Skip to Content
Akula & Associates P.C. Akula & Associates P.C.
Call Us Today! 844-299-5003
Top
R-Visas Elevating Immigration Solutions with Experience, Diversity, and Cutting-Edge Technology

Dallas Religious Worker Visa Attorney: Secure Your R-Visa

Experienced Immigration Legal Services in Dallas

If a foreign national needs to enter the United States temporarily for religious work, the individual can apply for an R nonimmigrant visa. This visa program is targeted at religious workers who dedicate their lives to carrying out religious functions and beliefs of their respective denomination, such as ministers, priests, temple workers. Certain positions such as administrative or support work do not qualify as religious occupations.

Get Professional Help with Your R-1 Visa Application at (844) 299-5003 Today!

Eligibility Criteria for R-1 Religious Visas in Dallas

Qualifications for an R-1 Visa:

  • The religious worker must be employed in a religious occupation or as a minister by a non-profit religious organization in the U.S.
  • The religious worker must be employed at least 20 hours per week.
  • The religious worker must be a member of the religious denomination for two years prior to filing a petition.
  • The religious organization must hold tax exempt status under U.S. law.

Step-by-Step Guide to Securing an R-1 Visa in Texas

Employers must file for this visa on behalf of the religious worker using Form DS-160 non-immigrant visa application and Form I-129 and include the necessary documentation.

Once the petition is submitted, a USCIS office may conduct an on-site inspection to determine whether the religious site meets the requirements.

An R-1 visa holder may remain in the U.S. for up to 30 months.

Akula & Associates and our team of Dallas immigration attorneys have experience assisting religious workers with their immigration issues. We can provide guidance for religious organizations during legal immigration proceedings.

FAQ: R-Visa – Religious Worker Visa Guidance

1. What is an R-Visa?

The R nonimmigrant visa allows foreign nationals to temporarily enter the U.S. for religious work. This visa is intended for individuals who perform religious duties such as ministers, priests, or other clergy members, as well as workers in religious occupations tied to the core tenets of their faith.

2. Who is eligible for an R-1 Visa?

To qualify for an R-1 visa, applicants must meet these criteria:

  • Be employed in a religious occupation or as a minister by a non-profit religious organization in the U.S.
  • Work a minimum of 20 hours per week.
  • Be a member of the same religious denomination for at least two years before filing the petition.
  • The sponsoring religious organization must have tax-exempt status under U.S. law.

3. What positions do not qualify for an R-1 Visa?

Positions that are administrative or support-based, such as secretarial roles or maintenance work, do not qualify. Only roles involving religious functions central to the denomination’s beliefs are eligible.

4. How long can an R-1 visa holder stay in the U.S.?

R-1 visa holders are permitted to stay in the U.S. for an initial period of up to 30 months. Extensions can be granted, with a maximum stay of five years in total.

5. What steps are involved in securing an R-1 Visa?

The process includes the following steps:

  1. Employer’s Petition: The sponsoring religious organization must file Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, with supporting documentation.
  2. Visa Application: The worker must complete Form DS-160, the nonimmigrant visa application, and submit it to a U.S. consulate if applying from abroad.
  3. USCIS Site Visit: The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may conduct an on-site inspection to verify the legitimacy of the religious organization and the role.

Get Professional Help with Your R-1 Visa Application at (844) 299-5003 Today!

Get to Know Us Our firm is committed to helping you navigate immigration law.
Learn More

A Reputation of Excellence Our Success

    "Through honest and direct communication Mr. Akula and her staff is very thorough"
    The relationship between Akula & Associates and CCIT has been very rewarding. Our company continues to trust Ms. Akula’s extensive immigration experience and we have yet to be disappointed. Through honest and direct communication Ms. Akula and her staff is very thorough; we have an understanding and comfort that all immigration matters are handled effectively and efficiently. Quick response is what we expect from legal counsel and that is exactly what the office of Akula& Associates delivers!
    - Vijay Seri, President – CCIT
    "I'm very pleased for the result of course but also with your professionalism and customer service"
    I want to thank all the Akula and Associates team that contribute with my immigration process. This process can be very stressful and confusing, but with your advice and support you make it very simple for me. I'm very pleased for the result of course but also with your professionalism and customer service, I never felt alone and you answered all my doubt very fast. Thank you and I wish you success and see you in a few years for my citizenship!
    - Jorge R.
    "Five stars are not enough to represent the excellent work"
    I recommend it to everyone, especially the Brazilian community.
    - Fernando M.
    "This is the best immigration law firm in Dallas"
    This is the best immigration law firm in Dallas in my opinion. Ms. Kate Brady provided awesome and prompt service in my case. She is very knowledgeable and experienced in the field and her expertise gave me immense confidence!! I will recommend this firm to everyone looking for immigration services :)
    - Vega B.
    "A professional team worthy of trust!"
    Swati and attorneys Katrina and Ashley made a long and complex process completely bearable
    - Lenny M.
    "Attentive and kind service."
    We are grateful to Akula & Associates, P.C. for helping me obtain a K1 fiance visa and now, a green card in a very short time. The team was attentive, kind, and always provided the right information. We are very happy to have completed our process with you and will continue working together. Thank you for your patience.
    - Anais & Christian L.
    "I never felt alone and you answered all my doubts very fast"
    I want to thank all the Akula and Associates team that contribute with my immigration process, specially Yezenia Jimenez and Kathy Brady. This process can be very stressful and confusing, but with your advice and support you make it very simple for me. I'm very please for the result of course but also with your professionalism and customer service, I never felt alone and you answered all my doubts very fast. Thank you and I wish you success and see you in a few years for my citizenship!
    - Jorge A.
    "Stellar Service"
    Wow, what an amazing experience I had with Akula & Associates. Kavitha Akula and her assistant Christie were 100% top-notch with everything they did from start to finish on my employment-based Green Card. I would HIGHLY recommend this law firm, they are the best!
    - Reddy

Contact Us

We’re Ready to Help

A member of our team will be in touch shortly to confirm your contact details or address questions you may have.

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Akula & Associates P.C. at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy

Choose Excellence, Choose Akula & Associates for Your Immigration Needs

  • Cutting-Edge Technology
    We leverage advanced technology to provide efficient, real-time updates and secure client accessibility, making your immigration journey smoother and hassle-free. Your convenience and progress are our priorities.
  • Diversity and Multilingual Support
    Our multicultural and multilingual team ensures that we understand your background, culture, and language, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that simplifies the immigration process.
  • Decades of Expertise
    With over 30 years of global business and industry-specific immigration law experience, our seasoned team is dedicated to delivering successful immigration solutions tailored to your unique needs.