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NONACADEMIC (M-1) VISA
A student wishing to pursue a course of study which is not principally academic in nature
at an established vocational or other recognized nonacademic institution, such
as a post secondary vocational or business school, requires an M-1 visa.
To learn how to apply for this visa.
WORK
It is possible in certain limited circumstances for the holder of an F-1 visa to
obtain permission to work in the United States. Holders of M-1 visas may only
engage in employment if it is a required part of their practical training and if
the employment has been approved in advance. The spouse and/or children of the
holder of an F-1 or M-1 visa may not work on derivative F-2 and M-2 visas; they
may, however, study at an academic institution.
To learn how to apply for this visa.
ENTRY & LENGTH OF STAY
The holder of a student F-1 or M-1 visa may enter the United States up to 30 days before the
designated registration date on the I-20A-B or I-20M. The 30-day limitation does
not apply to students returning to resume studies; they may enter the U.S. at
any time. The holder of an F-1 visa may remain in the United States for up to 60
days following the completion of the educational course on the I-20A-B. The
holder of an M-1 visa may remain in the United States for the period of time it
will take to complete the course of study as indicated on the I-20M plus 30 days,
or for one year, whichever is less.
SPOUSES, CHILDREN & PARTNERS
Spouses and/or children under the age of 21 who wish to accompany or join the principal visa
holder in the United States for the duration of his/her stay apply for
derivative F-2 or M-2 visas. The application procedure is the same; separate
forms I-20A-B or M-N will be required for each applicant. If applying at a later
date, a copy of the principal's visa must also be furnished with the application.
Spouses and/or children who do not intend to reside in the United States with the principal
visa holder, but visit for vacations only, may be eligible to apply for
visitor B-2 visas, or if qualified, travel visa free under the
Visa Waiver Program.
Partners and common-law spouses should follow this link for
further information.
F-2/M-2 VERSUS F-1
The spouse and/or children of an F-1 or M-1 visa holder may study on an F-2 or M-2 visa.
However, if they are qualified, they may apply for the F-1 visa. If you have
school age children, you should refer to the regulations governing the issuance
of F-1 visas.
WORKING ON AN F-2/M-2 VISA
The holder of a derivative F-2 or M-2 visa may not work. If he or she is seeking employment,
the appropriate work visa is required.
I WANT TO STUDY IN THE UNITED STATES, WHAT DO I DO NEXT?
You need to apply for admission to a school or academic institution. Upon acceptance into
the program, the institution will provide you with the Form I-20A-B
Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant F-1 Student Status
- For Academic or Language Students or I-20M-N,
Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant M-1 Student Status Form. Schools and institutions that
have received United States government approval to enroll foreign students have the authority
to issue these forms. The I-20A-B or I-20M-N is not valid for travel unless
accompanied by a valid visa. To apply for an F or M visa.
PLEASE NOTE
No assurances regarding the issuance of visas can be given in advance. Therefore final travel
plans or the purchase of nonrefundable tickets should not be made until a visa
has been issued.
DO YOU HAVE A VALID F-1/M-1 VISA?
If you have a valid F-1 or M-1 visa you may continue to use it provided you arrive in
the United States before the expiration date on your visa and you carry with you
a valid I-20A-B, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student status from
an educational institution.
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