Applying for an R1 visa requires submitting several important documents that prove both the eligibility of the U.S. religious organization sponsoring the visa and the qualifications of the applicant. Here’s a detailed guide on the key documents needed at each step of the R1 visa application process:
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1. Documents Required by the U.S. Religious Organization (for I-129 Petition)
The U.S. religious organization must submit a petition on behalf of the applicant by filing Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Along with this form, the organization must include several supporting documents:
- Form I-129: Completed petition form.
- Proof of Religious Organization’s Nonprofit Status:
- IRS determination letter showing that the organization is a tax-exempt, nonprofit religious organization under Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3).
- If part of a group tax exemption, a copy of the group exemption letter and proof that the religious organization is covered under the group tax exemption.
- Documentation of Religious Nature of the Organization:
- Literature or other documentation that explains the religious nature and goals of the organization.
- Proof of Employment:
- A letter from the religious organization explaining the offered position, its duties, and the qualifications required for the position.
- Evidence that the applicant will work at least 20 hours per week in a religious capacity.
- Compensation Documentation:
- Evidence of how the applicant will be compensated (e.g., salary, stipends, room and board).
- If the applicant will not be compensated, documentation proving how the applicant will be supported (e.g., proof of personal or community financial support).
- Proof of Religious Membership:
- Evidence that the applicant has been a member of the same religious denomination for at least two years prior to filing the petition.
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2. Documents Required for the Visa Applicant
Once the I-129 petition is approved, the applicant will need to gather additional documents to apply for the R1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. These documents include:
At the U.S. Embassy or Consulate (for Visa Interview)
- DS-160 Form Confirmation Page: Complete the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form and bring the confirmation page to the interview.
- Valid Passport: The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in the U.S.
- Visa Appointment Confirmation: Print the confirmation of your scheduled interview.
- Form I-797: A copy of the USCIS Notice of Approval (Form I-797), confirming that the I-129 petition has been approved.
- Photograph: One passport-sized photo that meets U.S. visa requirements (typically, a 2 x 2 inch photo with a white background).
- Proof of Religious Membership:
- Documents or letters showing that the applicant has been a member of the religious denomination for at least two years.
- Supporting Documents for Job Position:
- Offer letter or employment contract from the U.S. religious organization detailing the applicant’s duties and position.
- Proof of compensation, as required by the job position.
Additional Documents to Bring to the Interview:
- Financial Documents: If applicable, bring proof of financial support from the religious organization or personal resources, particularly if the position does not include a salary.
- Educational Credentials: If the position requires specific religious training or education, bring certificates or degrees that demonstrate your qualifications.
- Previous U.S. Visa Records (if applicable): If you have previously been issued any U.S. visas, you may need to bring these to the interview as well.
3. Documents Required for R1 Visa Extension
If the R1 visa holder wishes to extend their stay beyond the initial 30-month period, the religious organization must again file Form I-129 with USCIS. The required documents for the extension process include:
- Form I-129: Completed form requesting the extension.
- Proof of Continued Employment: Updated documentation from the religious organization showing that the applicant continues to work in the same position and under the same terms.
- Proof of Compensation: Documents proving how the applicant continues to be compensated or supported.
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4. Documents for Change of Status to a Green Card (Optional)
R1 visa holders may eventually apply for permanent residency (green card) under the EB-4 Special Immigrant Religious Worker category. The documents required include:
- Form I-360: Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant.
- Evidence of Religious Work: Proof that the applicant has worked full-time (35+ hours per week) for at least two years in a qualifying religious occupation or vocation.
- Proof of Continuity: Evidence that the applicant will continue to work in a similar position in the U.S.
Obtaining an R1 visa requires careful preparation of documents by both the sponsoring religious organization and the visa applicant. The religious organization must provide evidence of its legitimacy, nonprofit status, and the nature of the job, while the applicant must prove their qualifications and membership in the religious denomination. Having all necessary documents organized and submitted correctly is essential for a smooth R1 visa application process.
