Temporary Religious Workers

• Both members of the clergy and non-members of the clergy who have had membership in a religious organization continuously for the past two years.
• You must have a job offer to work with a U.S. affiliate.
• You must carry on the vocation of a minister of the Religious denomination.
• (or) You must work in a professional capacity in a Religious vocation or occupation or organization within that denomination.
• (or) You must work in a Religious vocation or occupation for an organization within the denomination or for a bona fide organization which is affiliated with the Religious Denomination.

Bona fide religious organizations must have tax exempt status as an organization described in section 501 C of the Internal revenue code of 1986.

Accompanying relatives of R-1 visa holders can get R-2 visas which allow them to stay in the United States, but not work. However the R-2 visa allows studying in the US.

Note: Certain Religious Activities may be undertaken on a B-1 Visa, these include: Missionary Work, Evangelical Tour, Preaching (if you are not paid) and Voluntary Service Program.

There are 2 general steps in the application process for an (R-1) visa. The application procedures may be carried out either within the U.S. at a USCIS office, or abroad at the U.S. consulate of your country of residence.

• Your employer will file your Petition (I-129 and R Supplement) with the appropriate USCIS regional service center at least 45 days and no more than six months before the employment is to begin.
• If the Petition is approved, you will now file an Application for an R visa including several optional forms, "DS" . R visas are generally given at a U.S. consulate in your home country. If you apply in the United States, you will receive an R status, but not a visa which means if you leave the United States temporarily, you will need to reapply for an R visa.

• Get the answers you need with our Self-Help US immigration Kit.
• Read more information on eligibility requirements.