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Religious Worker Visa

Legal Support for Religious Workers Seeking to Serve in the United States

The United States offers specific visas for individuals who wish to perform religious work, whether as ministers, spiritual leaders, or members of recognized religious organizations. These visas provide an opportunity to contribute to religious communities in the country, but the application process requires meeting strict criteria and submitting detailed documentation.

At the Law Office of Jesus Reyes, we provide specialized legal assistance to help you navigate your visa application as a religious worker, ensuring that your case is properly prepared and meets all immigration regulations.

What is a Religious Worker Visa?

The Religious Worker Visa (R-1) is a temporary visa for individuals who seek to enter the United States to perform religious work, including:

  • Ministers or religious leaders: Individuals authorized by their denomination to conduct religious duties such as ceremonies, preaching, and spiritual guidance.
  • Religious professionals: Individuals with specialized training in religious-related activities.
  • Members of a religious vocation: Individuals who dedicate their lives to religious service, including monks, nuns, or members of religious orders.

This visa allows you to carry out activities aligned with your faith and strengthen the mission of your religious organization in the United States.

Who Qualifies for the R-1 Visa?

Eligibility for the R-1 Visa requires the following:

  1. Affiliation with a Recognized Religious Organization:
    • The organization must be registered as a nonprofit religious entity in the United States.
    • You must have been a member of the religious denomination for at least two years before applying.
  2. Commitment to Specific Religious Activities:
    • You must perform religious duties directly related to your organization’s faith, such as preaching, teaching, spiritual service, or counseling.
  3. Proof of Temporary Intent:
    • You must demonstrate that your stay in the United States is temporary and that you plan to return to your home country after completing your mission.
  4. Financial Support:


Your organization must provide proof that it can financially support you during your stay, or that you have the necessary resources.

Benefits of the R-1 Visa

Applying for the Religious Worker Visa offers several advantages:

  • Legal Entry into the United States: Allows you to serve in your religious vocation legally.
  • Extended Stay Period: Provides an initial stay of up to 30 months, with the possibility of extension.
  • Family Support: Enables your immediate family members to apply for derivative visas so they can accompany you during your mission.

Application Process and Documentation

The process to obtain the R-1 Visa requires careful preparation and includes the following steps:

  1. Petition by the Religious Organization (Form I-129): The organization must submit this petition to USCIS on your behalf.
  2. Supporting Documentation:
    • Proof of the organization’s nonprofit status.
    • Employment letter detailing your roles and responsibilities.
    • Evidence of your membership and religious affiliation.
  3. Consular Interview: After approval, you must attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.


Our office ensures that all documentation is prepared and thoroughly reviewed, increasing your chances of success.

Contact Us Today to schedule Your Legal Consultation

The Religious Worker Visa is an invaluable tool for those seeking to strengthen their religious mission in the United States. At the Law Office of Jesús Reyes, we have extensive experience handling religious immigration cases and are committed to helping you achieve your goals.

Schedule your legal consultation today to receive the professional guidance you need and ensure a smooth, efficient process.

We are here to support your vocation and mission!