Introduction to the M1 Visa
The M1 visa is a non-immigrant (temporary) visa designed for students seeking vocational training in the United States. Typically, these courses are offered at junior or community colleges. To start the process, you must apply and be accepted by a school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitors Program (SEVP). Once accepted, the school will provide you with a Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) I-20 form, which you need to gain admission into the United States.
Benefits of the M1 Visa
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Study and Live in the United States
- The M1 visa allows you to live and study in the U.S.
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Possible Extensions
- Extensions can be granted under certain circumstances, with a maximum program duration of three years. Extensions are allowed if you are a bona fide student and the delay is due to educational or medical reasons (excluding academic probation and suspension).
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Family Immigration Benefits
- Your spouse and minor children can accompany you under M2 status. M2 children may attend K-12 schools, but M2 dependents are not allowed to work in the U.S.
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No Annual Cap
- There is no maximum limit on the number of M1 visas issued each year.
M1 Visa Requirements
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Acceptance at an Approved School
- You must be accepted to an SEVP-certified school and be issued Form I-20.
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Intent to Depart the U.S. After Studies
- You must demonstrate your intention to return to your home country after completing your studies. Evidence can include property ownership, bank accounts, family ties, and other ties to your home country.
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Sufficient Financial Resources
- You must prove you have the funds to support yourself and pay for your tuition throughout your stay in the U.S. This can be shown through bank statements, scholarships, or other financial documents.
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Preparedness for Course of Study
- You need to show you are qualified to undertake the vocational program, evidenced by test scores, certificates, diplomas, and other academic credentials.
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Full Course of Study
- You must maintain a full course load of at least twelve semester or quarter hours per academic term unless medically or psychologically unable to do so.
M1 Visa Process
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Apply to the School and Obtain the I-20 Form
- Receive a SEVIS I-20 form, which includes your biographical information and details about your school, program, and expenses.
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Complete Form DS-160
- Fill out the Nonimmigrant Visa Application form and typically upload a photo.
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Document Gathering for Interview
- Gather necessary documents including proof of visa fee payment, DS-160 confirmation page, valid passport, academic transcripts, standardized test scores, evidence of intent to leave the U.S., and proof of financial support.
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Visa Interview
- Attend an interview with a consular officer who will determine your eligibility for the M1 visa. Fingerprints will be scanned at a biometrics appointment.
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Presenting at Port of Entry
- Upon arrival at a U.S. port of entry, present your passport, visa, and Form I-20 to a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) official, who will decide if you should be admitted to the U.S. You will receive an admission stamp or Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
M1 Employment
You may work in temporary employment for practical training after completing your studies, provided the employment is related to your field of study and not available in your home country. Apply for a work authorization document (EAD) no more than 90 days before the program end date, with employment authorization granted for one month for each four months of full-time study completed, up to a maximum of six months.
M1 Change of Status
You can change your status to another non-immigrant visa such as the H-1B or O1 visa. The M1 visa is a single intent visa, so you cannot enter the U.S. with the intent of adjusting status to a green card, but you may apply for an employment-based visa if your initial intention was not to adjust status.
Conclusion
The M1 visa is a specialized visa that allows you to pursue vocational training in the United States. This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of the M1 visa benefits, requirements, and process. If you have further questions or need assistance, please contact Sari Law Firm.