WORK VISAS TO THE UNITED STATES

RELIGIOUS WORKER VISA TO THE UNITED STATES

Religious Workers living abroad may enter the United States to work either as a minister of religion, or at the request of the organization or affiliated organization in a religious position or job.

RELIGIOUS WORKER VISA BASIC REQUIREMENTS

The Religious Worker Visa requires applicants to obtain an R-1 Visa prior to entry and show that the purpose of their stay is to work in the U.S. as a minister of religion, or in a religious position or job, for a nonprofit religious organization or denomination that is exempt from taxation. To qualify for the Religious Worker Visa, applicants must show membership in a religious organization for at least two years prior to application, and proof of financial sufficiency for the duration of stay in the U.S. Applicants may also be required to meet certain criminal and medical requirements.

RELIGIOUS WORKER VISA ENTITLEMENTS

Spouses and/or children under the age of 21 who wish to accompany or join the principal visa holder in the United States for the duration of his/her stay require derivative visa status. Spouses and children of visa holders may study in private or public schools in the United States without obtaining a Study Visa. Spouses may apply for work authorization if seeking employment for their duration of stay in the United States.

Skilled (Work) Visa provides you with the opportunity to work and live in the United States for a designated period at a specific job. As well, you are entitled to have dual intent, which means that you are able to maintain your visa status as a temporary worker while at the same time pursuing permanent residence, otherwise known as applying for a Green Card. As a Permanent Resident, you will have most of the rights of a United States Citizen, with few exceptions, including the right to live permanently in the United States, the right to be employed in the United States in any legal work, the right to study and the right to vote in some local elections.

Spouses and/or children under the age of 21 who wish to accompany or join the principal visa holder in the United States for the duration of his/her stay require derivative visa status. Spouses and children of visa holders may study in private or public schools in the United States without obtaining a Study Visa. Spouses may apply for work authorization if seeking employment for their duration of stay in the United States.

You will also be able to travel freely among the 50 states and travel to and from the United States. As well, once eligible, you can apply become to a U.S. citizen.