An R2 visa may be obtained by a spouse and minor children of an R1 visa holder. An R2 visa holder may remain in the US as long as the R-1 visa holder remains in legal status. An R2 visa holder may change his or her status in the US.
Employment
An R2 visa holder may not accept employment. He or she must obtain a work visa.
Study
An R2 visa holder may engage in full or part time study.
Spouse and children of R1 visa holders who wish to visit or accompany the R1 visa holder to the United States.
The religious worker’s spouse and unmarried children under twenty-one years of age are entitled to the same nonimmigrant classification and length of stay as the religious worker, if the religious worker will be employed and residing primarily in the United States, and if the spouse and unmarried minor children are accompanying or following to join the religious worker in the United States. Neither the spouse nor any child may accept employment while in the United States in R2 nonimmigrant status.
| Date | Title | Details |
|---|---|---|
| January 15, 2025 | USCIS Policy Manual | This section provides detailed guidance on the general requirements for R nonimmigrant religious workers and their dependents. |
| February 14, 2024 | Department of State's Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM) | This section outlines the policies and procedures related to the issuance of R-2 visas to eligible family members of R-1 visa holders. |
