M1 visa meaning, requirements, age limit, study and work permit – Everything explained

Studying in the US is a dream for many students. It is a life-changing experience. You get to experience new cultures, interact with a global audience and get a high-quality education. But to make this dream come true, you will have to get your visa and the visa process can be challenging. This article will explain what the M1 visa is, what you need to apply, and how the application process works.

What is an M1 visa?

The M1 visa is a non-immigrant visa* only for international students like you who wish to study vocational or non-academic subjects in the United States. 

This visa allows you to gain specialised skills and training for your professional growth.

M1 visa means

Having an M1 visa means you are allowed to seek vocational training or other non-academic courses in the US. It allows you to live in the US temporarily while you study and gain skills that can advance your career.

*A non-immigrant visa is a permit that allows you to enter a country temporarily for a specific purpose. On the other hand, an immigrant visa allows you to live permanently in that country. The key difference is the duration of stay. A non-immigrant visa is used for a temporary visit and an immigrant visa allows for permanent residence. 

M1 visa requirements

To be eligible for an M1 visa, you will have to:

• Enrol in a full-time vocational or non-academic program at an accredited US institution.
• Show that you have enough funds to cover your tuition and living expenses.
• Prove that you plan to return to your home country after finishing your studies.

Edvoy is here to guide you through every step of your study in the US.

M1 visa age limit

There is no specific age limit for the M1 visa. As long as you meet the program’s academic and financial requirements, you’re good to go.

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M1 visa to work

The main purpose of the M1 visa is to study, because of which there are strict restrictions on working. 

If you are on an M1 visa, you are not allowed to work off-campus. However, some on-campus jobs might be allowed under certain conditions.

M1 visa work permit

Getting a work permit using an M1 visa is difficult. You might be able to apply for practical training in your field of study, but you'll need approval from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)^[1] and are subject to some restrictions.

To obtain a work permit, you will need to submit Form I-539^[2] and other required documents. Form I-539 is for application to extend or change your non-immigrant status. The application should be filed with the USCIS at least 90 days before the training start date.

Also read: H-1B visa meaning, eligibility and cost involved - Everything explained

M1 visa to study

The M1 visa is all about studying. It lets you pursue full-time vocational or non-academic courses, like technical courses, culinary arts, flight training, or other training programs.

You cannot switch to another academic program under an M1 visa and will have to stick to the course you have applied for in Form I-20.

Want to study in the US? Edvoy is here to help you from short-listing courses to your first day of the program.

Document checklist for an M1 visa

To apply for an M1 visa, you must have the following documents ready:

• Valid passport
• Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status)
• Completed Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application: DS-160 form^[3] 
• Visa application fee payment receipt
• Recent passport-sized photographs
• Proof of financial support
• Academic transcripts and diplomas
• SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee payment receipt

Ensure all documents are up-to-date

Keep multiple copies of each document

Keep the originals safe

Organise them in a logical order for ease of accessing them during the visa interview

Looking for guidance in one place? Right from selecting courses to uploading documents? Edvoy is here to help.

What is the cost of an M1 visa?

The cost of an M1 visa includes fees for:

• SEVIS fee: $350
• Visa application fee: $160 

Don't forget to budget for travel, health insurance, and tuition and living expenses too.

How to apply for an M1 visa?

Follow these steps to apply for an M1 visa:

• Get Form I-20 from the US institution you wish to enrol in
• Pay the SEVIS fee and fill out the DS-160 form
• Schedule an appointment at the US embassy or consulate in your home country
• Attend the visa interview. Carry all your documents and proof of financial support
• Wait for your visa approval and make travel arrangements to the US

Apply well in advance to avoid any delays due to the processing time

Make sure all your documents are correct and up-to-date

Be prepared to answer questions on your application, study plan, and financial situation during your visa interview

If you are wondering what mistakes to avoid during a US visa interview, read the entire article.

Studying in the US is an amazing opportunity. With the M1 visa, you can study and gain new skills in the US. Looking to study in the US? We are here to help.

Frequently asked questions

Can an M1 visa change to an F1 visa? 

Yes, you can apply to change your M1 visa to an F1 visa. For this, you will have to meet all F1 visa requirements and fill out Form I-539 with USCIS along with the required documents. Approval for a visa change depends on meeting all criteria and availability.

Can I change my plan in M1? 

No, you will have to stick to the course listed on your Form I-20 with an M1 visa. You cannot switch to a different program or major. Any change in your study plan will require a new M1 visa application.

Which visa can be converted to a green card? 

Visas like the F1 (student visa) and H1B (work visa) are easy pathways to a green card. However, converting an M1 visa to a green card is not easy and doesn't have a direct path. You can get a green card through employment-based immigration. This means you will have to first switch to another visa, like an H1B, and then apply for a green card through your employer.

How long does the M1 visa process take?

The M1 visa process takes a minimum of 4 weeks. It's important to apply early and ensure all documents are correct and complete.

How can I track my M1 visa application? 

You can track your M1 visa application status online. Visit the CEAC website. You can check your application status by entering your case number. Simply go to ceac.state.gov to access the status checker.

Can I work in the USA with an M1 visa? 

M1 visa holders can work only with special permission for practical training. This must be related to their field of study and approved by the Designated School Official (DSO). The training is limited to a maximum of six months.

What is the difference between an F-1 and M1 visa? 

F1 visas are for academic programs, while M1 visas are for vocational or technical training. F1 offers more flexibility in work and study options. M1 has stricter guidelines and limited work opportunities.

What is the success rate of the M1 visa? 

The success rate of M1 visas is generally high, provided all eligibility criteria are met. You must provide accurate and complete documents. 

Can I change my M1 visa to a green card? 

Directly changing from an M1 visa to a green card is hard. It's often easier to first switch to another visa type, like H1B. The process involves meeting specific criteria and steps.

How long can I stay in the USA with an M1 visa?

You can stay for the length of your course, plus 30 days. The maximum is usually one year. You will have to apply for extensions if needed.