R1 Visa - Religious

NONIMMIGRANT WORK & STUDY VISAS:

R-1 Religious Visa: How Versfeld & Hugo LLC Can Assist Religious Workers

The R-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa designed for religious workers who wish to enter the United States temporarily to perform religious work. At Versfeld & Hugo LLC, our experienced immigration attorneys provide dedicated support to religious workers and their families seeking to apply for R-1 and R-2 visas. If you or a loved one is considering an R-1 visa, we are here to guide you through the application process and help you achieve your goals in the U.S. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

What is an R-1 Visa?

The R-1 visa allows qualifying religious workers to live and work in the United States on a part-time (20 hours or more) or full-time basis. Eligible applicants include monks, nuns, missionaries, religious brothers and sisters, and other individuals who have a significant role in their religious denomination. This visa is intended for those who are employed by a nonprofit religious organization or an affiliated organization within the U.S.


Key Requirements for the R-1 Visa

To qualify for an R-1 visa, applicants must meet several specific requirements:

  1. Membership in a Religious Denomination: The applicant must have been a member of a religious denomination for at least two years immediately preceding the filing of the R-1 visa application.

  2. Affiliation in the U.S.: The religious denomination must have a bona fide nonprofit religious organization or an affiliate in the United States.

  3. Qualifying U.S. Organization: The U.S. organization must be a nonprofit religious organization that is tax-exempt or would qualify as tax-exempt if it applied.

  4. Purpose of Entry: The applicant must be coming to the U.S. to work in a religious capacity, such as performing religious duties or pursuing a religious vocation. The applicant must also prove that they will be financially supported through the religious work for which the visa is granted and will not need to seek outside employment.


Duration and Extension of the R-1 Visa

The R-1 visa is typically granted for an initial period of up to three years. An extension of up to two additional years may be granted, bringing the total maximum stay to five years. Extensions are generally approved if the applicant continues to meet all the eligibility requirements.


R-2 Visa for Family Members

Spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 of R-1 visa holders may apply for an R-2 visa, allowing them to accompany the primary visa holder to the United States. R-2 visa holders are permitted to study in the U.S. but are not authorized to work.


Application Process for the R-1 Visa

  1. Petition Filing: The sponsoring U.S. religious organization must file Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, with USCIS on behalf of the applicant. The petition should include detailed evidence of the organization's nonprofit status, the applicant’s qualifications, and the nature of the religious work.

  2. Supporting Documentation: The petition must be accompanied by proof of the applicant’s membership in the religious denomination, the organization’s tax-exempt status, and evidence of the applicant’s intent to perform qualifying religious work.

  3. Consular Processing: Once the petition is approved, the applicant may apply for the R-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. The processing time can vary, and it is crucial to ensure all documentation is accurate and complete to avoid delays.


Why Choose Versfeld & Hugo LLC for Your R-1 Visa Application?

Applying for an R-1 visa can be complex, requiring careful coordination and thorough documentation. At Versfeld & Hugo LLC, we offer:

  • Personalized Legal Guidance: Our attorneys take the time to understand your specific situation and provide tailored advice to meet your needs.

  • Comprehensive Support: We handle every aspect of the R-1 visa application, from gathering necessary documents to filing the petition and responding to any requests from USCIS.

  • Expert Representation: With extensive experience in religious worker visas, our team knows the processes and procedures to work effectively with various government agencies to ensure the best possible outcome for your application.

  • Commitment to Detail: We understand that even minor errors can cause significant delays in the visa process. Our team is dedicated to providing meticulous attention to every detail of your application.


Contact Versfeld & Hugo LLC for Your R-1 Visa Needs

If you are a religious worker or a family member seeking to apply for an R-1 or R-2 visa, contact Versfeld & Hugo LLC today. Our experienced immigration attorneys are here to provide the guidance and support you need to successfully navigate the R-1 visa application process. Schedule your confidential consultation with us to discuss your options and take the first step toward bringing your religious mission to the United States. Let us help you achieve your goals with confidence and peace of mind.