M-1 Visa Attorneys in Skokie
Representing Vocational Students Pursuing Educational Opportunities in the U.S.
International students who wish to pursue non-academic educational opportunities in the U.S. can take advantage of the M-1 visa. Unlike the F-1 student visa that requires applicants to be pursuing academic studies, the M-1 visa is granted to vocational students.
Vocational studies include:
- Mechanical studies
- Technical studies
- Language programs
- Cooking classes
- Cosmetology programs
- Flight school
At Gambacorta Law, we are passionate about helping international students pursue their dreams and get the education they need. We can help you apply for an M-1 visa and improve your chances of approval.
Contact our M-1 lawyers in Skokie by calling (847) 443-9303.
Qualifying for the M-1 Visa
To obtain an M-1 visa, you must first be accepted into a vocational institution that has been approved by USCIS and enrolled in a full course of study. When applying to a vocational institution, make sure to check whether they accept international students.
You must also:
- Be able to speak, read, and understand English without enrolling in an intensive language program
- Have enough money to cover at least your first year of study
- Have a permanent residence in your home country
- Intend to leave the United States once you have completed your vocational program
The Application Process
If you have been accepted into a program of study, the school will send you Form I-20 to complete and submit. Make an appointment with your nearest U.S. consulate to apply and pay the mandatory SEVIS fee.
You may also have to supply:
- Your transcript, degrees, or certificates you have received
- Test scores such as TOEFL, SAT, GRE, or GMAT
- Proof that you intend to leave the U.S. after completing your studies
- Proof of your financial ability to live and study in the U.S.
If you are between the ages of 14 and 79, you will have to undergo an interview with an immigration official. There is no way of knowing exactly how long it will take to schedule an interview appointment, so apply for your M-1 as early as possible.
If you receive an M-1 visa, there is no defined period of stay. You may remain in the U.S. for the duration of your course of study.
You may bring your spouse and your unmarried children under the age of 21 to the U.S. with you on an M-2 derivative visa.
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To learn more about M-1 visas and whether you are eligible for one, call Gambacorta Law at (847) 443-9303.
