US govt reduces mandatory out-of-country waiting period for religious visa: What exactly is a religious visa and who gets it | - The Times of India
- Posted on January 16, 2026
- By The Times of India
- 6 Views
US govt reduces mandatory out-of-country waiting period for religious visa: What exactly is a religious visa and who gets it | - The Times of India
US immigration policy has seen a rare visa liberalization for religious workers. The Trump administration has removed a one-year mandatory waiting period outside the US for R-1 visa holders after their initial five-year stay expires. This change aims to prevent staffing gaps in religious institutions and offers greater flexibility for clergy.