SERVING YOUR CALLING IN THE United States
Whether you’re a ministry leader seeking to bring a faithful worker to serve your community, or you’re a religious worker called to share your vocation in the U.S., we’re here to help you fulfill your mission—legally and with peace of mind.
At Burgos Law, we help churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, and religious nonprofits sponsor workers through the R-1 visa and EB-4 green card process. We understand that immigration is more than paperwork—it’s about enabling service, strengthening faith communities, and honoring your calling.
HOW WE SERVE Ministries and Religious Workers
At Burgos Law, we walk alongside you throughout the process—guiding you through the complex legal requirements with compassion, transparency, and deep respect for your mission.
For religious organizations, we help you:
- Determine the best visa path (R-1 vs. EB-4)
- Prepare all required documentation, including proof of tax-exempt status, denominational affiliation, and financial support
- Anticipate USCIS site visits and compliance requirements
- Sponsor dependents and navigate work and travel permissions
For religious workers, we help you:
- Understand your eligibility and visa options
- Plan for transitions—from temporary R-1 to green card
- Assist your spouse and children with their visas or green card applications
WE'VE HELPED With
Pastors, Priests, and Ministers
Missionaries and Evangelists
Nuns and Monks
Liturgical music leaders and religious education directors
Let’s Move Forward in Faith—Together
Immigration is more than a process—it’s a bridge to continue your ministry and expand your impact. We consider it an honor to help religious workers and organizations serve their communities here in the U.S.
Schedule a Strategy Session today to learn how we can help bring your mission to life.
Administrative or Support staff
WHAT IS THE R-1 Religious Worker Visa
The R-1 visa is for ministers and other religious workers who are coming to the U.S. temporarily to work for a bona fide nonprofit religious organization.
Your religious worker may qualify if:
- They’ve been a member of your denomination for at least 2 years
- They are coming to serve as a minister, religious vocation worker (like a nun, monk, or missionary), or in a religious occupation (such as a teacher or music minister)
- They will work at least 20 hours per week
- You can demonstrate that they’ll be financially supported through salary, stipends, housing, or other means
How long is it valid?
The initial R-1 visa is granted for up to 30 months and can be extended for a total stay of 5 years.
WHAT IS THE EB-4 GREEN CARD FOR Religious Workers?
If your ministry or organization seeks to retain a religious worker long-term, the EB-4 immigrant visa (green card) may be the next step. This is available to religious workers who have already served in a qualifying role for at least two years and wish to continue that work in the U.S. permanently.
Your religious worker may qualify if:
- They have served in a religious vocation or occupation full-time for at least 2 years
- You’re offering a permanent, full-time position to continue that same work
- Your organization is a nonprofit religious entity recognized under U.S. law
HOW WE SERVE MINISTRIES AND Religious Workers
At Burgos Law, we walk alongside you throughout the process—guiding you through the complex legal requirements with compassion, transparency, and deep respect for your mission.
For religious organizations, we help you:
- Determine the best visa path (R-1 vs. EB-4)
- Prepare all required documentation, including proof of tax-exempt status, denominational affiliation, and financial support
- Anticipate USCIS site visits and compliance requirements
- Sponsor dependents and navigate work and travel permissions
For religious workers, we help you:
- Understand your eligibility and visa options
- Plan for transitions—from temporary R-1 to green card
- Assist your spouse and children with their visas or green card applications
FAQs
Can we sponsor someone who is not a minister?
Yes. The R-1 covers more than just ordained clergy. They include other religious vocations and occupations—such as missionaries, religious teachers, music ministers, members of the production/media team, and more.
The key question is: Can the person’s duties be clearly tied to religious functions?If the answer is yes—and the role supports your faith-based mission in a meaningful way—they may be eligible. We’ll work with you to clearly explain the connection to USCIS and strengthen your case.
Can we sponsor a volunteer?
R-1 and EB-4 categories are generally for compensated religious work. Purely volunteer positions usually do not qualify.
What if USCIS does a site visit?
USCIS may visit your place of worship or facility before or after approving an R-1 petition. We help ensure you’re fully prepared and compliant.
How long does this process take?
R-1 visas can take 4–8 months (with expedited options in some cases). EB-4 timelines vary based on priority date backlogs and processing times.
Can the worker apply for a green card while on an R-1 visa?
Yes. Many ministries start with the R-1 to meet an urgent need and then move to the EB-4 green card when the worker is eligible.
Does the R-1 have to obtain a green card through EB-4?
Not necessarily. While the EB-4 is a common path to permanent residence for R-1 workers, it’s not the only option—and it’s not always the fastest or most strategic one.
Depending on your situation, there may be other green card categories that are a better fit, such as:
- Family-based immigration (e.g., marriage to a U.S. citizen)
- Other Employment-based visas
- Special humanitarian programs
At Burgos Law, we take the time to review your full immigration history and personal goals so we can recommend the best path forward. Our goal is not just to get you a green card—but to do it in a way that’s efficient, legally sound, and aligned with your mission.