Religious workers in the United States, including ministers and people working in religious organizations, have a pathway to permanent residency through the EB-4 visa. This visa allows those in religious positions to apply for a Green Card and reside in the U.S. permanently. For those in religious roles, understanding the requirements and steps to apply for the Green Card is essential. In this blog I explain the process and criteria for religious workers seeking permanent residency in the US.

What is the EB-4 visa for religious workers?

The EB-4 visa is a special immigrant visa designated for specific groups, including religious workers. Individuals who work as ministers or in other religious roles may apply for this visa. The EB-4 visa allows religious workers to live and work permanently in the U.S. and eventually apply for U.S. citizenship if they wish. This visa is available to those who are sponsored by a U.S.-based religious organization.

Key requirements for religious workers

1. Religious Occupation

Applicants must work in a religious occupation, such as minister, pastor or religious teacher. This role must be full-time and applicants must have worked in this capacity for at least two years prior to applying.

2. Employer Sponsorship

The religious worker must be sponsored by a U.S.-based religious organization. The sponsoring organization must file a petition on behalf of the worker to initiate the process. In addition, it must demonstrate its legitimacy and the religious nature of the work.

3. Continuous employment in the religious role

Applicants must demonstrate that they have been continuously employed in their religious occupation for the two years preceding the application. The position must be related to the same religious denomination.

Application Process for Religious Workers

The process for obtaining a Green Card as a religious worker includes several steps. Below is a summary of the key steps:

1. File the Petition

The sponsoring religious organization must file Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er) or Special Immigrant, with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form is required to initiate the application process and must include documentation proving the applicant's qualifications and the legitimacy of the organization.

2. Adjustment of Status

Once the petition is approved, religious workers already in the U.S. on a temporary visa may apply for adjustment of status to obtain permanent residence. To do so, they must file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.nsular Processing

3. Consular Processing

For religious workers outside the U.S., consular processing is required. Once the I-360 petition is approved, the applicant must attend an interview at a U.S. consulate in their home country to finalize the process.

Religious workers play a vital role in many communities in the U.S., so if you are looking to immigrate to the U.S. the right way, I can help you. Write me and I will help you to make your process correct and effective.

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