If you’re one of those students who have secured admission in the USA to a non-academic or vocational study program and are confused about what visa you should go for? Don’t worry, you are at the right place. If you’re going for a non-academic or vocational study program, you must apply for an M-1 visa. In this blog, you will learn everything you need to know about an M-1 visa.
Table of Contents:
- What is a M-1 Visa?
- M-1 Visa Requirements
- How to Apply for an M-1 Visa?
- M-1 Visa vs F-1 Visa
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is a M-1 Visa?
An M-1 visa is a student visa in the USA given to international students coming to study vocational or nonacademic programs. Junior or community colleges commonly offer these programs. To obtain an M-1 visa, you must have the I-20 Form signed by the US embassy or consulate.
M-1 Visa Requirements
To be eligible for an M-1 visa to USA, you must fulfill the following requirements:
- Program: You must be enrolled in an “academic” educational program, a language training program, or a vocational program.
- SEVP Approved: Your school must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitors Program (SEVP) and you should be enrolled as a full-time student at the approved university.
- English proficiency: Must know the English language or enrolled in courses leading to English proficiency.
- Proof of Funds: Must have funds to support themselves during the entire duration of the program.
- Residency: You must maintain a residence abroad without giving it up.
How to Apply for an M-1 Visa?
There are several steps to apply for an M-1 visa; they are:
Step 1: I-20 Form
Get your I-20 Form from your university. Your I-20 form proves that you have been legally enrolled in a program in the USA.
Step 2: Fill out your DS-160 Form
Once you receive your I-20 Form, you can fill out your DS-160 form. This form contains all your personal information.
Step 3: Pay the M-1 visa application fee
Pay the M-1 visa application fee of $185. The fee is non-refundable, so you won’t get the application fee back if you don’t get your visa approved.
Step 4: Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee of $350. You will receive a unique SEVIS number, which is recorded in the US government database. Save the fee receipt for your visa appointment.
Step 5: Schedule an appointment for your visa interview
Find a visa slot and appear for your M-1 visa interview with all the required documents. Your interview questions will typically be about your intentions for going to the USA, your financial situation, your ties to your home country, and more.
M-1 Visa vs F-1 Visa
An M-1 Visa is given to vocational or other recognized nonacademic programs, while an F-1 visa is granted for academic programs. The difference between M-1 visa vs F-1 visa is:
| Particulars | M-1 Visa | F-1 Visa |
| Proof of Funds | Must show proof of funds for the entire duration of the program | Any source of proof of funds is acceptable. Proof is required for the first year of the program when applying for an I-20 form |
| Employment | Not allowed to work during the program. After the program, can work for 6 months with an EAD in a practical training program | A work permit is required for off-campus employment from the university and/or USCIS. On-campus employment doesn’t require a work permit |
| Grace Period | A 30-day grace period is given to departing the USA | A 60-day grace period is given to departing the USA |
| Extension | Can request for program extension up to 3 years | Extension available for valid academic reasons |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I enter the USA 2 months before the joining date on an M-1 visa?
You can enter the USA up to 30 days before the report or start date of the program and it should arrive no later than the start of your classes.
Can I work on an M-1 visa?
M-1 visa holders are not allowed to work during their program. After you have completed your program, you can be a part of a practical training program. Students must receive an EAD and can only work for a maximum of 6 months.
How long is an M-1 visa valid?
The M-1 visa is a non-immigrant permit valid only for one year. However, you can apply for an extension of up to three years.
What are the documents required for an M-1 visa?
A valid passport, DS-160 form, I-20 form, academic transcripts, proof of funds, and ties to your home country are some documents required for an M-1 visa.
Can I bring my family on a M-1 visa?
You can bring your spouse and unmarried children under 21 on an M-2 visa. However, your spouse cannot work on their M-2 visa.
What is a Med-1 Visa?
A Med-1 visa is given to those foreigners whose purpose is to get medical treatment in an established and recognized hospital or treatment center in India.
