R-1 Religious Worker Visa
Serving faith communities — ministers and religious workers, with full site-visit readiness.
Overview
The R-1 is for individuals working at least 20 hours weekly in a religious vocation or occupation for a qualifying nonprofit religious organization. The worker must have been a member of the denomination for at least two years before filing. Maximum stay is five years. USCIS conducts on-site inspections — we prepare your organization before filing.
Who May Qualify
- Two years of denomination membership before filing
- A qualifying nonprofit religious organization as petitioner
- Work as a minister or in a religious vocation/occupation, 20+ hours weekly
- Compensated work — volunteers do not qualify
How We Help
- R-1 petitions with organizational, tax-exemption, and compensation evidence
- Site-visit preparation and compliance audits
- Extensions and EB-4 religious worker green cards
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I volunteer on an R-1?
No — R-1 workers must be compensated, which can include salary or supported room and board.
How long can I stay?
Up to 5 years: 30-month initial period plus one 30-month extension.
This page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this page. Immigration law is complex and fact-specific — please consult a qualified immigration attorney about your individual situation.