American Vocational Training (M1) Visa Application Guide

The American Vocational Training (M1) visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows students to study at a vocational or technical school in the United States. The M1 visa is designed for students who are pursuing technical or vocational training, including mechanic schools, culinary schools, beauty schools, and more. In this article, we will provide an overview of the M1 visa application process.

Step 1: Find a Vocational School in the United States

The first step in the M1 visa application process is to find a vocational or technical school in the United States. The school must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), which is part of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

You can search for SEVP-approved schools on the DHS website, or you can contact the school directly to ask if they are approved. Once you have identified a school, you should contact the school’s designated school official (DSO) to discuss the application process and any requirements that the school may have.

Step 2: Apply to the School and Receive an I-20 Form

Once you have identified a school, you will need to apply to the school and be accepted. The school will then send you an I-20 form, which is a certificate of eligibility for non-immigrant student status. You will need the I-20 form to apply for the M1 visa.

Step 3: Pay the SEVIS Fee

Before you can apply for the M1 visa, you will need to pay the SEVIS fee. The SEVIS fee is a fee that all non-immigrant students must pay to help fund the SEVP program.

You can pay the SEVIS fee online or by mail. To pay online, go to the DHS website and follow the instructions. To pay by mail, complete the I-901 form and mail it with your payment to the address provided on the form. You should keep a copy of your SEVIS fee receipt as proof of payment.

Step 4: Complete the Online Visa Application Form (DS-160)

Once you have paid the SEVIS fee, you can complete the online visa application form (DS-160). The DS-160 form is available on the Department of State website.

The DS-160 form will ask for your personal information, information about your travel plans, and information about your intended school and program of study. You will also need to upload a photo with your application.

Step 5: Schedule a Visa Interview

After you have completed the DS-160 form, you will need to schedule a visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

You can schedule an appointment online or by phone. You should schedule your appointment as soon as possible, as wait times for visa interviews can be several weeks or even months.

Step 6: Attend the Visa Interview

On the day of your visa interview, you should arrive at the embassy or consulate early. You will need to bring your passport, your I-20 form, your SEVIS fee receipt, and any other documentation that the embassy or consulate may require.

During the interview, the consular officer will ask you questions about your intended school and program of study, your financial resources, and your ties to your home country. If the officer approves your application, your passport will be returned to you with the M1 visa stamped inside.

FAQs

Q: How long does the M1 visa application process take?

A: The M1 visa application process can take several weeks or even months, depending on the embassy or consulate and the time of year.

Q: Can I apply for the M1 visa if I am already in the United States?

A: No, the M1 visa is for students who are seeking to study at a vocational or technical school in the United States, and it cannot be used to change your status if you are already in the United States on a different visa.

Q: Can I work while studying on the M1 visa?

A: No, students on the M1 visa are not allowed to work off-campus while studying.

Q: Can I bring my family with me on the M1 visa?

A: Family members cannot accompany you on the M1 visa, but they may be able to apply for a B2 tourist visa to visit you in the United States.