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The R-1 classification applies to a religious worker. This is an alien coming to the U.S. temporarily to work:

As a minister of religion, [Deacons, practitioners of Christian Science and officers of Salvation Army may be deemed ministers]; or

As a professional in a religious vocation or occupation, or

- Professional capacity is defined as B.A. degree or foreign equivalent degree

- Religious occupation is activity which related to traditional religious functions e.g., cantors, liturgical workers, translators, religious broadcasters, workers in religious hospitals

- Religious vocation related to traditional religious functions, e.g., nun, monk.

For a bona fide nonprofit (§ 501(c)(3) of IRC) religious organization at the request of the organization, in a religious occupation which relates to a traditional religious function.

The applicant (religious worker) must have been a member of a religious denomination having a nonprofit religious organization in the United States for at least the two years immediately prior to the application date. If a person is merely a member of denomination that is sufficient.

Other Related Points:
Entry limited to 5 years

If the alien is outside the U.S., he or she may apply directly to a consulate for an R visa. If visa exempt, the alien may apply at a port of entry.

If the alien is inside the U.S., the religious organization may use Form I-129 to petition for a change of status, extension of stay, or change of employment.

Dependents
Dependents (spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age) of R-1 workers are entitled to R-2 status with the same restrictions as the principal. Dependents may be students in the U.S., but may not be employed under the R-2 classification.
 
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