The R-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to work temporarily in the United States in a religious capacity. Applicants and their sponsoring organizations should be aware of the various fees associated with the R-1 visa application process. Below is a breakdown of the key fees involved:
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1. Form I-129 Filing Fee
- Amount: $460
- Description: This is the primary fee for filing Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, which is necessary for obtaining an R-1 visa. The fee must be paid by the U.S. employer or religious organization that is sponsoring the foreign national. This fee is non-refundable, meaning it will not be returned even if the petition is denied.
2. Premium Processing Fee (Optional)
- Amount: $2,500
- Description: Applicants who wish to expedite the processing of their R-1 visa petition can opt for premium processing. This service guarantees a decision within 15 calendar days for the Form I-129. To utilize this service, applicants must file Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, along with the appropriate fee. Like the I-129 fee, the premium processing fee is also non-refundable.
3. Visa Application Fee
- Amount: $160 (standard)
- Description: After USCIS approves the Form I-129, the applicant must apply for the R-1 visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy. The visa application fee varies based on nationality and reciprocity agreements. The standard fee for most non-immigrant visas is $160. However, it may be higher for certain nationalities.
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4. Medical Examination Fees
- Amount: Typically between $100 to $500
- Description: Applicants may be required to undergo a medical examination by a USCIS-approved physician as part of the visa application process. The costs for the medical exam can vary widely depending on the provider and location.
5. Document Preparation and Miscellaneous Costs
- Amount: Varies
- Description: There may be additional costs associated with preparing supporting documents for the R-1 visa application. These can include:
- Translation services for documents not in English.
- Legal fees if hiring an immigration attorney.
- Travel expenses for attending visa interviews at consulates or embassies.
Payment Procedures
- Form I-129: The filing fee can be paid via check or money order payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security” when submitting the petition by mail. If filing in person, credit card payments may be made using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions.
- Premium Processing: The premium processing fee must be included with Form I-907 when submitted alongside Form I-129 or afterward, as long as the I-129 has not yet been adjudicated.
- Visa Application Fee: This fee is typically paid at the U.S. consulate or embassy where the visa interview takes place. Payment methods can include bank transfers, cash, or credit/debit card, depending on the location.
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Additional Considerations
- Non-Refundable Fees: It’s essential to note that most fees associated with the R-1 visa application process are non-refundable, so applicants should ensure the accuracy of their petitions to avoid unnecessary costs.
- Total Cost Planning: Applicants should plan for the total costs associated with obtaining the R-1 visa, including all applicable fees and additional expenses, to ensure financial preparedness.
- Changes in Fees: USCIS fees can change, so it is crucial for applicants to stay updated by checking the USCIS website for current fee schedules.
By understanding the R-1 visa fees, applicants and their sponsoring organizations can navigate the financial aspects of the application process more effectively, paving the way for a successful petition for religious workers.
