Student Visas (M-1 & M-2)

An M-1 Visa is meant to give you the opportunity to study in a non-academic program such as vocational training in the United States.  

In order to qualify for a student visa, you must go to a program that has at least 12 hours a week.  The M-1 Visa is valid for up to one year.  It can be extended up to an additional 2 years, making a total of 3 years.   

At the conclusion of your program you are allowed practical training, which means that you are allowed to work in your area of study.  Depending on the length of your study, you are allowed to work up to one year.    

If you obtain an M-1 Visa, you are allowed to bring your spouse and children under 21 years old under an M-2 Visa; however they are not allowed to work.  Children may attend school, but not beyond high school.