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Yes, a qualifying nonprofit religious organization can sponsor more than one R-1 worker simultaneously. There is no cap on the number of R-1 visas issued each year, so multiple petitions can be filed and approved at the same time — as long as each worker and each role independently meets USCIS requirements. Every petition is evaluated on its own merits, so the organization will need to file a separate Form I-129 for each individual being sponsored.

An RFE simply means USCIS needs more information before making a decision — it’s not a denial. You’ll receive a notice outlining exactly what’s missing or unclear, and you’ll have a set deadline to respond. Common reasons include insufficient proof of the organization’s religious activities, vague job descriptions, or gaps in the worker’s membership history. Responding thoroughly and on time is critical. Working with an immigration attorney at this stage can make a significant difference, as a weak or incomplete RFE response can still result in a denial even after the initial petition was accepted.

The processing time for an EB-3 Immigrant Visa can vary depending on factors such as labor certification approval, USCIS processing times, visa availability, and the applicant’s country of chargeability. In many cases, the process can take several months to a few years from start to finish.

Recent policy shifts have led to more Requests for Evidence (RFEs), increased in-person interview requirements, and ongoing biometrics appointment backlogs at USCIS Application Support Centers. Depending on the category — family-based or employment-based — applicants may experience longer wait times than they did just a few years ago. Working with experienced green card attorneys helps ensure your application is thorough and properly documented, reducing the chances of unnecessary delays.

Yes — in many cases, there are alternative eligibility categories worth exploring even if your first-choice route has slowed down or become more complex. For example, immediate relatives of U.S. citizens typically move through the process faster than other preference categories, and options tied to employment sponsorship or asylum status may also apply depending on your situation. An immigration attorney can review your circumstances and help you identify the most viable path forward under current USCIS guidelines.

If your household income falls below the updated 2026 threshold — which requires sponsors to earn at least 125% of the federal poverty level for their household size — you still have options. You can bring in a joint sponsor who meets the income requirement independently, or in some cases, you may be able to count qualifying assets to make up the difference. The important thing is to document everything accurately, because financial errors are among the most common reasons USCIS issues a Request for Evidence, which can add months to your case. An immigration attorney can walk you through the best approach based on your specific financial situation.

Processing times in 2026 continue to vary depending on the visa category and the specific USCIS field office handling your case. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens — such as spouses and parents — generally move through the process faster than preference categories like adult children or siblings, which face annual visa caps. Chicago applicants should check current processing estimates directly on the USCIS website using their specific form number and office location, rather than relying on general timelines. Working with an experienced family immigration lawyer in Chicago can also help you avoid delays caused by incomplete paperwork or missed deadlines.