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EB-4 Visa

Path to Permanent Residency: A Guide to the EB-4 Religious Green Card

The EB-4 special immigrant green card presents a clear and transformative opportunity for religious workers who are prepared to establish permanent roots in the United States. For clergy and other special immigrant groups looking for stability and a future in the US, this green card offers a long-term solution in contrast to temporary work visas.

At the Law Office of Roxanne Rochester, we help applicants apply for EB-4 for clergy and other eligible religious workers, ensuring their journey toward residency is smooth, strategic, and successful.

What Is the EB-4 Visa Category?

The EB-4 visa category is part of the employment-based green card system, specifically designed for “special immigrants.” This includes religious workers, broadcasters, Afghan/Iraqi nationals who worked with the US government, and others. For faith-based workers, this visa allows them to transition from temporary service to permanent residence.

If you’re wondering how the EB-4 vs R-1 comparison works, the EB-4 is a green card (permanent), while the R-1 is a non-immigrant, temporary visa. For long-term goals, EB-4 is the way forward.

EB-4 Visa Category Explained: Who Can Apply for the EB-4 Religious Green Card?

Religious workers applying under the religious green card immigration track must meet the following criteria:

  • Join a bona fide nonprofit religious organization for a minimum of two years.
  • Be coming to work full-time in a religious occupation or vocation
  • Be sponsored by a US-based religious organization

Our office assists ministries, churches, mosques, temples, and other religious organizations in applying for EB-4 for clergy and key religious personnel.

EB-4 Application Process: What to Expect

We guide both religious organizations and individuals through the entire process:

Step 1: Employer Files Form I-360

The US religious employer submits Form I-360 to begin the petition for an EB-4 special immigrant green card.

Step 2: USCIS Review

USCIS will evaluate the organization’s eligibility, the applicant’s religious background, and the proposed job duties.

Step 3: Adjustment of Status (If in the US) or Consular Processing (If Abroad)

Following approval of the petition, the petitioner may apply for an adjustment of status or an international immigrant visa.

Step 4: Receive a Green Card

The applicant will be accepted as a lawful permanent resident of the United States upon approval.

EB-4 vs R-1 Comparison: Which One Fits You?

Many religious workers start their journey with an R-1 visa but later transition to an EB-4. While R-1 offers a temporary stay, the EB-4 visa category reveals its value as a long-term solution for those committed to religious service in the US. If you’re unsure which path fits best, our team can help evaluate your situation and chart the most effective strategy.

Why New Yorkers Trust Roxanne Rochester for Immigration Solutions?

Our firm has extensive experience in religious immigration. We work closely with churches and religious workers to help them successfully apply for EB-4 for clergy, navigate documentation, and maintain compliance. Our team simplifies even the most complex cases, because your mission deserves a permanent home. With years of experience handling religious green card immigration matters, we understand both the legal and spiritual nuances of this unique visa pathway.

FAQ's

Yes, if they meet all eligibility requirements and have worked with a US religious organization for at least two years.
Processing times vary based on USCIS caseload and visa availability, but generally range from 12 to 24 months.
Yes, the EB-4 category has annual limits, which can affect processing timelines and visa availability.
Yes. As dependents of the EB-4 principal applicant, spouses and unmarried children below the age of 21 may apply for green cards.

Secure Your Permanent Place to Serve

Whether you’re ready to move from an R-1 visa to a green card or just beginning your journey, the EB-4 special immigrant green card could be your next step. At the Law Office of Roxanne Rochester, we offer tailored support to help you live, work, and serve in the US permanently.

Ready to apply for EB-4 for clergy or religious workers? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Office

75 S Broadway, Suite 400, White Plains, NY 10601

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