M1 Visa

M1 Visa Guide: Key Things You Need to Know About the M1 Visa

Overview of the M1 Visa

The M1 visa is perfect for students seeking U.S. vocational training in areas like aviation, cooking, mechanics, and cosmetology.

M1 Visa Overview

The M1 visa allows international students to temporarily study vocational courses at U.S. junior or community colleges. To apply, students must:

  • Get accepted into a SEVP-certified school.
  • Obtain a SEVIS I-20 form.

Advantages of the M1 Visa

M1 Visa Benefits

  • Study and Live in the U.S.: Students can live and study in the U.S. for up to 3 years, with possible extensions.
  • Family Immigration Benefits: Eligible for family immigration benefits (M2 status) for spouse and minor children.
  • Unlimited Issuance: There is no annual limit on M1 visa issuance.

Key M1 Visa Details

  • The M1 visa permits students to live and study in the U.S.
  • Extensions are possible for bona fide students due to educational or medical reasons.
  • The maximum program completion time is 3 years.
  • Family members, including spouses and children, are eligible for M2 status; however, M2 dependents are not authorized to work.
  • M2 children can attend K-12 schools.

M1 Visa Extensions

  • Extensions are available for genuine students facing educational or medical delays.
  • Academic probation or suspension does not qualify for an extension.
  • Students must maintain their status during the extension period.

Family Immigration Benefits

  • Spouses and minor children are eligible for M2 status.
  • M2 dependents require a SEVIS Form I-20.
  • M2 dependents do not have work authorization.

Unlimited M1 Visas

  • There is no annual cap on M1 visa issuance, providing opportunities for numerous students.

Requirements for an M1 Visa

To qualify for an M1 visa, you must meet these five key conditions:

  1. Approved School Acceptance: Secure admission to an SEVP-certified school and obtain a properly completed Form I-20.
  2. Intent to Depart: Demonstrate ties to your home country to ensure visa non-overstay through documents such as:
    • Leases
    • Property ownership
    • Bank accounts
    • Family ties
    • Other relevant documents
  3. Financial Sufficiency: Provide evidence of funding for tuition and living expenses, including:
    • Bank statements
    • Investments
    • Dividends
    • Scholarships
    • Grants
  4. Academic Preparation: Show qualifications for your chosen courses through:
    • Standardized test scores
    • Certificates
    • Diplomas
    • Relevant education history
  5. Full Course Load: Maintain at least 12 semester or quarter hours per term at community or junior colleges, or the required load for alternative institutions. Exceptions apply for:
    • Completing course requirements
    • Medical or psychological reasons (with documentation)

If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at matif@atiflawfirm.com. We’re here to help!