R1- Visa
The R-1 Visa enables religious
workers to temporarily enter the United States. A religious
vocation is defined as a calling to religious life, shown
by a demonstration of a lifelong commitment; for instance,
taking vows. Nuns, monks, and religious brothers and sisters
are examples of religious workers.
A religious occupation is defined
as a continual engagement in an activity related to a traditional
religious function. This definition includes liturgical workers,
religious instructors or cantors, catechists, workers in religious
hospitals, missionaries, religious translators and religious
broadcasters. However, it doesn't include janitors, maintenance
workers, clerks, fund raisers or solicitors of donations.
Your spouse and/or unmarried
children under 21 years of age may be granted derivative status
to enter the U.S. They are not authorized to work while in
the U.S., but may attend school.
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I-360
Petition
While R-1 visa is a temporary visa
for religious workers, I-360 petition seeks to secure permanent
residency for the religious workers.
You should provide the following
documents.
Proof that your religious organization
is a non-profit organization.
A letter from an official of your religious organization in
the U.S. stating that you have been a member of the denomination
for at least two years, and that you have at least two years
experience in your vocation or occupation. The letter should
also state certain details about your particular type of vocation/occupation.
This letter should also state how you will be paid for your
work, and that you do not intend to supplement your income with
a second job, or depend on charity for support |
