The R-1 visa program is designed for religious organizations seeking to extend their teaching and benevolent work. This visa provides temporary entry and work authorization to members of bona fide religious organizations in the United States.
R-1 visas are issued to a variety of religious workers such as ministers, members of religious vocations, missionaries and religious instructors and will be employed at least on a part-time basis. R-1 visas are issued for an initial period of only 30 months and can be renewed once.