An R1 visa is a visa that pertains to ministers or non-ministers in religious vocations and occupations that may come to the United States temporarily for the purpose of engaging in religious work. The spouse and unmarried children (under 21) of an R-1 visa holder are permitted to enter the United States. This is possible through the R-2 visa.
The unmarried children under the age of 21 and spouse of an R1 visa holder can apply for the R2 visa in order to accompany/join the R1 visa holder. However, there are some conditions pertaining to the R-2 Visa and its dependents.
Important Information About the R-2 Visa:
An R-1 visa holder (the religious worker) must be able to prove that they are able to financially support them in the United States.
R-2 visa dependents are able to study full time in the United States.
Dependents are NOT authorized for employment based off of the visa classification.
If the R-1 visa holder (religious worker) looses their lawful status, in turn the R-2 visa holder looses their status as well.
There is no limit on the number of visas issued under the R-2 category each year.
R-2 Visa Application Process:
When applying for an R-2 visa, a dependent must first wait for the U.S. employer of their spouse or parent, to begin the process through filing a petition on USCIS Form I-129.
After gaining approval by the USCIS, a dependent must make an appointment with a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country to apply for the visa. If you are already legally staying in the U.S., the employer may be able to submit a change of status application known as Form I-539. They can submit this form at the same time as they submit the I-129 visa petition. This allows for the dependent to switch to R status without having to leave the United States.
Documents Needed for An R-2 Visa Application:
The application made for an R-2 visa must be made on a State Department Form DS-160. The dependent will need to fill this out online before going to the U.S. consulate in person. If the dependent makes their application around the same time as the primary, R-1 visa holder, they will need to bring the following items:
1. Their current, valid passport.
2. Proof of relationship to the R-1 visa holder
-original copy of marriage certificates(spouse)
-original copy of birth certificate (for unmarried children under 21)
3. One passport style-photograph (for each applicant)
4. Documentation that proves your intention to return home country when
permitted stay is over
-home mortgage
-letter from employer stating job is being held open for applicant
5. Receipt for having paid the application fee described below
Costs and Fees For An R-2 Visa:
The employer will pay for the expenses related to the USCIS Form I-129. However, the person looking to receive the R-2 visa might have to pay the R-2 visa fees. These fees include the processing fee and reciprocity fees (if applicable).
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