Application for Permanent Residence Visa

I-360

The Temple petitions for permanent Visa for the Priest after making sure that he is compatible with the administration and the Devotee population. It can be done any time. However, usually done at the end of fourth year. The advantage of permanent visa is that the Priest feel secure, feels part of the Temple community, and does not worry about frequent of renewal of visa. However, the disadvantages are that the Priest is free to move around anywhere in the country. If he is not dedicated to your institution, he might find a greener pasture or work independently in competition to your Temple's services. Written or verbal understanding is of some benefit. However, at the end it depends on the person.

The steps involved in the application of permanent Visa are similar to that of Temporary visa.

1. I-360 application.
2. Letter to Dept. of Justice about yourself and the need for the services of the Priest in your institution and how the devotees are benefited.
3. Check for the proper amount
4. Certificate of incorporation and charter
5. Letter from IRS exempting from taxes.
6. Financial statements.
7. Duties of Priest.
8. Qualifications of the Priest. (Translations of certificates may be necessary)
9. Affidavit of support
10. Copy of R-1 status approval (Previous)
11. Copy of R-1 renewal, if any.
12. Copy of the Passport.
If you are sponsoring the husband and wife, you need to include:
13 Copy of Spouse' passport. Spouse's R-2 approval
14. Birth Certificate of husband and wife.
15. Marriage certificate

These days it takes over a year to process this application.

Website of www.ins.gov can be of great help. It will also give the latest fees.