Visa Type Series: Understanding the M-1 Visa Requirements

In this blog post, we'll navigate everything you need to know about the M-1 visa, making your journey to U.S. vocational training smooth and stress-free. This includes: • Understanding the M-1 Visa • Requirements, documents, and fees • Processing times • How outbound can simplify your journey Understanding the M-1 Visa: What is a M-1 Visa? The M-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa specifically designed for international students enrolling in vocational (non-academic) programs at SEVP-certified institutions in the U.S. These programs can equip you with valuable skills in diverse fields like cosmetology, culinary arts, flight training, or computer programming. Who Can Apply? To qualify for the M-1 visa, you must: 1. Be accepted into a full-time vocational program at a designated SEVP-certified school. 2. Demonstrate your financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses during your program. 3. Have strong ties to your home country, indicating your intention to return after completing your studies. Requirements, Documents, and Fees What you’ll need: • A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity beyond your intended stay in the U.S. (renewing your passport beforehand is recommended). • Form DS-160 confirmation page (nonimmigrant visa application). • I-20 issued by your school • SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee receipt • Acceptance letter from your U.S. school • Proof of financial resources to cover your program costs and living expenses. • Evidence of your home ties in your home country. • Medical examination results (if required by the U.S. embassy or consulate). • A recent passport-sized photograph. See Photo Requirements. How much does it cost to apply for a M-1 visa? There are two main fees associated with the M-1 visa application: • The M-1 visa application fee of US$185. • The SEVIS fee of US$350. Processing Times: Processing times for M-1 visas can vary depending on the workload at the U.S. embassy or consulate where you apply. It's generally recommended to apply well in advance of your program start date, aiming for at least 2-3 months beforehand. How can outbound help you with your M-1 visa application? Applying for a visa can seem daunting, but outbound is here to help! • Sleek, mobile friendly application forms to centralize all your information • Dedicated visa consultant to support and handle your application • Global consular services team to book and manage embassy appointments • 50% refund on service fees if your visa application is rejected Let outbound help you on your M-1 visa. Chat with us today.