USCIS Eases R-1 Rules for Religious Workers

Last updated on 17 minutes ago

WASHINGTON (Visas & Travels) — The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a significant policy update for the R-1 nonimmigrant religious worker visa program, eliminating a longstanding requirement that could disrupt essential religious services across the country.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on January 14, 2026, USCIS stated that R-1 religious workers no longer need to reside and be physically present outside the United States for one year at the end of their statutory five-year maximum period of stay to be eligible for readmission in R-1 status.

This longstanding rule, previously part of the program’s regulations, required religious workers — including ministers and those in religious vocations or occupations — to leave the U.S. for a full year after reaching the five-year limit before they could seek to re-enter on a new R-1 visa. The change, effective immediately, aims to reduce disruptions to the vital services provided by these workers in U.S. churches, temples, mosques, and other religious organizations.

The R-1 visa is a temporary nonimmigrant category for religious workers coming to the United States to perform full-time compensated religious duties. Share on X

The agency explained: “This improvement will promote stability and minimize disruptions to the essential services provided by nonimmigrant religious workers in the United States.” USCIS emphasized that the adjustment supports continuity for religious communities that rely on these workers for worship, education, counseling, and charitable activities.

Background on the R-1 Visa

The R-1 visa is a temporary nonimmigrant category for religious workers coming to the United States to perform full-time compensated religious duties. Eligibility requires at least two years of membership in a bona fide religious denomination with a nonprofit religious organization in the U.S., and the worker must be entering for a role such as minister, missionary, or in a religious vocation (e.g., nun, monk, or religious instructor).

The program allows an initial stay of up to 30 months, with extensions possible in increments of up to 30 months, for a maximum of five years. Unlike some other nonimmigrant categories, R-1 visas do not lead directly to permanent residency, though workers may pursue other pathways if eligible.

The previous one-year absence rule was designed to prevent indefinite stays but often created practical hardships, including gaps in religious leadership and challenges for organizations serving immigrant or underserved communities.

Implications for Religious Organizations and Workers

The policy shift is expected to benefit thousands of religious workers and the congregations they serve. Faith-based groups, particularly those in rural or minority communities, have long advocated for such flexibility to maintain consistent pastoral care without forced interruptions.

Immigration experts note that this update aligns with broader efforts to streamline nonimmigrant visa processes while maintaining program integrity. It does not affect the separate Employment-Based Fourth Preference (EB-4) special immigrant religious worker category, which remains subject to periodic legislative extensions — currently set to expire on January 30, 2026, for non-minister special immigrants (SR subcategory), unless Congress acts.

Broader Context in U.S. Immigration Policy

The R-1 change comes amid ongoing discussions about immigration enforcement and reform. While nonimmigrant programs like R-1 focus on temporary religious service, related immigrant pathways (such as EB-4) face sunset risks and annual numerical limits.

Applicants and sponsoring organizations should continue to monitor USCIS guidance, as processing times and requirements can vary. The agency recommends consulting official resources for the latest details.

This update represents a practical step toward greater flexibility in a specialized visa category that supports America’s diverse religious landscape. Religious organizations and workers are encouraged to review the full details on the USCIS website.

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