EB-4 Special Immigrants and Religious Workers

Immigration » Immigration resources » EB-4 and religious workers

The EB-4 category covers certain special immigrants. The best known group is religious workers, but the category also includes other groups defined by law.

Religious workers

• Ministers: people authorized to conduct religious worship and perform duties usually performed by a member of the clergy.
• Other religious workers: professionals and non-professionals who work in a religious vocation or occupation for a qualifying nonprofit religious organization.

Core requirements

• Membership in the same religious denomination for at least two years before filing.
• A qualifying job offer from a religious organization.
• Full-time work, with proof that the organization can pay or support the worker.
• Evidence of the organization’s tax-exempt status and religious nature.
• For non-minister religious workers, the availability of this category has depended on legislative authorization that is renewed from time to time, so we confirm the current rule before filing.

Process

• The organization or worker files Form I-360 as a special immigrant petition.
• USCIS may conduct a site inspection of the organization.
• After approval, the worker and family apply for adjustment of status or consular processing when a visa number is available.

Related temporary option

Many religious workers first come on an R-1 visa. See R-1 religious worker visa.

Other special immigrant groups

Other special immigrant categories exist, such as certain translators and some other limited groups. Eligibility depends on the specific law. If you think you may qualify, contact us to review.

Related guides

• R-1 religious worker visa
• Visa Bulletin
• Adjustment of status
• Employment-based green cards

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This page is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration rules, policies and fees change often. Last updated: November 2026.