Extension of nonimmigrant status for religious workers caught in long backlogs for lawful permanent residence

(a) In general Section 214(a)(2) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1184(a)(2)) is amended by adding at the end the following: (C) Notwithstanding section 101(a)(15)(R)(ii), an alien may apply for, and the Secretary of Homeland Security may grant, an extension of nonimmigrant status under section 101(a)(15)(R) until such alien’s application for adjustment of status or an immigrant visa has been processed and a decision has been made on such application if the alien— (i) is the principal or derivative beneficiary of an immigrant petition filed pursuant to section 204(a) for a preference status under section 203(b)(4); and (ii) is eligible to be granted such immigrant status absent the application of the numerical limitations under sections 201, 202, and 203.. (b) Conforming amendment Section 101(a)(15)(R)(ii) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(R)(ii)) is amended by inserting, except as provided in section 214(a)(2)(C), after 5 years.