations in the United States and organizations that are affiliated with a religious denomination which has authorized the organization to use its group tax exemption.  Foreign nationals granted R-1 nonimmigrant status cannot work in any other capacity other than as religious workers.  To qualify for R-1 nonimmigrant status, a foreign national must have been a member of a religious denomination having a bona fide non-profit religious organization in the United States for at least 2 years prior to the filing of the petition for R-1 status. 

If you would like to consult with an experienced HSPRD attorney about obtaining R-1 religious worker status, please contact our Firm at ((312) 239-7675 or info@chicagovisalawyers.com