R-2 Visa (R-1 dependent)

An R-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa granted to dependents—such as spouses and children—of R-1 visa holders, who are religious workers authorized to work temporarily in the U.S. for religious organizations. R-2 visa holders can usually live in the U.S. during the R-1 visa holder’s stay, but generally cannot work unless they obtain their own work authorization. This visa allows families to stay together while the primary religious worker fulfills their mission, with the ability to study or seek employment only if permitted under current regulations.