R-1 visa
Published on November 26, 2025 · 2 min read
What is an R-1 visa?
An R-1 visa is a temporary, non-immigrant visa for foreign nationals who want to work in the United States as religious workers. It is designed for ministers, members of religious orders, and individuals employed in religious vocations or occupations who are sponsored by a qualifying nonprofit religious organization in the U.S. The visa allows religious communities to bring in workers who will help carry out their faith-based missions.
Key elements of an R-1 visa
- For religious workers: Eligible applicants include ministers, missionaries, religious instructors, and members of recognized religious orders. The work must be primarily religious in nature, not administrative or secular.
- Sponsorship required: Applicants must be sponsored by a nonprofit religious organization in the U.S. that is tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The sponsoring organization must also demonstrate the ability to financially support the position.
- Screening and approval: The process may include background checks, security clearances, and in-person interviews to confirm eligibility.
- Length of stay: An R-1 visa is typically granted for up to 30 months (2.5 years) and may be extended once, for a total stay of up to five years.
- Application process: The sponsoring organization must file Form I-129 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). USCIS may conduct a site visit to confirm the organization's legitimacy and position before approving the petition.
- Family members: Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may join the visa holder under R-2 visas. While they cannot work, they may attend school in the U.S.
- Path to permanent residency: Although the R-1 is a temporary visa, some holders may later qualify for permanent residency through an immigrant religious worker petition (EB-4 visa category).
Why the R-1 visa matters
The R-1 visa allows U.S. religious organizations to bring in qualified workers to support their communities, expand outreach, and maintain essential services. Applicants can live out their religious calling in the U.S. while serving congregations, schools, or missionary programs. Because the process involves strict eligibility requirements, extensive documentation, and possible site inspections, working with an immigration attorney can be helpful for guidance, clarity, and support.
