Find immigration lawyers who help religious workers secure an R-1 Visa and transition to permanent residency.
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Time matters in every immigration process. Begin your R-1 application today and let the process build in the background while you continue your religious service. The sooner you start, the sooner you secure your future in the U.S.
Why choose R-1 Visa
What is the R-1 Visa and who is it for?
The R-1 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa for religious workers who want to enter the U.S. to serve at nonprofit religious organizations. Eligible applicants include ministers, missionaries, and religious professionals who dedicate their lives to spiritual work. The visa is typically valid for 30 months with the option to extend up to five years, and it often serves as a bridge to a green card through the EB-4 category.
Visa applicants this year
Thousands apply every year. These are just a few we've helped connect with trusted immigration lawyers.
Religious worker visas require strong documentation of both the sponsoring organization and the applicant’s qualifications. VisaLaws connects you with verified immigration lawyers who specialize in religious worker cases. From preparing petitions to guiding you through extensions and compliance, our network helps you avoid costly mistakes and positions your case for approval.
Visa progress
Olena V.
Fintech & Cybernetics
Moved from Ukraine to pursue cybernetics - now in Silicon Valley
100%
Approved
Green card status
35% complete
Adjustment of status underway Filed: May 2025 Expected: Feb 2026
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Juan C.
Software Engineer
VISA TYPE
H-1B Visa
ELIGIBILTY STATUS
ELIGIBLE
TIMELINE
2-3 months
Citizenship
Visa
Path to Green Card
Can the R-1 Visa lead to permanent residency?
Yes. Many R-1 Visa holders transition to a green card through the EB-4 Religious Worker category. With experienced lawyers, you can move from temporary status to permanent residency while continuing your service in the U.S. Immigration attorneys help you prepare the strongest case for long-term stability and citizenship.
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Hey Joseph, is this the right step to get my citizenship? What is the fastest path to a Green Card?
•••
Green card status
75% complete
Adjustment of status underway Filed: July 2025 Expected: March 2026
After reviewing your situation, connect directly with immigration lawyers who understand the R-1 process. Your lawyer will explain your options, help with filing, and guide you toward extensions or green card status. Start today to secure your path forward.
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FAQ
Common R-1 visa Q's
What is an R-1 Visa?
The R-1 Visa is for foreign nationals coming to the U.S. to work temporarily as ministers or in other religious occupations at nonprofit religious organizations.
Who qualifies for an R-1 Visa?
Ministers, missionaries, religious instructors, cantors, and individuals working in recognized religious roles qualify. Applicants must show membership in a religious denomination for at least two years.
How long is the R-1 Visa valid?
The visa is initially valid for 30 months (2.5 years) and can be extended for another 30 months, up to a total of 5 years.
Can an R-1 Visa lead to a Green Card?
Yes, through the EB-4 Immigrant Visa for Religious Workers. Many R-1 holders adjust status to permanent residency after demonstrating ongoing religious service.
What is the EB-4 Religious Worker category?
The EB-4 is an immigrant visa classification that allows R-1 religious workers to apply for permanent residency in the U.S., provided their work and organization meet USCIS criteria.
Do I need a sponsor for the R-1 Visa?
Yes, the sponsoring organization must be a nonprofit religious entity recognized by the IRS and must petition for the worker by filing Form I-129.
Can my family come with me on an R-1 Visa?
Yes, spouses and unmarried children under 21 can accompany you under R-2 Visas, though they cannot work in the U.S.
Can R-1 Visa holders study in the U.S.?
Yes, R-1 holders and their dependents can enroll in academic programs without needing an additional student visa.
Can I switch employers while on an R-1 Visa?
Yes, but only if the new employer is a qualifying nonprofit religious organization. A new petition must be filed and approved before beginning work.
Can I be paid while on an R-1 Visa?
Yes, R-1 holders can receive compensation for their religious work. Proof of compensation or financial support must be included in the application.
What documents are required for an R-1 Visa?
You’ll need proof of religious membership, documentation of the sponsoring organization’s nonprofit status, Form I-129, DS-160 confirmation, a valid passport, and evidence of your role and duties.
Can I extend my R-1 Visa?
Yes, extensions are available up to a maximum of five years total stay. Extensions require updated petitions and continued proof of eligibility.
What happens if my R-1 Visa expires?
You must leave the U.S. or apply for a change of status. Overstaying may result in penalties, future visa denials, or bans from reentry.
Can I apply for permanent residency without leaving the U.S.?
Yes, if you qualify under EB-4, you may adjust status inside the U.S. without needing consular processing abroad.
How long does it take to process an R-1 Visa?
Processing can take several months, depending on USCIS backlogs and whether premium processing is available for your petition.
Can R-1 Visa holders apply for U.S. citizenship?
Yes, after obtaining a green card through EB-4, religious workers may eventually apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting residency and naturalization requirements.
Can R-1 dependents (R-2) work in the U.S.?
No, R-2 dependents cannot work but can attend school or college while living in the U.S.
Do I need to prove my religious organization is nonprofit?
Yes, proof such as IRS 501(c)(3) documentation must be submitted to show the sponsoring organization’s tax-exempt religious status.
Can I travel internationally on an R-1 Visa?
Yes, R-1 Visa holders may travel in and out of the U.S. while their visa is valid, but reentry requires a valid visa stamp in the passport.
Do I need a lawyer for an R-1 Visa?
While not required, an immigration lawyer ensures compliance with USCIS rules, prepares strong petitions, and increases your chance of approval, especially for EB-4 green card transitions.
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Tell us about your case and connect directly with trusted immigration lawyers. Whether you’re applying for the first time, renewing, or preparing for permanent residency, you’ll find the guidance you need to protect your mission and your future in the U.S.
