For those called to serve faith communities across the United States
Bring Your Ministry to the U.S. With an R-1 Religious Worker Visa
- Temporary non-immigrant visa for ministers and religious workers
- Flat, transparent fees and bilingual guidance for applicants and sponsoring organizations
- 20+ years of experience with religious and humanitarian immigration
Bonus: Includes eligibility review for R-1 and EB-4 religious pathways
Your calling deserves stability—let’s make your service recognized under U.S. immigration law.
When Faith Meets Immigration Law, Clarity Matters
You’ve devoted your life to ministry and service—but navigating U.S. immigration law shouldn’t stand in your way.
The R-1 visa allows religious workers to enter or remain in the United States temporarily to serve in a religious vocation or occupation for a qualified nonprofit organization.
At Dinits Immigration Law, we partner with churches, temples, mosques, and religious nonprofits to ensure every R-1 petition meets U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) standards.
We help you focus on your mission—while we handle the legal details.
Call 516-208-2060 today to confirm your eligibility.
Who Qualifies for an R-1 Religious Worker Visa?
You may qualify if you:
- Have been a member of a bona fide nonprofit religious denomination for at least two years before applying.
- Are coming to the U.S. to work at least 20 hours per week in a religious vocation or occupation (minister, missionary, cantor, educator, administrator, etc.).
- Will be employed by a U.S. nonprofit religious organization or a nonprofit affiliate of a religious denomination.
- Can demonstrate the organization’s IRS tax-exempt status.
Special immigrant non-minister provisions may also be available for limited time, allowing both ministers and certain non-minister religious workers to apply for immigrant and non-immigrant classifications.
Call 516-208-2060 for an eligibility review.
Why Choose Dinits Immigration Law for R-1 Filings
1. Decades of Experience in Religious Immigration
Attorney Michelle Dinits has guided churches, temples, and humanitarian groups through hundreds of successful R-1 and EB-4 cases.
2. Culturally Fluent, Faith-Respectful Approach
We understand the importance of your ministry and the sensitivity of your mission work.
3. Bilingual Support for Global Applicants
We work assist clients around the world preparing to serve in the U.S.
4. Flat-Fee, Transparent Pricing
We keep costs clear and predictable—no hidden fees.
5. Complete Case Management
From Form I-129 filing to consular processing or status extension, we handle your case from start to finish.
Call 516-208-2060 today to get started.
The R-1 Visa Advantage
Serve While You Stay
R-1 status allows religious workers to live and serve in the U.S. for an initial 30 months, with a possible 30-month extension (total 5 years).
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Many R-1 holders later apply for EB-4 Special Immigrant Religious Worker status for permanent residence.
Family Benefits
Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can accompany the principal worker in R-2 dependent status.
No Labor Certification Required
R-1 petitions bypass the Department of Labor PERM process.
Call 516-208-2060 for details on transitioning from R-1 to EB-4.
6 Ways We Simplify the Process for You
1. Organizational Eligibility Review:
We verify your religious organization’s nonprofit and denomination status.
2. Applicant Qualification Review:
We confirm membership, duties, and proof of prior religious service.
3. Petition Preparation:
We prepare and file Form I-129 with all required supporting documentation.
4. USCIS Site Visit Preparation:
We guide organizations on how to prepare for potential compliance inspections.
5. Consular Processing or Status Change:
We manage interviews and paperwork for entry or extension.
6. Future Residency Planning:
We help you plan your EB-4 filing for long-term immigration security.
Call 516-208-2060 to begin your application today.
How Our Process Works
Consultation:
We confirm eligibility for both the worker and sponsoring organization.
Document Collection:
We gather membership proof, tax-exempt status, and job-offer letters.
Filing:
We prepare and file Form I-129 (R-1) with USCIS.
Processing and Approval:
Once approved, we coordinate consular visa issuance or status change in the U.S.
Extension or Permanent Transition:
We assist with extensions or EB-4 filings for permanent residence.
Faith and service deserve protection—let us help you continue your mission with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About R-1 Religious Worker Visas
How long can I stay on an R-1 visa?
Up to five years total (initial 30 months + 30-month extension).
Can my family come with me?
Yes. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 may apply for R-2 status but cannot work in the U.S.
Does the organization need to be a church?
No. Any nonprofit religious organization or qualified affiliate with IRS 501(c)(3) status may petition for you.
What if USCIS conducts a site visit?
It’s standard practice. We prepare your organization in advance to ensure compliance and readiness.
Can I apply for a green card later?
Yes. Many R-1 holders transition to permanent residency under the EB-4 Religious Worker category once eligible.
Call 516-208-2060 for current USCIS filing updates and tailored advice.
Your Ministry Deserves a Stable Foundation
The R-1 visa honors those who dedicate their lives to faith and service.
At Dinits Immigration Law, we combine legal precision with deep respect for your mission—helping you continue your work in the United States with peace of mind.
Call 516-208-2060 today to start your R-1 process with trusted, compassionate guidance.