The M-1 Visa is a non-immigrant visa for international students who wish to pursue vocational or technical training in the United States. It is specially designed for individuals who want to study in vocational fields such as aviation, cooking, automotive technology. Marsan Akguc Law Firm is at your side to help you achieve your goals by providing professional guidance in your M-1 Visa applications.
What is an M-1 Visa?
The M-1 Visa was created for individuals who wish to study full-time in non-academic vocational programs. This visa allows students to participate in technical or vocational training programs in the United States. The right to work during the study period is limited and individuals are expected to return to their home country upon completion of the program.
Key Features of the M-1 Visa
- Vocational Education: Possibility to train in technical fields such as business administration, aviation, cooking, cosmetics.
- Temporary Residence: Depending on the duration of study, usually up to 1 year.
- Work Prohibition: There is no work permit during the study period; you can only work within certain internship programs.
- Family Reunification: Spouse and children under the age of 21 can be in the U.S. on an M-2 Visa.
Who Can Apply for an M-1 Visa?
To obtain an M-1 Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements
- Acceptance from Educational Institution
- You must be admitted full-time to an accredited vocational training program in the USA.
- The educational institution must be recognized by the Student and Exchange Program (SEVP).
- English Proficiency
- You must demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction or participate in a language training program.
- Financial Qualification
- You must prove that you have sufficient financial resources to cover the costs of study and living expenses.
- You can submit bank statements, scholarship documents or sponsorship letters.
- Intention to Return
- You must prove your intention to return to your home country after completing the study program, for example through family ties or job opportunities.
M-1 Visa Application Process
Marsan Akguc Law Office is with you at every stage of your application process. Here are the steps of M-1 Visa application:
- Get an Acceptance Letter: After you receive acceptance from a SEVP-approved educational institution, you will receive the I-20 form.
- Complete the DS-160 Form: Complete the DS-160, the U.S. Department of State’s online application form. The form includes detailed information about personal information, educational plans, and financial status.
- Pay SEVIS Fee: The I-901 SEVIS fee must be paid and the payment receipt must be kept.
- Pay the Visa Application Fee and Make an Appointment: After paying the visa application fee, schedule an interview appointment at the nearest US Consulate or Embassy.
- Attend the Visa Interview: Present the following documents during the consular interview:
- Valid passport
- DS-160 confirmation page
- SEVIS I-901 payment receipt
- I-20 Form
- Financial documents
- English language proficiency certificates
- Documentation supporting your educational background and intent to return.
- Visa Result and Travel: If the application is approved, the visa sticker is placed in your passport and you can enter the US.
Frequently Asked Questions
Marsan Akguc Law Firm guides you in your M-1 Visa applications with its expert staff. We are with you throughout the entire process from the preparation of documents to the visa interview. Contact us to achieve your vocational education goals!
No, M-1 Visa holders are not authorized to work in the US. However, you may receive limited work authorization under certain internship programs.
You must return to your country within 60 days after the completion of your study program. However, you can apply for a change of status.
The M-1 Visa covers training programs in vocational fields such as business administration, aviation, cookery, cosmetology, automotive technology.
Your visa is usually valid for 1 year depending on the duration of your study program and can be extended by 1 Year extensions up to a maximum of 3 years and 30 days.
Yes, your spouse and children under the age of 21 can accompany you by obtaining an M-2 Visa.
- 2901 West Coast Hwy Suite 200 Newport Beach, CA 92663
- info@marsanakguclaw.com
- +1 (949) 849-7777