Seeking to enter the United States for personal reasons, work purposes or to seek safety are all valid reasons to apply for a visa. There are different types of visas, and the right one for the individual depends on his or her long-term goals and intentions once arriving in Louisiana. Individuals wanting to come to this country for religious or ministerial purposes could be eligible for a specific type of visa. There are specific requirements for immigrant religious workers.
Who qualifies as an immigrant religious worker?
Certain applicants are eligible for a visa that will allow them to enter the country if they intend to do religious work once here. After the visa applicant files the paperwork, he or she will undergo an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. To qualify for a religious worker visa, an applicant must have done one of the following for at least two years:
- Continuously working in an occupation or vocation that the applicant expects to continue once in the United States
- Continuously working with a non-profit or with a religious denomination that the applicant is coming to work with in the United States
The specific type of religious visa one should apply for depends on qualifications and the type of work one will do.
Seeking legal help to navigate visa processes
The process of securing a visa to enter the United States is complex, regardless of the type of visa. It will be helpful to work with an experienced Louisiana attorney at each step of the immigration process to avoid complications and setbacks. An assessment of the case will help one understand what legal options are available.