What happens to the R-1 status if I am hired by another institution?

The R-1 visa, intended for religious workers, has specific rules regarding employment, so any change of institution requires special care.

Generally, this visa is granted based on a specific sponsoring employer, and the authorization to work in the United States is tied to that employment relationship. If you are hired by another institution, you cannot simply start the new job with your current status. The new institution must file a petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for it to be reviewed and, if approved, effect the transfer of your status to that new sponsor.

This process is similar to a change of employer and must strictly follow the procedures established by U.S. immigration laws. It is very important to highlight that working outside the conditions set forth in the original petition may result in violations of your immigration status, which in turn could affect future visa applications or immigration benefits.

Therefore, maintaining compliance and meeting legal requirements is fundamental to avoid complications. It is always recommended to seek qualified and specialized advice when making any employer transition to ensure all legal procedures are properly followed.

Furthermore, it is prudent to be cautious of advertisements and promises guaranteeing quick results, as the process of changing or extending immigration status can be complex and vary on a case-by-case basis. Remember that following U.S. immigration laws is essential to keep your status regular and avoid future problems.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.