The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced a new interim final rule to help religious organizations.
This rule allows thousands of religious workers—such as priests, nuns, and rabbis—who previously had to stay outside the U.S. before returning, to resume their essential services more quickly.
The main change is that while R-1 religious workers must still leave the U.S. after their stay, there is no longer a minimum time they must remain abroad before returning in R-1 status.
This reduces delays, providing stability for faith-based communities and minimizing disruptions in religious services.
Supporting Faith Communities
The rule supports President Trump’s Executive Order 14205, which established the White House Faith Office.
It removes the requirement that R-1 religious workers spend one year outside the U.S. after reaching their maximum five-year stay.
By eliminating this wait, religious organizations can continue their work without losing trusted clergy or non-ministerial workers.
The change is especially important as the EB-4 visa demand for special immigrants, including religious workers, has historically exceeded supply, leading to long delays.
EB-4 Visa and Sunset Dates
The EB-4 visa is for special immigrants, including religious workers, certain broadcasters, and licensed physicians.
In recent years, delays in the EB-4 category have caused many religious workers to exceed their R-1 maximum stay, creating staffing gaps in faith-based organizations.
The new rule removes the one-year foreign residency requirement, helping organizations keep their religious staff active in the U.S.
Additionally, under H.R. 5371, the EB-4 non-minister religious worker program has been extended until January 30, 2026, allowing these workers and their families to apply for permanent residency.
This sunset date does not affect ministers and their families, who can continue without limitation.
Next Steps
The interim final rule is effective immediately, but USCIS is inviting public comments within 60 days of publication in the Federal Register.
This ensures that stakeholders can provide input while the new system is implemented.
