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Apply for an M-1 Visa

Are you looking to study a vocational or technical program in the U.S.? The M-1 visa might be your path to success. The M-1 visa is designed specifically for international students who want to pursue non-academic or vocational training at U.S. institutions.

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Vocational student in workshop

What Is the M-1 Visa?

The M-1 visa is a nonimmigrant student visa for individuals enrolled in vocational or technical programs in the United States. Unlike the F-1 visa, which is intended for academic studies, the M-1 visa is tailored for hands-on training and education in fields like mechanical studies, culinary arts, cosmetology, and other skilled trades.

Key Benefits of the M-1 Visa:

  • Access to U.S. vocational and technical institutions
  • Stay in the U.S. for the duration of your training program
  • Bring eligible dependents on an M-2 visa

How to Apply for an M-1 Visa

Follow these steps to successfully apply for an M-1 visa:

  1. 1

    Get Accepted to a SEVP-Approved School

    First, apply and gain admission to an SEVP-certified vocational or technical school in the U.S. Upon acceptance, you will receive Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status).

  2. 2

    Pay the SEVIS Fee

    Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee online. Keep the confirmation, as you'll need it for your visa interview.

  3. 3

    Complete the DS-160 Form

    Fill out Form DS-160, the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. Upload a passport-size photo and print the confirmation page.

  4. 4

    Schedule and Attend the Visa Interview

    Book your interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Bring:

    • A valid passport
    • Form I-20
    • DS-160 confirmation page
    • SEVIS fee receipt
    • Financial evidence
    • Educational transcripts
    • Proof of ties to your home country
  5. 5

    Receive Your Visa

    If approved, your M-1 visa will be stamped in your passport. You can then enter the U.S. up to 30 days before your program start date.

Student preparing visa application

M-1 vs. F-1 Visa: What's the Difference?

There are two main types of student visas:

M-1 Visa:

  • Type of Study:

    Vocational or technical programs only.

  • Work Authorization:

    Very limited—only allowed for practical training after the program ends.

  • Change of Status:

    More restricted; fewer options to switch to another visa type.

  • Visa Duration:

    Valid for the length of the program plus 30 days.

F-1 Visa:

  • Type of Study:

    Academic programs (K-12, high school, college, university).

  • Work Authorization:

    Allows on-campus work and limited off-campus opportunities (e.g., CPT and OPT).

  • Change of Status:

    More flexible; easier to switch to other visa types or extend status.

  • Visa Duration:

    Duration of status (D/S)—allows students to stay as long as they maintain full-time enrollment and follow rules.

M-1 Visa Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for an M-1 visa, you must:

  • Be accepted by a U.S. vocational school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)
  • Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover your tuition and living expenses
  • Prove ties to your home country and intent to return after your studies
  • Maintain a residence abroad you do not intend to abandon
  • Be proficient in English or enrolled in English language training

M-1 Visa Restrictions and Conditions

The M-1 visa comes with specific rules:

  • No on-campus or off-campus employment is allowed (except for practical training after program completion)
  • You cannot change to F-1 status while in the U.S. (except applying to change to F-1, which is a more restrictive process and requires USCIS approval)
  • Extensions are possible but limited (see below)
  • You must maintain a full course of study, with limited exceptions

M-1 Visa Duration and Extensions

Your stay in the U.S. on an M-1 visa includes:

  • The length of your training program
  • Plus 30 days for departure
  • Up to a maximum of one year initially, but extensions can be granted for up to a total of three years

To extend your M-1 status:

  • File Form I-539 with USCIS before your authorized stay expires
  • Submit a letter explaining the reason for extension and updated Form I-20 from your school

Can I Bring My Family on an M-1 Visa?

Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can accompany you under M-2 status. However, M-2 dependents:

  • Cannot work in the U.S.
  • Children may attend school but spouses may not study full-time

To bring your family, you'll need to provide additional documentation during your visa application process, including:

  • Marriage certificate (for spouse)
  • Birth certificates (for children)
  • Proof of sufficient funds to support your family during your stay

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