An M1 visa is a type of U.S. student visa designated for non-academic or vocational studies. If
you're planning to attend a recognized vocational or other non-academic institution in the United
States, this visa allows you to pursue your educational goals. Here's a brief overview:
Key Features of the M1 Visa:
1. Eligibility:
Intended for students who wish to attend a non-academic or vocational school,
like technical institutes, flight schools, culinary institutes, or beauty schools.
2. Duration:
M1 visa holders can stay in the U.S. for the duration of their program plus a 30-
day grace period.
Total stay cannot exceed one year unless extended due to medical reasons.
3. Restrictions:
Employment is limited. M1 visa holders can only work on campus and for a
limited number of hours.
No employment authorization is provided off-campus unless through practical
training relevant to the course.
Transferring to another school requires USCIS approval within the first six
months.
4. Dependents:
Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may accompany the M1 visa holder on
an M2 visa.
M2 dependents cannot work or study except for elementary or secondary school.
5. Practical Training:
After completing their course, M1 visa holders can engage in practical training for
up to six months if it is directly related to their studies.
Differences Between M1 and F1 Visas:
M1 Visa:
For vocational or non-academic programs.
Employment is strictly limited.
F1 Visa:
For academic programs.
Allows for more extensive employment opportunities, including OPT (Optional
Practical Training) and CPT (Curricular Practical Training).
Understanding these points will help you decide if the M1 visa is the appropriate choice based on
your educational goals.
A K-1 visa, also known as a fiancé(e) visa, allows the foreign fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen
to enter the United States to marry their U.S. citizen partner. Here is a concise overview:
Eligibility Requirements:
The U.S. citizen must demonstrate a bona fide relationship with the foreign fiancé(e).
The couple must have met in person within the last two years unless a waiver is
granted for cultural/religious reasons.
Both parties must intend to marry within 90 days of the foreign fiancé(e) entering the
U.S.
After Arrival in the U.S.:
1. The couple must marry within 90 days of the fiancé(e)’s arrival.
2. The foreign spouse can apply for a green card (permanent residency) by filing
Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).
Key Considerations:
1. Children under 21 may be eligible for K-2 visas to accompany their parent.
2. If denied, applicants can address the reasons and reapply or appeal.
3. Processing times vary but generally take several months.
O-1 Visa Overview
Types:
O-1A: For individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, education, business, or
athletics.
O-1B: For individuals with extraordinary ability in the arts, or extraordinary achievement
in the motion picture or television industry.
Eligibility Criteria
O-1A:
Must demonstrate extraordinary ability in science, education, business, or athletics.
Requires sustained national or international acclaim.
Evidence includes significant awards, membership in exclusive associations, original
contributions, etc.
O-1B:
Additional Considerations
O-2 Visa: For essential support personnel accompanying an O-1 visa holder.
O-3 Visa: For spouses and children (under 21) of O-1 visa holders.
Period of Stay: Initial stay up to 3 years, with extensions in one-year increments.
Dual Intent: O-1 visa holders may pursue a green card while on an O-1 visa.
Notable Advantages
No annual cap or limit on the number of visas issued.
Possible to change employers by filing a new petition.