This is for foreign nationals who work in a religious capacity, including a religious vocation (minister, priest, pastor) or occupation (administrative role), to work in the U.S. for a qualified religious organization.

Eligibility for Religious organization: Must be a bona fide religious organization; Must have  501(c)(3) tax exempt status or be affiliated with (within a group of) tax exempt religious organizations; Must have been in existence for at least two years before filing the petition; And must show the ability to pay the Religious Workers salary.

For the Religious Worker: Must be a member of the same religious denomination for at least two years immediately preceding the application; Must be coming to the us to work in a religious vocation or occupation (e.g., minister, missionary, religious educator); Must be qualified for the religious vocation or occupation e.g. ministers must have a certificate of ordination; and Must be working at least 20 hours per week.

Additional information:

1. Initially approved for up to 30 months.
2. Extensions for up to an additional 30 months.
3. Total period of stay in the USA cannot exceed 5 years, which is 60 months.
4. Family members can apply for R-2 status.

If you would like to access your eligibility, schedule a consultation with us today and let us help you reach your immigration goals.