The R-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows religious workers to enter the United States to perform religious duties for a designated period. Here’s a detailed overview of the duration associated with the R-1 visa:
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Initial Duration of Stay
- Initial Grant: The R-1 visa is initially granted for a period of up to 30 months (2.5 years). This duration is determined upon the approval of the Form I-129 petition filed by the sponsoring religious organization.
Extensions
- Possible Extensions: The R-1 visa can be extended for additional increments of up to 30 months at a time, allowing religious workers to continue their ministry without needing to reapply for a new visa.
- Maximum Stay: The total maximum duration of stay in the U.S. on an R-1 visa is five years. This includes the initial 30 months plus any subsequent extensions.
Conditions for Extensions
- Eligibility for Extensions: To qualify for an extension, R-1 visa holders must continue to meet the eligibility criteria, including being engaged in religious work for the sponsoring organization and maintaining valid visa status.
- Filing for Extensions: Extensions must be requested before the current R-1 visa expires. The sponsoring organization needs to file a new Form I-129 for the extension.
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Transitioning to Permanent Residency
- Adjustment of Status: After completing the maximum duration on the R-1 visa, if religious workers wish to remain in the U.S., they may explore options to adjust their status to become lawful permanent residents (green card holders). This typically involves filing for a different visa category that permits permanent residency.
Dependents
- Duration for Dependents: Dependents of R-1 visa holders (spouse and children under 21) who hold the R-2 visa can stay for the same duration as the R-1 visa holder. If the R-1 visa holder’s stay is extended, the R-2 visa holders can also apply for extensions.
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The R-1 visa provides a flexible structure for religious workers, with an initial duration of 30 months and the possibility of extending their stay up to five years. This allows them to contribute to their religious communities in the U.S. while also offering pathways to longer-term residency options.
