1. What are the requirements for an M-1 visa?

In order to obtain an M-1 visa, the applicant must:
-Be enrolled in a full-time, nonacademic or vocational study program in an accredited US school or institution
-Have a residence abroad with no immediate intention of abandoning it
-Have sufficient funds to cover the cost of tuition and living expenses for the duration of their program
-Be proficient in English or be enrolled in courses leading to proficiency
-Not intend to work in the US and not be engaged in any business activities for profit while in the US.

2. How long is an M-1 visa valid?

An M-1 visa is generally valid for the length of the program of study, plus a period of up to 30 days. The maximum amount of time an M-1 visa holder can remain in the U.S. is one year.

3. What type of student qualifies for an M-1 visa?

An M-1 visa is for nonimmigrant students pursuing a full course of study in vocational or other non-academic programs, other than language training. This includes, but is not limited to, programs in aviation, mechanics, technical and vocational studies.

4. What documents are needed for an M-1 visa application?

The required documents for an M-1 visa application include:
* A valid passport
* A completed nonimmigrant visa application (Form DS-160)
* One 2-inch by 2-inch photograph that meets the requirements for visa photos
* Evidence of your financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses
* A Certificate of Eligibility (Form I-20) issued by the school you plan to attend
* An official or unofficial transcript, from all post-secondary institutions attended
* Proof of English language proficiency
* Evidence of ties to your home country
* Evidence of intent to depart the U.S. upon completion of your studies

5. Are there any specific financial requirements for an M-1 visa application?

Yes, applicants for an M-1 visa must demonstrate that they have enough money to cover their tuition, living expenses while in the U.S., and return transportation. Depending on the country, the amount of money required to meet these requirements will vary. Additionally, applicants may be asked to show proof of financial support from a sponsor.

6. What is the fee for an M-1 visa application?

The filing fee for an M-1 student visa application is $160. This is in addition to the $350 SEVIS fee, which is a mandatory fee that must be paid before the visa application can be processed.

7. How long does it take to receive an M-1 visa?

The processing time for M-1 visa applications varies from case to case, depending on the country from which you are applying. Generally, it takes 4-6 weeks to receive an M-1 visa.

8. Can I transfer from an F-1 to an M-1 visa?

Yes, you can transfer from an F-1 visa to an M-1 visa. However, you must meet certain requirements and go through the necessary steps to ensure the transfer is successful.

9. Can I work while on an M-1 visa?

Yes, you can work while on an M-1 visa, but only under certain conditions. You must receive authorization from the Designated School Official (DSO) and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Additionally, the job must be related to your area of study, and you can only work a maximum of 20 hours per week while school is in session.

10. How long can I stay in the US on an M-1 visa?

For a period of time determined by Immigration Customs and Enforcement (ICE) but typically no more than 1 year.

11. Are there any restrictions on the type of studies I can pursue?

No, there are no restrictions on the type of studies you can pursue. You can pursue any type of studies that interests you.

12. Do I have to register with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after entering the US with a vocational student visa?

No, you do not have to register with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after entering the US with a vocational student visa. However, you will need to maintain valid visa status while in the US and follow certain guidelines set forth by the US Department of Homeland Security.

13. Are there any special requirements for travel outside the US during my M-1 visa period?

Yes. You must have a valid passport from your home country, a valid M-1 visa, and a valid I-20 form with an endorsed travel signature. You must also obtain a Form I-94 from the US Embassy or Consulate in your home country before you leave for the US, and upon returning to the US.

14. How do I extend my stay on my M-1 visa?

To extend your stay on an M-1 visa, you must submit a Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before your authorized stay expires. You must provide USCIS with evidence of your continued eligibility for the M-1 visa, such as proof of enrollment in your program and recent grades. You must also pay the filing fee for the I-539. Once you have submitted the form, USCIS will review it and you will be notified of their decision.

15. Are there any restrictions on concurrent enrollment in other types of programs while on an M-1 visa?

Yes, there are restrictions on concurrent enrollment in other types of programs while on an M-1 visa. M-1 visa holders may not enroll in other academic programs, such as a degree program, while they are in the United States unless they receive prior authorization from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. Additionally, students cannot engage in any form of employment while they are on an M-1 visa.

16. What happens if I fail to maintain my legal status while in the US on my M-1 visa?

If you fail to maintain your legal status while in the US on an M-1 visa, you may be subject to removal proceedings and/or denied re-entry into the US. Additionally, you may be subject to fines and other penalties for violation of US immigration laws and regulations.

17. Can I change my status from an M-1 visa to another type of nonimmigrant visa while in the US?

Yes, you can change your status from an M-1 visa to another type of nonimmigrant visa while in the US. The process of changing your nonimmigrant status in the United States is called “change of status” and in order to do so you must file Form I-539, Application to Change Nonimmigrant Status. Depending on the type of visa you are applying for there may be additional forms or documents that you will need to submit. You should consult an immigration attorney before applying for a change of status.

18. Can I apply for a green card while in the US on my M-1 visa?

No, you cannot apply for a green card while in the US on an M-1 visa. You must first leave the US and apply through the normal process before you can be considered for a green card.

19. Can my dependents accompany me to the US while on an M-1 visa?

No, dependents are not allowed to accompany you on an M-1 visa. Dependents would need to obtain their own visa type in order to accompany you.

20. Are there any special requirements if I plan to change schools or programs while in the US on my M-1 visa?

Yes. If you decide to change schools or programs while in the United States on your M-1 visa, you must first obtain permission from USCIS by filing a Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. This form must be submitted before your current I-20 expires. Furthermore, you may be required to present additional evidence to the USCIS adjudicating officer that supports your request for a change in educational institution or program. You should consult with an immigration attorney for additional information about the process of obtaining permission to change schools or programs.