General Information:
The R-1 Non-Immigrant Visa is designed for people who are coming to work in the US for a non-profit religious organization (e.g. as a Rabbi OR Teacher for a religious Organization). You must have been a member of the religious denomination for the past two years. No prior experience is required. Visas are normally issued for three years and may be extended for additional two years. You may pursue a Green Card application in any other category. Furthermore, after two years, your work experience may be used in order to apply for a green card as under Special Immigrants. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 will be entitled to R-2 derivative status.

Visa Applications:
R-1 applications may be filed either with appropriate USCIS OR with a US Consulate. If you are outside the US you may apply for an R-1 Visa in the US Consulate at your country of residence. If you are already in the US on a different status you may apply for a Change of Status to R-1. However, if you leave the US you will have to apply for an R-1 Visa at a US Consulate in order to be admitted in this status.

Extension of Stay in the US and Change of Status:
When you come to the US with an R-1 Visa, the Immigration Officer at the port of entry will usually grant you permission to stay (a Status) for the period up to the date your Visa expires. This Status may be EXTENDED or CHANGED to another status for example, to B1-B2, H, L, E-1, E-2, F/J/M OR Green Card.

Frequently asked questions:

I am in the US on an R-1 Status, can I change my employer?
Yes. You may file an application to change your employer. However, if you leave the US you will have to apply for a new R-1 Visa at a US Consulate in order to be admitted again in this status.

How long does it take for the USCIS to make a decision on my application?
A decision can take between 60 to 120 days. Sometimes the USCIS issue a Notice of Action requesting additional documents and / or information, which may delay the process.

Can an R-1 holder work part time?
No. But you may work part time in two separate jobs, for two US Employers, which together constitute a full time job.

Do I have to come to your office in order to file the application?
No. Almost every application to EXTEND or to CHANGE a status does not require a personal meeting in our office and can be made through mail, fax or email correspondence.

How do I start a case?
To start a case you will have to provide us with your resume and a profile of the organization who wishes to sponsor you for the Visa. We charge $275.00 to evaluate a case. The payment is non-refundable. However, if a decision is reached within 30 days to employ the services of our firm, the payment for the evaluation will be credited toward the additional legal fees expected to be paid for this service.

*Note that the above prices are subject to change at any time and without further notice. Prices do not include applications for dependents, dealing with Notice of Actions, out of pocket expenses and any unexpected circumstances we may have to address.

**This is general information and is NOT intended to provide legal advice.