Who qualifies for R-1 (Religious worker) status?
1. Has been a member of a religious denomination; 2. For the two years immediately preceding an application; 3. Will perform work in the United States as: a.) A minister; b.) In a professional capacity; c.) In a religious vocational occupation; d.) To work in a religious occupation; or e.) To work in a religious vocation; and 4. For the same denomination. Q: What qualifies as a religious denomination? A: Most generally known religious denominations will qualify. The law requires that a religious denomination normally will have: 1.) An ecclesiastical government; 2.) A recognized creed and form of worship; 3.) A formal code of doctrine and discipline; 4.) Religious services and ceremonies; 5.) Established places of worship; and 6.) Religious congregations. Q: Does an interdenominational religious organization qualify as a “denomination?” A: Such organizations will be treated as a religious denomination if they are tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
