To apply for an M-1 visa, you will need to follow these general steps:
Receive acceptance from a SEVP-Certified School: Apply and get accepted into a vocational or non-academic program at a school that is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). The school will provide you with a Form I-20, which is a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.
Pay the SEVIS Fee: Before applying for the M-1 visa, you must pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee. This fee helps support the maintenance of the SEVIS program. You can pay the fee online through the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) SEVIS fee payment website.
Complete the DS-160 Form: Fill out the online DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application form. This form collects your personal information, background, and purpose of travel. Once completed, submit the form and print the confirmation page. You will need this page for the visa application process.
Schedule and Attend a Visa Interview: Schedule an appointment for a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. You will need to provide the required documents and attend the interview. The wait time for an interview appointment can vary, so it’s advisable to schedule it well in advance.
Prepare the Required Documents: Gather the necessary documents for your visa application. These may include:
Valid passport
Form I-20 issued by the SEVP-certified school
DS-160 confirmation page
SEVIS fee payment receipt
Financial documents showing your ability to cover tuition and living expenses
Academic transcripts or diplomas
English language proficiency test results (if applicable)
Any additional documents requested by the embassy or consulate
Attend the Visa Interview: On the day of your interview, arrive at the embassy or consulate on time. Present your documents, undergo biometric fingerprint scanning (if required), and answer questions related to your background, studies, and intentions. Be prepared to explain your plans and demonstrate your eligibility for the M-1 visa.
Visa Approval and Travel to the U.S.: If your visa application is approved, the consular officer will affix the visa sticker in your passport. Verify that the information on the visa is accurate. Once you receive your visa, you can make travel arrangements to the United States.
It’s important to note that the specific procedures and requirements may vary depending on the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. It’s recommended to visit their official website or contact them directly for detailed instructions and any additional requirements specific to your location.
