M-1 is a temporary non-immigrant non-academic or vocational student visa
The M-1 visa (Vocational Student) category includes students in vocational or other nonacademic programs, other than language training.
Unlike the F1 and J1 visas which allow for the possibility of employment in the US during your stay, the M1 Visa does not.
M-1 students may engage in practical training only after they have completed their studies.
Eligibility Requirements
You must be enrolled in a vocational program
- Your school must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitors Program, Immigration & Customs Enforcement
- You must be enrolled as a full-time student at the institution
- You must be proficient in English or be enrolled in courses leading to English proficiency
- You must have sufficient funds available for self-support during the entire proposed course of study
- You must maintain a residence abroad which you have no intention of giving up.
Application and Authorization Process
The Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) has a list of vocational and non-degree bearing institutions where M1 students are accepted. To be eligible to apply for the M1 visa, you need to apply and get admission at one of these institutions. You might have a list of preferred schools you would like to go to, but before you apply, make sure that they qualify to make you eligible for the M1 visa. After you get accepted, the school will register you into the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and give you a Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.
- Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and keep the receipt
- Submit the DS-160 Form online
- Apply for the visa at a U.S. embassy and pay the application fee.
You should schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but be aware that it may be more difficult to qualify for a visa outside of the country where you live.
Time duration for approval
Varies by location
Forms required to be submitted for this application
- Form I-20
- Form DS-160
- Form DS-157 for all males aged 16-45
Information that you will have to provide
- You will have to upload a photograph of yourself while completing the DS-160 form
- Bring a print out of the application form confirmation page to the interview
How we can help
Our attorneys are available to consult with applicants to discuss their options and responsibilities. To start the process:
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